In our latest Instalment of Support Worker Spotlight, we sat down with one of our fantastic employees who has been with us right from the beginning. Rhianna joined the team just over 12 months ago with no paid Support Worker experience. In this time, she has learnt to overcome personal barriers, learnt a lot about herself and has proved to be a really valuable asset to our team (and an awesome human being!).

Read on to hear about Rhianna's journey into Disability Support.

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​Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m from a country town near Wagga Wagga, I moved to Wollongong, where I live now, about 6 years ago. Having spent a lot of time with my family and my 3 younger brothers who all have disabilities, I thought disability support would be a great career path and it’s a sector that I’ve always wanted to work in.

Did you have any experience in Disability Support before starting at NNA Direct Support Service?

Besides my lived experience with my brothers, I didn’t have any paid experience working as a Support Worker before starting at NNA Direct Support. But I have learnt so much on the job, from developing new skills to building relationships and confidence – it’s been one of the best career decisions I’ve ever made.

What do you like most about working with NNA Direct Support Service?

I’m a casual worker so the flexibility is great. I have a second job which I can work my shifts around each week.

How many clients do you usually work with?

At the moment I have two clients I work with on a regular basis, which works out to be around 20 hours a week.

What is your favourite part of your work?

Building connections with people and just being there for them – whether it is physical, emotional or moral support.

I also have learnt a huge amount over the last year since I started out in support work. I have learnt so much about various disabilities and how to care for people who live with different disabilities – which are two different but important aspects to the job.

What does a typical day at work look like?

It varies each day, but typically my day involves domestic duties, helping my customers get ready for work and taking them to the train station. Other days we’ll venture out to the beach or if it’s raining, we’ll bake a cake or watch a movie. It’s really varied work, but I love it. Of course, we have our hard days, but my job is just to be there for my customers and be part of their support system.

What would be your advice to yourself 12 months ago?

If I could turn back time and give myself one piece of advice it would be not to be scared. Just because there are ‘bad days’ doesn’t mean that’s always the case! I have way more good days than bad.

My advice to others thinking about becoming a Disability Support Worker would be to step out of your comfort zone because it’s one of the most rewarding careers where you can really grow as a person. I’ve changed A LOT in the last 12 months (and for the better!).

I used to be super shy, but I feel that becoming a Disability Support Worker has really helped me come out of my shell. I’ve grown so much in confidence over the last year and I attribute much of that to the job and the people I’ve met along the way.

Can you see yourself working in the sector long-term?

Yes, I can see myself building a career in Disability Support. Since becoming a Support Worker, I have never looked back!

Would you recommend NNA Direct Support Service?

Yes! NNA Direct Support Service is the best environment, particularly mentally and emotionally – the team is always there for you. If you are having a bad day, there is always someone to talk to and they always make the effort to check in regularly to see how you are.

Thinking about becoming a Disability Support Worker? Or looking for your next rewarding career opportunity? Get in touch to enquire about joining our friendly team.