blog.gov.je
Michael, a senior healthcare assistant with the Government of Jersey’s Adult Residential Service, has spent over 35 years supporting individuals with learning disabilities to live fulfilling lives.
With decades of experience, his commitment to the role remains strong. “I’m passionate about supporting people with learning disabilities,” he explains. “Being part of this service allows me to make a positive contribution to their everyday life.”
A varied and rewarding role
Working in frontline care means no two days are the same. Michael’s role involves a wide range of responsibilities, from helping individuals achieve a personal milestone to supporting them at medical appointments and within the local community.
“My role is incredibly varied, which is one of the things I enjoy most about it,” he says. “One day I might be supporting someone to achieve a personal goal, another I’m helping with health appointments or supporting them in the local community.”
On a day-to-day basis, Michael provides direct support in individuals’ own homes, assisting with activities of daily living, promoting independence and supporting physical health. His responsibilities include administering medication, following multi-disciplinary guidance whilst maintaining accurate records.
“Seeing the people we support develop confidence and achieve things that matter to them is incredibly rewarding. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities”
Working collaboratively to deliver quality care
Michael works closely within a small team and alongside the Adult Learning Disability Multidisciplinary Team when needed, to ensure high-quality, person-centred care is delivered.
“As a senior healthcare assistant, I support my colleagues and we share knowledge and experience,” he explains. “That helps us maintain high standards and deliver the best possible care.”
He values the strong team around him. “I feel very privileged to work alongside such dedicated colleagues who share the same compassionate, person-centred approach,” he adds.
Making a meaningful difference
Seeing individuals grow in confidence and independence is one of the most rewarding parts of Michael’s work.
“Seeing the people we support develop confidence and achieve things that matter to them is incredibly rewarding,” he says. “Every day brings new challenges and opportunities.”
Michael was inspired to pursue a career in public service by a desire to make a meaningful difference. “I wanted a career where I could help others and support those facing additional challenges,” he explains.
Through his career, he has developed extensive experience supporting individuals with a wide range of needs. “Knowing that my work can have a positive impact on someone’s day continues to motivate and inspire me,” he adds.
Skills, growth and personal impact
The role has supported both Michael’s professional and personal development.
“Professionally, I’ve developed communication, leadership and problem-solving skills,” he says. “Personally, it’s taught me patience, empathy and resilience.”
He also highlights the importance of supporting individuals to live within their own homes. “Having their own home gives people greater choice, control and privacy,” he explains. “It allows support to be tailored to their individual needs and helps them feel part of the local community.”
Challenges and resilience
Balancing complex needs while promoting independence is one of the key challenges of the role. Michael explains: “Our service operates various shift patterns, to enable us to provide continuous support to the people we care for.”
Working shift pattern brings diversity to each day and offers opportunities to develop resilience, adaptability, and a broad range of skills. “You need to stay focused, responsive, and person-centred throughout your shift, particularly when supporting individuals with complex needs,” he says. “It’s rewarding to know that the support we provide makes a real difference in people’s lives.”
Despite these challenges, the work remains deeply rewarding. “The most fulfilling part is seeing people grow, develop and achieve their goals,” Michael adds. “Every achievement, no matter how small, is worth celebrating.”
A meaningful experience
One memorable experience involved transforming a service user’s living space into a calming, personalised environment.
“Getting to know their preferences helped us create a space where they felt comfortable and safe,” he explains. “We used soft greens and natural tones with a nature inspired theme to reflect their interests.”
For Michael, this highlighted the importance of understanding each individual. “Sometimes making a real difference comes from understanding what truly matters to someone and helping create an environment where they can thrive,” he reflects.
“Having their own home gives people greater choice, control and privacy. It allows support to be tailored to their individual needs and helps them feel part of the local community”
Advice for future public servants
Michael encourages anyone considering a career in public services to approach the role with compassion and an open mind.
“Public services can be challenging, but it’s one of the most rewarding careers you can choose,” he says. “Every day brings opportunities to make a positive difference.”
He also emphasises the importance of learning. “Be willing to learn from the people you support as well as your colleagues,” he adds. “Strong communication and a genuine desire to help others are key.”
The importance of teamwork
Collaboration is central to Michael’s role, involving close work with colleagues, healthcare professionals and the individuals he supports.
“Effective communication and teamwork are essential,” he says. “It helps create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued.”
Building trust is at the heart of person-centred care. “Strong relationships enable us to provide the best possible support,” he explains.
Ultimately, it is this shared purpose that drives him forward. “Knowing that I’m part of a dedicated and supportive team gives me confidence and motivation every day,” Michael reflects.
