‘’I have been working in care now for 12 years. The main reason I started supporting people was my brother. He experienced mental health challenges, and I wanted to be there for him and his needs. I learned to be more patient, in control of my emotions, and more mindful in my approach.’’
“It’s important to have understanding and empathy, but at the same time, to control your emotions. As a support worker, you need to be strong, but not just physically and mentally. There are a lot of things that we go through that have not been taken into account mentally, and you have to be resilient.”
Richie says
Meet Sylvester Ozua
Working for almost 10 years in Nurseline Community Services, the vast experiences changed Richie’s perspective on providing the right care. From 14-hour shifts, very long days spent in care, he felt he could give so much more, and support people with multiple needs in complex situations. He thinks his days are now more challenging and equally fulfilling, saying,‘’ You never know what to expect. It’s very unpredictable, but I feel like this role and the company have developed me as a person. When I go home at night and I feel like I’ve done a good job, it’s a good feeling.’’
One thing that is paramount to Richie is teamwork, and the ability to be part of a team, think as one, and provide support as one. He highlights the importance of realising that his opinion matters equally as other people’s opinions in the team, discussing things openly and honest with the team and trying to come to a collective decision for the well-being of the people they serve.
In his own words ‘’I think just having somebody that I know is relying on me to provide, to guide, to teach it keeps me going, no matter what I go through in my life. I know I have people who rely on me and need me. ’’
