01550 760400Iolo started as a Support Worker when he returned home after three years at university. He knew he wanted to do something more fulfilling but wasn’t sure if he had the skills or experience to work in care.
Iolo said,
“I received a wide range of training and I was fortunate to be surrounded by supportive and experienced staff who helped me learn. Since starting 8 months ago, I’ve grown in confidence and built strong relationships with the students and staff here.”
Our main site near Rhandirmwyn includes several houses, an education hub, workshops, gardens, a gym, and even a smallholding with animals. As well as the day-to-day activities described by Iolo, Support Workers get involved in evening and weekend outings. These can include shopping, swimming, bowling, trips to the beach - it's a very varied role.
Working in Ty Pickwick
Iolo works in a house called Ty Pickwick, which supports seven residents. A typical shift for Iolo runs from 07:00 to 16:00. He finds one of the best parts of working this shift is the opportunity to spend time with residents between sessions.
“The job is extremely fulfilling, and it’s amazing to see the progress individuals make in their independence and confidence over time. Watching someone succeed at something they once struggled with is a constant reminder of why I chose to work here.”
Staff arrive at 07:00, while most of the students are still asleep. This gives them around 15–20 minutes to have breakfast together, catch up and find out who they’ll be supporting that day. It’s a nice, relaxed way to start the shift.
The day begins
At around 07:20, staff begin knocking on bedroom doors and saying, “good morning”. Some residents may already be awake and in the kitchen area, while others need encouragement to get up and start their day, something many of us can relate to!
Staff support residents with their morning routines, which can include washing, tidying their rooms, and taking laundry to the laundry room before breakfast.
“Independence is a key part of our philosophy. Staff always encourage residents to do as much as possible for themselves, offering support where needed. Seeing someone achieve something independently for the first time is incredibly rewarding. This could be anything from making their own drink, helping prepare food, or even learning to tie their own shoelaces.”
After getting dressed, residents come into the kitchen for breakfast. Many prepare their own food independently, while staff may help cook things like eggs, porridge, or pancakes if requested.
Residents also have small morning chores that help maintain the house. Sometimes they need encouragement but with support they usually complete them. These jobs might include changing bedding, putting breakfast items away, or hoovering the shoe room.
After chores, some residents take their medication and everyone brushes their teeth. Staff support with medication where required and assist residents with personal care if needed.
Once the morning routines are finished, staff may complete additional checks and paperwork, such as fridge temperature checks or audits. There is also time to spend with residents before they head off to their education sessions at around 09:20. This might involve chatting over a cup of tea or playing a quick game of Uno, which can become surprisingly competitive.
Supporting throughout the morning
Sometimes staff from the house attend education sessions with residents to provide support, which is a great way to interact with people from other houses.
Morning sessions finish at 12:00, when staff collect residents who require support and bring them back for lunch. Staff and residents usually eat together, and afterwards everyone helps tidy up. After lunch there is usually some time to socialise with residents or complete house tasks before they return to afternoon sessions. Residents return from sessions at 15:00 on Mondays and 16:00 from Tuesday to Friday.
Staff typically finish their shift at 16:00 or 16:30.
Iolo has found working at Elidyr Communities a positive experience, with plenty of training available to learn new skills. He said,
“If you’re looking for a rewarding role where you can make a real difference in people’s lives while working as part of a supportive team, this is a fantastic place to work.”
