In 2021, my daughter Penny was born. Early in my wife’s pregnancy, we learned that Penny had Down Syndrome.

This prompted me to learn more about people with disabilities, the lives they live, and the amazing things they can achieve with the right support from family and staff.

At the time, I was working from home and looking for a change, but I struggled to find a clear career path. As Penny grew older, I began thinking more about her future and how to best support her so she would have the same opportunities as her siblings and anyone else. While browsing careers and courses online one evening, I came across a Care Skills (QQI Level 5) course, and something immediately clicked. After completing the course, I took a role in Home Care to gain experience. Although I enjoyed the work and the people I supported, I knew I wanted to work specifically with people with disabilities, which led me to apply to Corlann.

I was thrilled to be offered an interview, despite worrying about my lack of experience. The interview went very well and left me feeling that something important was happening. When I received the call offering me the job, I couldn’t say yes fast enough — and I haven’t looked back since.

I studied Archaeology at college but didn’t complete my degree, eager instead to see the world. I went on to work as a barman and later in office, customer support and data analyst roles, both in Ireland and abroad. I’ve always been happiest in customer-facing roles, but when Covid led me to work from home, I realised something was missing. Becoming a Support Worker has completely changed my mindset, and I now know I could never return to desk-based work.

A typical day starts after I drop my children to school. I work in the day centre or residential home, reviewing notes from colleagues to stay informed about any tasks or behaviours to be aware of. At the day centre, individuals arrive throughout the morning, and I support them in settling in and reviewing their schedules. Schedules are a vital grounding tool in both settings, helping people understand what their day will look like.

Activities vary depending on individual interests and may include art projects, walks into town, local outings, or simply sitting to chat over a cup of tea. This variety keeps each day interesting, and plans can always change based on how someone is feeling. Ultimately, the day is organised around allowing people to enjoy the type of day they want to have.

The Corlann ethos is reflected daily in how we advocate for the people we support and encourage them to advocate for themselves, whether in the day centre or out in the community.

Practical benefits such as the pension scheme and paid leave aligned with my children’s school holidays also supported my decision to join Corlann.

What truly sets Corlann apart is the care staff take in getting to know each individual. Understanding someone goes beyond reading a file — it’s about learning what makes them unique. The people we support become a meaningful part of our lives, as we share both the good times and the challenges. This sense of connection is what makes the role feel less like a job and more like an extension of family.

One area I particularly enjoy is supporting Valued Social Roles, which help individuals stay connected to their local community while pursuing their own interests. Being part of these activities allows me to see first-hand how people thrive when given the right opportunities.