Advice to new support workers from old support workers
Real Advice from Experienced Support Workers The following advice comes directly from experienced support workers. These are real insights, shared to help new workers navigate the challenges of the job. Support work is incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with its own unique pressures. Learning from those who have been in the field can make all the difference. Document everything —it protects you. Don’t assume a client knows how to do something—always check and support them as needed. If you go off script (e.g., making decisions that aren’t yours to make), the responsibility falls on you, not management. Label everything if you want it to come home. Avoid wearing your best clothes to work—they will get stained. There will be a lot of paperwork, so staying organized is key. Keeping on top of everything is challenging, but it’s an important part of the role. Listen to experienced staff , but don’t be afraid to bring fresh ideas to the table. You don’t “own” shifts or cli...