Merseyside
What Dillon does as a support worker
Dillon has worked with Best Lives for several years. His support worker role in supported living is varied and focused on care. Every shift brings something new, and for Dillon, that is exactly what makes the job rewarding.
Starting the day right
Dillon works 12-hour shifts, often at one of the supported living bungalows at Thingwall Hall. Each day begins with personal care, medication, and breakfast, followed by helping tenants get ready for the day ahead.
“Every day is different,” he explains. “It depends on who you are supporting and what their routine looks like. Some days I am supporting people I know well. Other times I need to take a bit of time to learn their preferences.”
To stay on top of everything, Dillon breaks his day into structured sections. The morning focuses on preparation. The rest of the day is dedicated to meals, activities, and appointments. He also manages essential tasks like cleaning, logging medication, and updating records using our digital care management system.
“Personal care might sound daunting, but it’s not a big deal. It’s easy once you get into it – and it’s just part of helping someone live well.”
Dillon, Support Worker at Best Lives
Moments that matter
One of Dillon’s fondest memories involves a day spent with a tenant who has since passed away.
“We went to Liverpool Shopping Park,” he remembers. “We visited Pets at Home, had a look around the shops, walked home, and stopped at the pub so he could enjoy some time to relax and have a treat.”
What Dillon remembers most is the way the tenant lit up during the trip. “He was talking to people and really enjoying himself. It was lovely to see him relaxed and confident. He didn’t have close family, so being able to help him feel included and at ease meant a lot.”
Each person’s support is based on their specific needs and interests. That might mean going to the cinema or just heading out for a walk. Dillon adapts to each individual to ensure their day feels meaningful.
Staying calm and building confidence
Dillon has supported people through a wide range of experiences, including moments of medical need. One person he supports has epilepsy, and Dillon recently had to respond to a seizure.
“At first it was unexpected, but I stayed calm, followed my training, and made sure he had the support he needed. It gave me confidence for any future episodes.”
He also supports someone who sometimes shows challenging behaviours. “It’s about understanding the signs and knowing how to respond in a way that is calm and respectful. You cannot take it personally. Patience and consistency make a big difference.”
Why teamwork matters
Dillon believes that working well with others is a vital part of supported living jobs. It is not just about getting along. It is about being clear and accountable.
Effective communication is key to delivering safe support. Tools like our care management system help ensure everything is clearly recorded, from medications to appointments. This ensures the whole team stays informed and coordinated.
“You get along with your team and trust them to get the job done, but that’s when things can get missed. That’s why communication is so important.”
Dillon, Support Worker at Best Lives
Finding balance and looking ahead
Dillon appreciates the flexibility of his role. Working three long days gives him time to see family and friends. He often finishes a shift by heading home with his best friend, who also works at Best Lives.
He is currently working towards his Level 3 in Health and Social Care and hopes to move into a lead support worker role in the future. “I have been put forward for an award before, and I know I have still got more to give. I am building the experience I need to take the next step.”
His passion for care began at a young age when he helped support his grandad through illness. Today, he brings that same compassion to every person he supports, just around the corner from where he grew up.
Looking for care careers in Liverpool where the work really matters? See what opportunities are available at Best Lives.