We’re so proud of the ambitious and creative support our teams provide every day. Working alongside people who are so passionate, motivated and empathetic can only be described as a privilege. Joanna is someone who truly exemplifies these qualities. 

Based in Surrey and working in the newly established Community Inclusion and Activities Team, Joanna supported people to grow in confidence as they began to reconnect to their communities after the pandemic. Seeing people flourish and thrive is what motivates Joanna most. She loves supporting people to make their own decisions and find their own fulfilment. 

Joanna’s role as a Community Support Worker is wide ranging. From helping people learn to cook, to supporting them to be active citizens, Joanna always stays mindful of what really brings people joy. 

Someone who has felt the impact of Joanna’s work is Jo, who moved into her home as the pandemic started. Jo found the lockdowns difficult at first and was so anxious that she didn’t even want to leave her bedroom – the place where she felt most safe. Through thoughtful support and gentle encouragement from Joanna and Jo’s team, Jo began feeling more comfortable, especially during time spent with Joanna in the kitchen. 

Jo now really enjoys her trips with Joanna, especially when she can be out in nature, and her mental health has greatly improved. The change in Jo from when she first moved in and didn’t feel able to leave her room, to now where she regularly takes part in a local book club and loves spending time outdoors at National Trust gardens, is astonishing. 

It’s a transformation that would not have been possible without the dedicated support of Joanna and the rest of the support team. 

When we asked Joanna what she would say to other support workers who are keen to try new things, she told us: 

“If you have an idea, try it. Talk with people you support, talk to your colleagues and be proactive about it. You don’t know what will happen unless you try - the outcome could be incredibly rewarding for many.” 

"Sometimes someone’s abilities can be overlooked – my aim is to challenge people’s perceptions of disability, while supporting people to find engaging activities that are meaningful to them." – Joanna.