National Careers Week: Tracy’s Story

4th – 9th March 2024 marks National Careers Week, a week promoting career guidance across the UK.

With the intent to inspire people to pursue a career in care, we spoke to Tracy, our Head of Positive Behaviour Support to mark the week. The care sector is one of the few sectors where jobs are increasing, so with lots of different roles and plenty of opportunities to progress, Social Care is a great career option.

Tracy started work with Real Life Options in 1997 as a support worker, supporting adults with learning disabilities and complex support needs. Throughout her career, Real Life Options have been keen to support Tracy to develop her skills, knowledge and professional development. Fast forward to today and Tracy has gained a Master of Science in Positive Behaviour Support.

Talking about her degree, Tracy says, “I’ve always had an interest in supporting people with more complex needs, so during Covid, I decided to do it.” Studying at the University of Kent, Tracy completed her degree at the Tizard Centre which is renowned for being a leading UK academic centre researching in autism, learning disability and community care. At Real Life Options we understand how important it is for staff to feel fully supported and valued, and we encourage staff to learn and develop in a way that is right for them. Whilst still working full time, Real Life Options supported Tracy to complete her degree.

Using what she has learnt alongside her knowledge and experience, Tracy will play a key part in developing training and coaching for all different staff levels across Real Life Options. Tracy says she hopes to use what she’s learned from her degree to “develop a positive behavioural support (PBS) culture in the organisation.” This person-centred approach will continue to aid us in meeting the needs and aspirations of the people we support and enhance their quality of life.

Tracy says “I have had a long career in Social Care in various settings and positions. Whilst it presents its challenges it is equally rewarding. There isn’t a day goes by where I think I should have chosen a different career path.”

“For anyone who sees Social Care as a job with no opportunities I would ask you to think again. Social Care requires both academic and emotional intelligence which many people in the sector have in abundance, it just sometimes goes unrecognised.”

We’re always looking for extraordinary individuals to support exceptional people. If you are looking for a rewarding career where you’re making a real difference to people’s lives, check out our vacancies here.