Meet our festive team member!
This December, Step Up’s support workers have had a new partner tagging along with them on their daily routines: Elf on the Shelf! Our special Elf helper has been out and about with our team and young people, showcasing what a day in the life of a support worker at Step Up looks like.
Day 1 – Helping out with the weekly shop!
Today our Elf was off to the supermarket to get in the weekly shop. Our support workers help our young people with their shopping, from joining them on their shopping trips to helping plan and budget.
For some young people, simply having a support worker accompany them on their visit to the shop can make a big difference and help build their confidence.
Beyond practical assistance, our support workers also help young people develop essential skills in planning and budgeting for their shopping needs. They can work with them to create shopping lists based on their dietary needs and preferences, and compare prices to make informed decisions.
This hands-on approach builds financial literacy and empowers our young people to make responsible purchasing choices, and take a step towards living independently.
Day 2 – Hitting the roads and learning to drive!
Beep, beep! Today our Elf helper is out on the roads with our support workers!
Obtaining a driver’s license is a significant milestone in many young people’s lives, opening doors to newfound independence, employment opportunities, and improved access to education and social activities.
At Step Up, support workers help guide our young people through the process of obtaining a driver’s license, providing them with the personalised support, encouragement, and resources they need to succeed.
Passing their driving test and getting a license allows our young people to access new job opportunities, pursue educational goals such as college or university, and connect with friends and family without relying on transportation limitations. Learning to drive can be a catalyst for independence, allowing them to take control of their lives and pursue their aspirations with greater confidence.
Day 3 – Helping out in the kitchen
Our Elf helper has put on his chef hat today to give our support workers a helping hand in the kitchen.
Cooking and other life skills are essential for independent living. By supporting our young adults with cooking, meal planning, and budgeting, our support workers can help them develop the skills they need to live on their own.
Being able to successfully cook a meal, balance a budget, or complete other household tasks can boost their self-esteem and confidence, which can lead to other positive outcomes in their lives.
Day 4 – Braving the snow for a walk and catch-up
Today our Elf helper has wrapped up warm to join our support workers on some walks and outdoor activities.
Our support workers regularly accompany our young people on walks, to get them out of the house and active. Being outside and away from home can provide our young people with the space they need to talk about what they’ve been up to, any problems or challenges they are facing, or even share their successes. Our support workers are there to listen, offer guidance, and celebrate their accomplishments.
Having some scheduled time away from home is extremely important. These shared experiences and conversations during outings can help build trust, develop social skills, and reduce feelings of isolation.
Day 5 – Tagging along for a festive lunch!
Today our Elf helper joined our support workers for a festive lunch!
Our support workers frequently join our young people for a spot of lunch or grab a coffee with them to have a catch-up.
These outings can provide our young people with a break from the challenges they may be facing, allowing them to socialise and enjoy a meal. These informal check-ins provide a safe space for the young people to share their worries or updates about how things have been going. Our support workers are there to listen and provide advice and encouragement.
Taking young people out for lunch or coffee is a valuable part of Step Up’s support services. It serves as a way to build rapport, foster social skills, promote independence, and provide sometimes much-needed respite.
Support workers at Step Up have a broad range of responsibilities, and take part in a range of activities that help our young people develop their skills and confidence, enabling them to live independently. As we celebrate our 10 Year Anniversary, we’re delighted to showcase what our team get up to, and how their works makes a positive difference to the lives of the young people we support.
