From Support Worker to Team Leader in six months: Matthew’s story at Lifeways

Well, here at Lifeways, as a part of our continuous development, our colleagues’ skills don’t go unnoticed. We understand and know how to spot leadership qualities and other values that can be used to improve the quality of our services. 

We develop our colleagues to reach their potential and provide the opportunities best suited to them.  Matthew Hughes, Team Leader, first joined our team as a Support Worker under 6 months ago is a glowing example of growth and development within Lifeways. 

No previous experience

Matthew, who started working for Lifeways just over six months ago, had no previous experience in supporting adults with complex needs. However, through transferable skills, the right attitude, and natural compassion, he was given the position of Support Worker. Before starting Lifeways he worked in various jobs since leaving University including teaching English in South Korea, working in a bespoke bed shop, and managing a bridal shop. Matthew was then recommended the role by a friend.  

"I spoke with my friend who knew of Lifeways and he recommended the company. I then saw the promotional video on the company’s website and I loved the ethos and knew I wanted to apply to work here. 

Desire to progress

In my interview, I had expressed a desire to eventually progress to Team Leader and to learn everything about support work that I could. Shortly after, I joined Lifeways I briefly covered the Team Leader when they were out of office. I had picked up the role of support quite quickly in his absence. I naturally assumed aspects of the role to keep the place running smoothly.  My hard work and leadership skills were soon spotted by the service manager who offered me the role of Team leader. I had picked up the role of support quite quickly. I’ve learned how to extend my compassion and understanding to people in society that I wouldn’t normally have the chance to interact with". 

As a Team Leader, the responsibilities vary from day to day. It is his role to set an example to the team and make sure they are providing top notch support. Matthew makes sure the service is running smoothly and the people we support are happy and are supported with their daily needs.  

Nominated

Matthew was put forward for the role by Lifeways Service Manager, Michael Williams, who also nominated Matthew for an XO Award. Our Lifeways XO Awards recognise Lifeways colleagues who highlight how we provide extraordinary support as standard, every single day.  

“Matthew has been a breath of fresh air to Lifeways. He gave a brilliant interview for a Support a Worker role, then came into a service that was down a Team Leader. He very quickly learned how the service runs and showed strong leadership skills by motivating others and delegating tasks to the existing staff team. This is a very difficult feat, to assume some sort of leadership over a service when you’re not only new to the organisation but new to the industry. Matt has had many compliments from other staff, the people we support, family, and professionals.  

Matt seems very keen to learn when spending time with his service manager. Matt has fantastic communication, organisation, and IT skills. Matt’s work ethic and positive attitude are infectious!” 

To see how you can progress within Lifeways, head over to our careers page.