For Alyn Pickett, support work is about more than just a daily routine. It is about building lasting relationships within a local community.
Alyn has been a familiar face in Barry since joining Innovate Trust over a decade ago. With a career in care dating back to 2004, he brings a wealth of experience and a steady, patient presence to his team.
His experience highlights the importance of support worker training and development, showing how continuous learning, flexible training, and hands-on experience help staff deliver high-quality supported living services.
You have been part of the team in Barry for over a decade. How did your journey with Innovate Trust begin?
Alyn: I have been in support work for a long time, since 2004 at least, but I officially joined Innovate Trust in October 2012.
I work in the same house I started in, so I’m a very long-term member of the team here.
When I first joined, the “meet and greet” process was incredibly effective.
It gave me a real chance to get to know the people I was going to be supporting, meet my new colleagues, and familiarise myself with the home setting.
I found that personal introduction to the environment really useful.
You have seen a lot of changes in the industry. How do you find the training and development here?
Alyn: It is definitely evolved! In the early days, everything was on paper, but I find the online training we have now especially useful.
It keeps you updated and automatically lets you know when you need a refresher course.
Because we do shift work, our spare time can be a bit irregular.
Being able to do the training online in your own time, as and when you can, is much more convenient and effective than traditional classroom-style learning.
It helps us all keep our skills sharp to fulfil our roles properly.
What do you think is the secret to a successful team in a support setting?
Alyn: Communication and respect are everything. It is so important to be able to approach anybody, whether it is a colleague or your manager, for advice or help.
You will need to ask for help at some point and knowing you can do that is vital.
I also think sticking to routines within the home and respecting each other’s needs makes a huge difference.
We work best when we work together, and that includes feeling able to voice your ideas. If you see a change that could benefit the people we support, it’s good to feel you can speak up and suggest a positive addition.
What gives you the most satisfaction in your role at Innovate Trust?
Alyn: There is a real sense of satisfaction that comes from knowing you are helping someone’s life get better.
You become an important part of the lives of the people you support.
Seeing [the people you support] develop positively and knowing that you played a part in helping that happen is a great feeling.
For someone considering a career at Innovate Trust, what qualities do they need?
Alyn: [I think] you definitely need to be a “people person,” and a patient one!
My advice to any new employees would be to really enjoy the role. Make the effort to build good relationships with the people you support and get to know your coworkers well.
It can be a lot to take in at the start. There are guidelines to learn and things like GDPR to be aware of, but if you stay focused on the people, everything else falls into place.
Start your career with strong training and development
Alyn’s story is a testament to the rewards of long-term commitment and local impact.
Looking for a role where you can grow and make a difference?
