We have so much fun it often doesn’t feel like working!
You don’t hear that about many jobs, but it’s something we hear a lot at MacIntyre.
We spoke to Cheri Johnson, Deputy Manager at one of our supported living homes in Milton Keynes. When asked what she enjoys about the role, Cheri highlighted the small moments: someone’s gratitude when you make them a hot chocolate, the excitement of heading out shopping, or the fun people find in sharing their hobbies and daily routines.
Cheri’s background is in retail, having worked at Next for several years. When she saw our job advert in 2022, it sparked her curiosity. During the interview, she realised her skills in communication, listening, and understanding people would transfer perfectly.
She started as a Support Worker, was promoted to Senior Support Worker, and now, recently, to Deputy Manager. Cheri says every role has its rewards. Being a Senior kept her in close day-to-day contact with the people she supports - what drew her to the work in the first place - while also teaching her the skills needed to manage and organise a team.
When we asked about misconceptions she had before joining social care, Cheri explained that personal care often gets misunderstood. Some think it’s all the job entails; others aren’t sure what it involves. In reality, personal care is a small but essential part of the work with some people, from gentle reminders to shower, to intimate care in the toilet. While not glamorous, it’s a privilege to help someone stay comfortable, and all new staff receive full training in personal care and other essentials.
The adults Cheri supports in Milton Keynes live in shared flats, enjoying what we call “gloriously ordinary lives.” Some work at the nearby MacIntyre Coffee Shop, chatting with regular customers.
Sadly, some older people have developed dementia, which is more common among people with learning disabilities; in these cases, our local Admiral Nurse, Astrid, is on hand to provide guidance and training to staff.
One of the most challenging parts of the role, Cheri says, is when someone supported passes away. Even when the relationship is professional, grief can be intense. Supporting friends and flatmates through loss is also difficult, and takes time. MacIntyre has extensive experience and tools to help staff navigate these moments.
New staff joining the team are paired with experienced colleagues to shadow them while completing all the standard training: medication, health and safety, and more. Over weeks and months, as staff gain experience and build relationships, they develop their expertise.
For those interested in more flexible arrangements, MacIntyre has a large Relief team, providing support across flats when regular staff are on leave or training. Relief work can also be a great way to explore a longer-term career in social care.
Cheri’s advice for anyone starting in social care?
Be open-minded, expect the unexpected, and don’t take offense easily - people will tell you exactly what they think. They’ll tell you if they don’t like your new haircut, but they’ll also celebrate the small ways you make a difference in their day.
If you’re interested in joining MacIntyre, check out our vacancies here.
