Supporting people to achieve independence: James' Story

We love speaking to people at Choice Care who make a real difference every day and James’ experience as a Social Care Worker is a perfect example of how rewarding a career in care can be. 

James works in the Fareham Supported Living team, and has been with Choice Care since September 2025, when his team and the people they support joined the Choice Care Group.  

With years of experience and a strong personal motivation, James is passionate about helping the people he supports live fulfilling and independent lives and brings dedication, empathy and a person-centred approach to his role. 

For James, working in care is more than just a job, it is a career with purpose. Growing up alongside a brother with autism, James’ understanding of communication differences was shaped very early on. This gave him valuable insight into how to recognise cues and provide the right support at the right time. 

“Growing up with someone diagnosed with autism gave me the skills to notice the small signs, when someone might be anxious or overwhelmed, and to help support them. For anyone considering a career in care, this variety and sense of purpose is often what makes the job so motivating.” 

Stories like James’ highlight why support work can be such a meaningful career path. It combines professional skills with compassion to create real impact. 

James works closely with the gentlemen he supports, helping them with all aspects of their life while empowering them to have real choice and control. From medication, to going out and about. Trips might include going to the cinema, heading out for lunch, enjoying walks or planning bigger experiences like theatre visits or holidays. 

James’ days are varied and rewarding, one of the reasons he finds the role so fulfilling. 

‘I feel so lucky to be able to share in the experience and growth of the people we support, it’s a true privilege to be part of their lives. Every day is different. One day we might be out and about, another day focusing on life skills at home, that variety is what makes the role so enjoyable.’  

James approaches his work with a strong sense of responsibility and empathy, using what he calls the “mum test” to guide his practice, asking himself whether he would be happy for a member of his own family to receive the same standards – say, for example, when helping someone we support get dressed and choose what to wear. 

“If the answer is no, then I know I need to do better. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.” 

This mindset reflects the values at the heart of a successful career in care, respect, accountability and genuine compassion. 

James’s story is a great reminder that a career as a support worker offers more than just a job, it offers the chance to grow, learn and make a lasting difference every single day. 

Through his commitment to independence, choice and high-quality support, James helps create an environment where people can thrive and live the lives they choose, showing just how impactful and rewarding a career in care can be. 

If you are looking for a role where you can build meaningful relationships, develop valuable skills and see the difference you make, support work is a career that truly delivers on all fronts.