Nora joined United Response in October 2019, as an Administrator in the Richmond Community Support team.

She planned to use her spare time to finish her novel while working 30 hours a week. But life had a different plan, and when COVID hit, her role and responsibilities changed.

Nora began working in residential care, supporting managers across six houses.

Bringing her writing skills to United Response

Nora’s love for storytelling was not lost in this transition.

She and her area manager started a newsletter that eventually became an e-publication and magazine, highlighting positive stories from support workers and people they support in the Richmond area.

I’m a storyteller at heart and I loved using this to share United Response’s story.

Nora believes that storytelling is a powerful tool for change, and she uses her creative side to make an impact in her work.

Seizing the opportunity

Nora’s background is in publishing, and she started her career in educating children before moving into journalism. She also gained skills in teaching English and creative writing, and she noticed the empowerment that comes with that.

Nora loves making a difference, and when she came across United Response, she saw an opportunity to fill a gap in support for vulnerable adults.

I noticed a lot of support out there for children with disabilities, but didn’t realise that when you become an adult, it can feel like support evaporates.

Nora (third from left) on a day out to St. Paul’s Cathedral with her manager Matthew Campbell (far right), Vicar of St. Paul’s Cathedral (third from right), and people we support

Nora’s top tips for being a great support worker

Nora believes that to be in a supporting role, you must have perspective, be approachable, compassionate, and have a good sense of humour:

You must have an open mind and be able to see things from another person’s point of view, but at the same time be able to lighten the load and have a laugh.

Nora’s progression at United Response

Nora’s progression from an Administrator in Community Support to a Team Leader with involvement in The Enterprise is a testament to her dedication and passion.

In her role as a Team Leader, Nora delivers wellbeing sessions for people with learning disabilities and autism, relying on her creativity to make a difference. She believes that our bodies are like a London Tube map – all stations work and there are no signal failures when we take care of our wellbeing!

Her sessions are lively and fun, and she encourages everyone to bring their optimism and happiness to the room.

Nora out for a walk with someone we support

Can you help us make a difference?

At United Response, Nora found a place where passion and purpose meet. She gets to do something she loves, while making a difference in people’s lives.

If you’re passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of others, start your career with United Response. We have opportunities to work in a variety of roles and locations across the country.

You can find our latest support worker vacancies here

  • Anisa Syed is Digital Marketing Officer for United Response