Syeda's Story

I first joined Look Ahead as a support worker around two years ago. I have worked with people with a learning disability at our Tower Hamlets Complex Needs Day Centre service from day one, and I can honestly say it’s been a fantastic journey.

Before Look Ahead, I had volunteered with Green Peace while studying for my international relations degree, and my first job was a back-office role at a local mental health charity.

I applied to Look Ahead because I wanted to support people to make positive changes in their lives, like I had seen others doing at my last job. I had never worked in a customer facing role like this before, in fact, I hadn’t really met a person with a learning disability either.

I got used to the work fast. My colleagues taught me what to do and supported me all the way. I felt like part of the team from the beginning. The training Look Ahead gave me was excellent too, especially for someone like me, who hadn’t worked in the sector before.

I soon got to know our customers, and felt confident to support people in the community, to administer their medication, and with personal care.

Before, I thought the people I support needed to have things done for them. But I very quickly realised how capable and active a person can become if you give them a chance. It’s been eye-opening in the best way.

Our customers usually go out in the morning if the weather is suitable. They enjoy a range of activities that encourage independence, and encourage them to look after their wellbeing, from riding accessible bikes, to joining local workshops like karate, pottery, and Look Ahead’s own inclusive dance project AnyBody Can Dance. Every customer gets bespoke support and has their own timetable of activities that they choose for themselves. They may want to go to a museum, or do arts and crafts, which we then display for family members and visitors at the service. No two days are the same, and I love that.

Another thing that I really value is that the service is based in Tower Hamlets. It’s where I was born and raised, and our service supports so many people and their families from the community I grew up in. It’s priceless.

Senior management really know how to make someone feel appreciated too. Last year, I won a Look Ahead staff award for excellence. It felt great to have my achievements celebrated here.

I’m confident that my future is bright.