500 Words Competition Winners

This year we received a record number of entries into the 500 Words Competition, and everyone made it very difficult for our panel to choose from! The quality of entries was incredible, and reading everyone’s stories really warmed our hearts. After lots of discussion, we are pleased to announce this year’s winners, beginning with our fantastic runners up. 

The runners up this year really gave the competition a run for its money. Each entry was commended for their individuality and approach to sharing their stories. We’re sure you’ll enjoy reading these incredible entries.

Winner

David MacGowan, Lancashire

Trainspotting

The big things in this job are really the little things. Easy, simple, everyday things… for us.

Trainspotting. Not an activity I thought I’d ever (A) enjoy, or (B) do at all – but support work entails the unexpected. So it was with some surprise that one day I heard my mouth saying “Let’s go trainspotting”. My brain was wondering what the hell my tongue was playing at.

I should explain at this point that I was in the living room of a new person I was supporting. He wasn’t saying anything. The outlook was grim. Time was nearly up. His mum asked and, grudgingly, he showed me his model trains, train books, train posters etc. Trains! It was then that I blurted out the three fateful words.

Next week, we set off. Neither of us really knew what trainspotters do, though I was wearing what could be described as an anorak. So our version of ‘trainspotting’ was bare bones – we would stand at train platforms and just… well… watch trains.

It was a small, quiet Sunday at the small, quiet station. Not another human soul seemed astir. We stood, wondering if any trains would come at all. And then one came. At first a mere speck in the distance, its arrival heralded by the big light changing from red to green (no flies on us!). It got closer. It got closer. It got closer still. It got yet closer. (I hope I’m sufficiently setting the scene)

AND THEN IT WAS UPON US!

A purple Trans-Pennine ZOOMED past us with a thundering roar and a whoosh of air.

I turned to my client to check his head was still on his shoulders. It was. He was smiling. A bright-eyed smile of pure joy.

This proved infectious. I was smiling, converted.

Trainspotting became our number 1, and very much fun, activity.

Our methodology developed. With the eye of trained experts we began studying the ‘traffic lights’. We consulted timetables. We made guesses as to which side of which platform the next train would appear at. Soon that wasn’t enough. We demanded greater thrills. Hour-long supports became two hours. Then three. Then four. We started actually getting on trains. Our local station became a playground, with lifts we could go up and down in repeatedly and echoey corridors to run up and down in, and platform after platform stuffed full of trains – coal trains, trains named after Thunderbirds, steam trains for a Jane Austen weekend… We saw them all.

We ventured to Blackpool, committing blasphemy- tram-spotting- and Manchester, for the Football Museum. We’d always take a snap or two, the memories preserved. Always present was his smile – a smile that allowed, as happens in this job, a glimpse for a few seconds of the world through another’s eyes, seeing afresh those little things (getting on a train, getting a coffee, walking down a new street) we probably take for granted – but can actually be an adventure.

The little things are big things.

Runners Up 

KA in Greater Manchester

I began my journey with Creative Support as a Relief Support Worker, stepping into the role eager but uncertain of what to expect. Soon after, I transitioned to a permanent Support Worker position, a decision that has proven to be one of the best of my career. Creative Support is more than just a workplace; it’s a company built on strong values, clear structure, and a genuine commitment to the people we support. It is an organisation that puts service users at the very heart of everything it does, and that is something I am incredibly proud to be part of.

The service where I currently work has been nothing short of amazing. I will admit, it was a little challenging at first. But through those challenges, I found exactly what I needed the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. Every day brings a new adventure, and I genuinely look forward to going to work. How many people can truly say that? Watching the small wins and the progress our service users make, the smiles, and the moments of trust built, reminds me daily of why I chose this path.

One of the most rewarding parts of my role is seeing the visible difference my efforts make in the lives of those we support. Whether it’s helping someone achieve a personal goal, become more independent, or simply making their day a little brighter; those moments are priceless. They remind me that even the smallest acts of support can have the biggest impact.

Working alongside a fantastic team of staff members, supported by an incredible Senior and Manager, has made my experience even more fulfilling. Having supportive leadership makes all the difference. It creates an environment where you feel valued, heard, and motivated to give your best every single day. Their guidance and encouragement have played a huge part in my development and success at Creative Support.

Being part of this organisation fills me with a deep sense of pride. Creative Support is a company that genuinely values its staff, recognising hard work and dedication through heartfelt rewards and acknowledgment. Feeling appreciated keeps me motivated and passionate about the work we do.

When I reflect on my time here, it’s not just about the role itself, but the people the service users who trust us with their journeys, the colleagues who become friends, and the leadership that inspires us to be better every day. I am proud to be a part of Creative Support. It’s not just a job; it’s a calling, and I am grateful every day for the opportunity to make a real difference.

Sara, Greater Manchester

Still Standing, Still Caring!

Joining Creative Support just under three months ago felt like coming full circle. I work as a Housing Support Worker, but my journey to this role began long before I ever imagined doing this job. I was once in the very position many of the young people I now support find themselves in—homeless, scared, and alone.

When I was younger, I had no one to guide me through those dark moments. I fell into unsafe situations, and experienced a multitude of hardships. There were times when I felt completely invisible. Life didn’t wait for me to heal—instead, it gave me more to carry. Not long after, I was diagnosed with a health condition.

Despite everything, I kept going.

Each day was a battle, but I slowly rebuilt my life, brick by brick. And when I was finally in a place of stability, I made a decision: I would turn my pain into purpose. I wanted to become the person I never had when I needed help the most. That decision led me to Creative Support.

Being part of this organisation means the world to me. I’m no longer just surviving—I’m making a difference. Every time I support a young person through crisis, I see a version of myself in them. And every time they take a small step forward, I feel that victory deep in my heart.

Looking ahead, I’m filled with hope and determination. I want to be a consistent presence for the young people I work with, someone they can rely on when the world feels like it’s falling apart. I want to show them they are not alone—because I know what it feels like to be forgot, and I never want anyone else to feel that way. If my story and my work can give someone strength, then everything I’ve been through has been worth it.

I’m proud of myself—not just for surviving, but for choosing to come back into the fire to help others find a way out. Working at Creative Support is more than a job. It’s healing. It’s meaningful. And for the first time, I feel like I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.

Enock Kamhiriri, Greater Manchester

I began my journey with Creative Support in August 2024, as a TUPE staff member where the work environment was challenging, to say the least. The company I came from was a toxic place that displayed racism and favouritism, which made it an extremely difficult environment to work in. Staff morale was consistently low, and there was no support for those who were marginalized, which, as a Black man, deeply affected my sense of belonging and self-worth. I felt undervalued, overlooked, and as though my race and background were barriers to my professional growth and personal dignity.

When Creative Support took over the service, I was cautiously optimistic but very quickly I noticed a big difference in the culture, and there was a genuine commitment to inclusivity. Unlike the previous company, where I had to constantly prove myself just to be treated with respect, Creative Support provided an environment where everyone, regardless of their background, was treated with dignity and equal opportunities. The leadership and management team consistently demonstrated a commitment to fairness and transparency. My race or background never seemed to be a factor in the way I was treated.

What truly stood out to me was the recognition of my potential. Despite the challenges I had faced with the previous company, Creative Support saw my capabilities and immediately offered me the opportunity to become a Senior Support Worker. This was a huge milestone for me, as it showed me that my skills, dedication, and experience were valued, not my race or background. The promotion was not just a title change—it was a recognition of my hard work and a demonstration of the trust Creative Support placed in me.

Everyday I see the company’s dedication to providing equal opportunities for all staff members, regardless of colour or race. There is a strong focus on staff development and empowerment, which is something the team here had never experienced before. Creative Support fosters a culture where everyone has the opportunity to excel, and it is a place where diversity is celebrated. The company goes out of its way to create an environment where people from all walks of life feel safe, valued, and appreciated. This has also had a positive impact on the residents we support.

In conclusion, my experience at Creative Support has been a life-changing one. I have gone from a place where I was constantly marginalized to a role where my contributions are recognized and celebrated. I am grateful for the opportunity to work in such an inclusive and supportive environment, and I look forward to continuing to grow within the organization. Creative Support has shown me that with the right leadership and culture, every individual—regardless of race—can succeed and thrive.

Muhammad M Ibrahim, Essex

Rooted in Purpose, Rising in Promise

When I first joined Creative Support as an agency staff member, I never anticipated the extraordinary journey that lay ahead. What began as a temporary assignment quickly transformed into a purposeful and empowering path filled with growth, opportunity and a lasting impact.

Creative Support didn’t just provide me with a job; it welcomed me into a community where people are valued, potential is nurtured, and progress is celebrated. From the outset, I was guided, encouraged, and inspired by dedicated professionals whose collective belief in my abilities ignited a powerful chain of growth and opportunity.

Thanks to their support, I transitioned from agency staff to a permanent team member and was fortunate to become a sponsored employee – an opportunity that allowed me to complete my university education and engage in transformative personal and professional development. Programs such as the Award in Education and Training (currently ongoing), along with various internal platforms, webinars and knowledge-sharing networks, have profoundly shaped my journey. I am proud to have participated in Creative Support’s Anti-Racism Training and Webinar Team and to have contributed to initiatives promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) throughout the organisation.

A major milestone along this path has been my successful completion of the NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care with Realise Training. This achievement not only represents academic success but also a testament to perseverance, collaboration and the invaluable support of Creative Support, external training providers, and third-party funders. Each has played a vital role in empowering my journey, and I remain deeply grateful for their belief in my potential.

I am also honoured to have progressed into the role of Senior Support Worker – a responsibility that fills me with pride and gratitude. Having emerged successfully from a competitive application and interview process among many talented colleagues, I view this promotion as a recognition of my commitment and the nurturing environment Creative Support fosters for all staff to grow and succeed.

Every day, our incredible service users inspire me anew. Their resilience, individuality, humour, and warmth give true meaning to the work we do. Though privacy and confidentiality prevent me from sharing personal stories, the moment I have spent with them are countless treasures that reaffirm my calling in care.

Creative Support is more than just a workplace; it is a home where dreams are nurtured, leaders are developed, and a sense of belonging thrives. Here, I continue to rise from grace to grace, role to role, and strength to strength, with a vision to lead, inspire and serve at the highest levels of excellence.

“In a world full of possibilities, those who serve with the heart will always rise beyond their dreams.”

Gift Iyonawan, West Yorkshire

A Candle that Burns weakly but Powerful

my journey as a support care worker

In my few years as a support care worker, people usually ask me what is rewarding about being just a support care worker. Some think it’s all about the wages or incentives, or maybe the company’s recognition or promotions. And truly, those things are paramount but they are not the heart of it. The smallest moments sometimes carry the deepest fulfilment. A fulfilment that is quiet but powerful. It lives in-between moments. The fulfilment that stands as a reminder of humanity, love and kindness. A fulfilment found in people like a lady I support. She is different from anyone I have ever worked with before. Every carer or resident in the home knows about her before they even meet her. “She’s one of a kind” my team leader said to me on my first day at work.

She is in her mid-nineties with Snow White hair, eyes that are wrinkled and weak, always wearing glasses and a voice as soft as a lullaby. Although her body is weak, her spirit is not. She lived alone in her flat and partially independent. Admist this, everyday without fail and willingness, she would set out, what I call, the ‘table of love’ for all carers according to the daily shifts rotation. This ‘table of love’ holds simple snacks like buns, some days packets of crisps, or even little bits of chocolate. I never get tired of doing this even when she doesn’t have to.

To this lady, who you are: young or old, new or familiar, shy or chatty, Black or White; doesn’t matter. She welcomes every one like family. She knows the name of every staff member by heart.

“Have a seat darling “

“Oh you must be tired and ready for home”

“Are you tired?”

These are her usual words and in those few moments, the world slowed down. We were seen! We are heard!

On my first shift with her, as a new employee and also an immigrant trying to fit into my new position and environment, I was nervous, unsure and quiet. But she spotted it immediately, even through her weak eyesight.

“Oh love it’s alright, feel free,” she said with a little laugh and bright smile. It is not always about the words but how she means them. I felt a glimpse of light and connection and that was the first time I truly felt free. I doesn’t care about accents, appearance or where you come from; she never passes quiet judgement. She gives love freely and truly appreciates every little bit of support rendered. She creates a space where everyone felt safe.

In a world where kindness is often rushed past, this lady reminded us of the importance of slowing down. In simple ”thank yous”, sharing tea and stories, in making everyone feel they belong, that they are important and appreciated. She once said “We don’t live forever but love and kindness we give continue to live in the crumbs and cups of those we share our little moments with.”

This made me realise that even as support care workers who are dedicated to making those we support feel better by providing daily support, we too feel, and find satisfaction in the simplest “thank you”, and in the happy and satisfied faces of the service users give us a glimpse of light too. This is a reminder that we are truly touching lives and our little impacts are seen and appreciated!

Louise Bell, Cumbria

When I first walked into the building on my very first day, I had no idea what to expect. I was welcomed with friendly faces and a big “hello, my name is […]!” This one sentence made my nerves disappear and turn into joy and excitement. I knew that I had made the right decision.

I was looking forward to making a difference to the individual people’s lives, and I knew that one day, each of them would rely on me to support, care and love them as unique people. Gradually, I began working with all six of the individuals and the smile on their faces when they had tried something new, or enjoyed an activity made it very special. The things that gave them so much joy and content are things that I may often take for granted. Not only did the residents make me smile and made me feel accepted, they also changed the way I look at things. They all gave me a new perspective and the things I may not have thought about in the past. They have also provided me with a more positive outlook on life.

Fast forward five years at Creative Support where I am supporting, caring for and have built ever lasting relationships with the six incredibly unique, amazing individuals that I have the absolute pleasure of supporting. The individuals at my service have taught me so much about learning disabilities and autism and I will be forever grateful to each and every one of them. Not only have they taught me about themselves, but they have also helped me learn about myself. During my time I have laughed with joy, cried with overwhelm, but most importantly, I feel proud to work for Creative Support and offer my support, affection and compassion to help individuals feel special and not different.

One of my proudest moments in Creative support is winning a We Care Silver Award for dedicated support for one of the individuals. I still remember my first day, the service user who I am now a key worker for, never left her flat and she didn’t have the best confidence in staff or in herself. With resilience, encouragement, care and determination, she has built wonderful relationships with her support workers. Her first time ever on a train and a bus was amazing and it’s a memory that I will never forget. I am incredibly proud of each and every person that I support. They have tried new activities, gone to new places and put their trust and hope in all staff members. Together, as a Creative Support family, we can continue to change lives, push limits and make dreams come true.

Patrice Lawson, London

Changed by Care: A Journey of Growth and Connection

When I joined Creative Support, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. Like many entering social care, I came with curiosity, compassion, and a strong desire to make a difference. What I didn’t anticipate was how much this role would shape me—both professionally and personally.

Over time, I’ve had the privilege of supporting people from all walks of life, each with unique stories, challenges, and victories. One experience that stands out is working with a service user who we initially didn’t have much information about, so we approached with caution rather than confidence. But with time, through small gestures and consistent care, we built trust. Today, something as simple as a high five from him brings genuine joy. That shift—from uncertainty to connection—reminded me why I do this work.

Another meaningful moment came with another tenant. When I finally got the chance to work with him, I gave it my all. Now, whenever I’m scheduled with him, I feel proud knowing our connection is strong and meaningful because of the effort I’ve put in.

Creative Support has taught me that real care isn’t just about routines—it’s about being present, listening, and showing up consistently. Some days, support looks like helping with tasks. Other days, it means quietly encouraging someone to believe in themselves again. It’s in these everyday moments that the real impact happens.

What keeps me inspired is the resilience of those we support and the commitment of my colleagues. I work alongside people who go above and beyond—not for recognition, but because they genuinely care. Being part of a team like that motivates me to keep giving my best.

This journey has stretched and refined me. I’ve come to value the little things—small victories, moments of trust, shared smiles—that make a big difference. Support work, I’ve learned, isn’t just about changing lives; it’s also about being changed along the way.

Looking back, I feel proud. Proud of the people I’ve worked with, the growth I’ve experienced, and the quiet, powerful moments that remind me why I chose this path.

Claire Mansfield, Northampton

2009. The year Black Eyed Peas were dominating every playlist, and me bright eyed, fresh faced (with probably questionable fashion choices) beginning my journey with Creative Support for the very first time as a support worker. Little did I know, that would be the beginning of a wild, wonderful, sometimes bonkers, always meaningful adventure that has spanned over a decade, and counting.

I started out in one of our resource centres, which is basically where I fell in with the magic of support work. There’s something extraordinary about being able to inspire and uplift the individuals we support. It’s not about grand gestures or dramatic speeches it’s the little moments. A shared laugh. A breakthrough. That look of pride on someone’s face when they smash a goal. That’s the good stuff. That’s what got me hooked.

After that, I moved into our residential and supported living services and, wow, what a ride. Every individual I met had a story, a way of life, and wisdom. Working in residential settings really expanded my mind and my heart. It taught me how to truly listen, how to build trust, and how to throw the best impromptu dance parties in a living room. More importantly, it shaped my approach to be unapologetically person-centred. Because no two people are the same, and support should never be one size fits all.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege, and yes, I mean privilege, of growing through a variety of roles, all the way to where I am now: a Registered Manager. Fancy title, sure, but what it really means is I get to champion not only the amazing individuals we support but also the incredible staff who make the magic happen every day. And let me tell you, the support I’ve received on this journey. From mentoring to morale-boosting tea rounds, the encouragement has been real and relentless.

And it’s not just been work-work-work. Oh no. I’ve danced at concerts, screamed on rollercoasters (sometimes louder than the people I was supporting), soaked up the sun on holidays, and eaten questionable theme park food, all in the name of making memories. Seeing someone light up with excitement because they’re doing something they love.

So here I am, still going strong, with a heart full of stories, a mind buzzing with ideas, and shoes that have walked many miles (some in sand, some in mud) And I’m not done yet. The journey continues, and if it’s anything like the last few years, bring it on.

Rebecca Cleary, Wigan

Over the past 13 years, I’ve been on the most incredible journey with Creative Support. I started my career as a Support Worker, not fully knowing just how much this role, and this organisation, would shape my life. Today, as a Senior Service Manager, I often reflect on just how lucky I’ve been—not only to have grown professionally, but to have met some of the most inspirational people along the way.

From the very beginning, I was surrounded by colleagues who carried such a deep passion for the work they do—some of whom have been part of Creative for over 20 years. Their dedication inspired me and fuelled my own desire to progress and make a real difference. I have always admired Anna, the founder of Creative Support. Her vision and commitment to supporting people through life’s most difficult challenges is something I hold in complete awe. She built a service where people are given the chance to live independently, in safe and supportive environments—and I feel honoured to be part of that mission.

Throughout my journey, I have been given so many opportunities to grow, learn and develop. The biggest highlight of my career came in 2017 when I was promoted to Service Manager. I still find myself saying, “I can’t quite believe it happened.” That moment was a turning point for me—it was when I truly promised myself, and Creative Support, that I would give everything I had to my role. No matter the capacity, I would always give my best.

In every role I have held, there have been times I haven’t known the answer. It is in those moments I have had to dig deep, overcome anxiety and self-doubt, and remind myself that I can. I have always had the support of those around me, which has been vital in building my confidence. That unwavering support from my colleagues, mentors, and the wider Creative family has helped me grow not just as a professional, but also as a person.

There have been many achievements, and of course, many challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, brought uncertainty and change none of us could have predicted. However, through it all, the strength and resilience of our teams shone through. The staff truly are the heart of Creative Support—they are what make this company so great.

I am genuinely proud and blessed to be part of this organisation. At its core, Creative Support is about promoting wellbeing, independence, and choice—and I see that lived out every day. It is more than just a job; it’s a purpose, a community, and a family. Looking back, I am filled with gratitude—and looking forward, I remain excited for what lies ahead.