In this series, we delve into the diverse experiences of Hireup support workers during their first booking. Discover insights and tips from both newcomers and well-seasoned disability support workers.
Christian’s spirit animal is a fish. It’s even the nickname his friends give him.
He’s always in the water – whether it’s free diving, scuba diving, or swimming. But when he’s on land, he’s also a dedicated Hireup support worker.
At 30 years old; Christian is pursuing an honours degree in psychology, manages a performance workshop for race and street vehicles, and proudly embraces his passion for video games as a self-confessed nerd.
Here, he tells us all about the “minor hiccup” in first booking as a Hireup support worker, and all the things he’s learnt along the way.
Christian’s tips in a snapshot:
- Save your client’s emergency contacts in your phone and give the emergency contact your number as well
- Be curious and uncover your client’s interests
- Understand that multiple factors may contribute to how someone is feeling
What do I remember from my first Hireup booking?
I was a little nervous, which I think is healthy, especially when meeting someone new. The booking was to pick up a client and take them to an appointment.
When I arrived at his place, I introduced myself, and we got in the car. I realised I didn't have the address for his appointment, so I asked him, “Oh, do you know the address?” but he wasn’t sure.
We started chatting and figured it out together, and it turned out I was taking him to his physio appointment.
I really got along with him. In his younger years, he had a bunch of different jobs and he’s lived a very enriching life. He was a mechanic, a baker, and worked at a pub – a true jack of all trades and a very friendly guy. A few years ago, he had a car accident that resulted in a brain injury affecting his memory.
He was one of my first clients, and I'm still supporting him today. I feel like we're building a good relationship. The last time I saw him, he said, "You know, this appointment is the highlight of my week. I love spending time with you."
It's been an enriching experience. So, my first Hireup booking had a minor hiccup, but we solved it together.
What would I do differently going into my first booking?
Since my first booking, I always make sure to have the emergency contact saved to my phone.
It’s really handy if you need to ask for an address or if something unexpected happens. While these numbers are usually in the support plan, I find it much easier to have them sent in a message. I also like to give them my phone number as well, just in case they need to reach me.
My most useful tip for other support workers?
Talk to the person you’re supporting. Ask them what they’d like to do and find out what they’re interested in. If you do things that your client enjoys, they’re going to have a good time and so are you. It won’t feel like work.
Has studying psychology helped me as a support worker?
Absolutely it has. My studies have changed my understanding of the world and how I perceive people. I’ve come to understand that factors like medications, mental and physical health, and even chronic pain can influence mood. This understanding helps me see the connection between someone’s experiences and they’re acting or behaving.
It has taught me to find common ground and make people feel comfortable, regardless of their background. Ultimately, people just want to be treated kindly, and once you realise that, it's easy to be a friend and show kindness.
If you enjoyed learning about Christian’s first Hireup booking, check out everything you need to know about getting started as a worker on Hireup on our website.
