A Day In The Life of A Support Worker

I work night shifts from 7:30pm until just after 8:00am, supporting a young autistic man with complex needs. Every shift is different, but each one is centred around providing compassionate, person-centred care and helping him feel safe, valued and supported.

My shift begins with handover from the day team. We discuss how the day has gone, any important information, and make a plan for the night ahead. Once handover is complete, my team and I greet the service user. As part of his routine, we always say, “Good morning,” followed by our names, even though it’s the evening. This familiar greeting brings him comfort and helps him settle into the night.

He is a kind and friendly young man who enjoys chatting with staff. Building positive relationships with him is an important part of our role. Occasionally, due to the challenges associated with his condition, he becomes distressed and may attempt to hurt himself by head banging. During these times, additional staff attend to support us, and we use trained, least-restrictive interventions to keep him safe. Throughout these situations, staff speak calmly, offer reassurance, use positive reinforcement, and encourage him to regain control in a safe and supportive environment.

Once he is calm, we begin his evening routine. He enjoys calling his mam before bed, and they often spend around an hour chatting. Seeing how much comfort this brings him is always a lovely part of the evening.

After his call, we support him with his personal care. He chooses to have a shower, and while two staff members assist him, I prepare his bedroom by making his bed and laying out his pyjamas and towels. We all encourage his independence wherever possible, while providing assistance when he asks for it, such as helping him brush his teeth.

Sometimes, even during his bedtime routine, he can become unsettled. If he attempts to harm himself, we respond immediately, working together to protect him while continuing to reassure him that he is safe and supported. Once he is calm again, the routine continues as normally as possible.

The nurse completes the nightly observations, administers medication, and attends to any healthcare needs. Afterwards, we spend time reading stories together. Reading is one of his favourite activities, and each member of staff takes turns so everyone can spend time engaging with him.

Later, he has his usual supper, something that forms an important part of his consistent nightly routine. Afterwards, he chooses what he’d like to do next. Most nights he asks for more stories before settling down with a DVD and his phone. We tuck him into bed, offer reassurance, and stay nearby while he relaxes.

Around 1:40am, he usually asks for the bedroom door to be closed. Often, he likes to hold my hand as he falls asleep. It is a simple gesture, but one that reflects the trust we have built over time. Once he is in a deep sleep and lets go of my hand, I quietly leave my ID badge where he can see it, as he knows this means I will be coming back after my break.

Night shifts don’t always stay peaceful. Sometimes the alarm sounds, and everyone responds immediately. If he wakes distressed and attempts to hurt himself or others, the team works together, alongside additional staff, to keep everyone safe using approved techniques. These situations can be physically and emotionally demanding, but throughout them our focus never changes: keeping him safe, treating him with dignity, and helping him return to a calm state.

Once settled again, I return to sit beside him as he sleeps. The rest of the night is often quiet, with staff taking turns to have breaks while ensuring he is continuously supported.

As morning approaches, the day team arrives for handover. We share the events of the night, discuss how he is feeling, and make sure the incoming staff have everything they need to provide continuity of care.

After handing in my keys and alarm, I leave knowing that, despite the challenges, we have helped someone feel safe, cared for and supported throughout the night. I drive home tired but proud of the teamwork, patience and compassion that make this role so rewarding.