Wayne’s story
"It is fantastic to remain working closely with the people we support, just in a more senior role. They are the reason I love my job so much."
When Wayne Watson joined Community Integrated Care in December 2021, he was looking for somewhere he could grow. He found exactly that. Less than three years on, he is now a Service Leader overseeing multiple services in northern Scotland and inspiring others to follow their social care ambitions too.
Inspired to apply
Wayne did not arrive through a standard application. He joined based on a recommendation from his partner, who already worked for the charity and loved it. Her experience convinced him to apply, and he quickly realised a career in social care was the right choice for him.
SVQ success
From day one as a Support Worker, Wayne wanted to complete his SVQ Level 3. The charity supported him with this dream.
"Within two months of joining, I was fully supported to enrol. It was a breath of fresh air. I knew I was in the right place."
That early investment set the tone for everything that followed.
A first taste of social care leadership
While completing his SVQ, the charity launched its first Learn to LEAD programme for aspiring social care leaders. Encouraged by his manager, Wayne applied and was successful.
"The programme gave me my first real taste of leadership and let me connect with colleagues from across the organisation."
Balancing his frontline role, Learn to LEAD and his qualification, Wayne’s commitment stood out.
Never losing sight of what matters most
Last year, Wayne secured a Service Leader role. For him, the best part was staying close to the people he supports.
"It is fantastic to remain working closely with the people we support, just in a more senior role."
They remain his motivation and the anchor of his career.
Building his future in social care
Wayne’s leadership responsibilities grew quickly. He began overseeing three services while also taking on the challenge of building a brand-new social care service from the ground up.
Once the development fully opens, he will move into a senior leadership position, reflecting the scale of what he has helped create.
His journey proves you do not always need to move organisations, or even move location, to progress. Sometimes staying put gives you room to rise.
Wayne leads with the same encouragement he once received, keeping his values at the centre of his work. His story shows that, in the right environment, dedication is noticed and ambitions can become reality without losing sight of what matters most.
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