Jakub’s story
At 17, like many young people, Jakub didn’t have a clear career plan. What he did have was curiosity, an open mind, and the determination to find work that really meant something. Just three years later, that mindset has taken him from a part time Support Worker to an Advanced Support Worker - and his journey is only just beginning.
After leaving school at 16, Jakub enrolled in college and initially chose to study business. It wasn’t long before he realised it wasn’t for him.
Everything changed when he switched to a combined health and social care course. As he learned more, something clicked. Jakub discovered a genuine passion for supporting people through challenges, helping them rebuild confidence and regain independence.
Inspired to turn that passion into a career, he started searching for apprenticeships and opportunities. That’s when he came across Community Integrated Care on LinkedIn. After researching the charity and spotting a vacancy close to home, he applied for a part time Support Worker role and was successful at interview!
Work that makes you happy
Jakub admits he didn’t know what to expect when he started. Like many people, he imagined was a traditional care home setting. What he experienced was something completely different – a workplace that suited him down to the ground.
“What really stood out was how supportive everyone is. It feels like a little family. You’re not just coming in to do a job - you’re part of something much bigger.”
That sense of belonging has stayed with him. In three years, Jakub says there hasn’t been a single day he hasn’t wanted to go into work.
“You always leave feeling like you’ve achieved something amazing. It puts a smile on your face.”
Growing into leadership
Jakub began by supporting a small number of people with different needs. As his confidence, skills and experience grew, so did his responsibilities.
Through ongoing training and development, he was promoted to Advanced Support Worker within a specialist complex care service. Today, he works predominantly with people experiencing mental health challenges, including paranoia disorder and complex attachment needs.
His role now goes beyond day to day support. Jakub also acts as a first point of contact for colleagues, stepping confidently into a leadership role and supporting others to deliver the best possible care.
Crucially, he has achieved all of this without going to university. When he realised that university would mean leaving Community Integrated Care, it wasn’t a choice he wanted to make.
“I realised I could genuinely progress here. My biggest goal is to keep growing and see where this career takes me.”
Changing perceptions of social care careers
Jakub is passionate about challenging misconceptions around social care - particularly among young people.
“A lot of people don’t see social care as a career, and that’s really sad. There’s a lack of understanding about what the job actually involves. It’s far more rewarding than most people realise.”
If there’s one message Jakub wants others to take from his story, it’s this:
“Just give it a go. This job has changed the way I see life - how I treat people and the confidence I have in myself. Working with people who might be twice my age made me step up and grow in ways I never expected. It’s 100% worth it.”