Meet ConnectAbility Disability Support Worker, Bec Walters
ConnectAbility Disability Support Worker (DSW) Bec Walters is one of those people whose passion for her work shines through the moment you meet her. With a background in nursing home and disability support, she brings warmth, energy and dedication to every shift. Here, Bec shares how seeing customers’ feeling happy and knowing she helped them thrive is the best feeling in the world. Read on to learn more about her journey, what motivates her, and the most rewarding parts of supporting people to live full, meaningful lives.
Why did you choose to become a disability support worker?
I knew I wanted to become a support worker from a very young age as my mum used to work as a community nurse, and I saw firsthand how rewarding her work was.
I completed my Certificate IV in Nursing Home and Community and my Certificate III in Individual Disability. I then worked in a nursing home for seven years before moving into a physio-aide role, running exercise classes to help clients maintain mobility and motor skills. I also supported new residents by assessing the equipment they needed and keeping care plans up to date. When I decided to make the move to ConnectAbility I’m so glad I did as it’s a fantastic organisation with a truly friendly, supportive environment.
What is the most rewarding part of your day as a disability support worker?
I love seeing clients reach their goals. Watching them enjoy life, going out, working, heading to discos, being with friends, smiling each day. That’s what makes the job so rewarding.
I also enjoy assisting clients with making dinner and building their skills. Seeing their faces light up when they learn a new skill or cook a meal for others makes my day.
How does ConnectAbility’s culture support you?
ConnectAbility’s culture makes you feel supported, appreciated and valued. It’s very different from some other workplaces I’ve been in. Management checks in regularly, communicates well and is always approachable and understanding. They genuinely care about staff and support us to develop our skills and grow our careers. That level of support is one of the main reasons I love working here.
What’s one thing you wish people knew about the impact of disability support work?
That building trust and friendship is everything. A positive mindset, patience, being a good listener and being a familiar face can change someone’s day. It’s about offering choices and creating opportunities to engage in activities that promote wellbeing and a sense of accomplishment.
Can you share an example of helping a customer overcome a challenge or reach a milestone?
I supported a client who was coming home bored and unsettled after doing craft all day in their program. We put on music, danced around the house, and did some exercises, and the smile on their face said it all. Working as a team, we then helped the client explore new program options that better matched their interests. Now they enjoy swimming, movies, going to the zoo and ten-pin bowling instead of doing craft all day. Seeing their happiness and knowing we helped them thrive is an incredible feeling.
Tell us about a client relationship that really touched your heart. What made it special?
Every client has a story, especially those living in SIL homes. One relationship that touched my heart was a client who moved out of her family home to live with four other ladies. It was a huge and scary transition for her – she had only ever lived with her mum and dad.
Staff had many conversations with the client and her family to reassure them that we would care for her as if she were our own family. Over time, her mum saw how happy, safe and supported her daughter was. Now, every time she visits, she hugs the staff the moment she arrives and again when she leaves. Seeing her daughter thriving means the world to her — and to us.
How did you first come to work at ConnectAbility, and what motivates you to stay?
I was working part-time for another organisation when a friend told me that ConnectAbility had job openings. I applied, and I’m so grateful I did. The positive culture, supportive team and wonderful clients make coming to work enjoyable every day. I truly love what I do — and who I get to do it with.
If you or a loved one are looking for a new home, please check out our current SDA vacancies at: ConnectAbility Australia