Over 40,000 social care practitioners are making a difference in people’s lives across Northern Ireland. We are sharing their stories and shining a light on the men and women who dedicate themselves to social care. They believe in better. They believe in making a difference.
Our series of short films and photographs tell the stories of social care practitioners, recognising their valuable contribution, highlighting the enabling affect it can have for communities, and the diversity and flexibility of roles and career choices across the various sectors and care settings.
Social care practitioners – making a difference in people’s lives, every day
Social care practitioners are individuals who help to support, care for, protect and empower people to live as well and as independently as possible. They deliver a range of practical help and emotional support to individuals, families and communities. Working in social care requires staff to be compassionate, kind and skilled in delivering a quality service to the people being supported.
Our registered social care workforce is the largest within the Health and Social Care sector.
Read our new social care stories
Megha’s journey into social care in Northern Ireland
Megha Acharya’s path from India to social care in Belfast reveals a powerful blend of compassion, curiosity, and community. What began as part-time work during her Master’s in Public Health became a meaningful career, shaped by her experiences at a small, person-centred care provider. Megha’s story highlights how intimate, supportive environments can nurture both personal growth and exceptional care.
Mark Espina’s inspiring 7000-mile journey into social care in Northern Ireland
Mark Espina’s journey from nursing student in the Philippines to dementia care practitioner in Northern Ireland is a powerful story of resilience and compassion. After caring for his ailing parents, Mark discovered a deep calling in social care, eventually finding purpose and belonging at Hutchinson Care Homes. His experience highlights the value of diversity in the sector and the profound impact of empathy-driven care.
From volunteering to finding her calling – how Louise found a life-long career as a social care practitioner
Louise Breen’s journey into social care began with a passion for helping others and evolved into a lifelong commitment to making a difference. As she shares in her video, her role is not just about providing care, but about building trust, advocating for dignity, and empowering those she supports. Louise’s story is a testament to how empathy and dedication can transform lives—both for those receiving care and those delivering it.
More social care work stories…
From India to Northern Ireland: Joshua’s journey of dedication to social care
“The more you help others, the more happiness you receive.”
Starting a new: Karolina’s journey into social care in Northern Ireland
“Every single day is different. It’s a privilege to be part of their lives.”
Kerry’s social care journey: Every role led to where I was meant to be
“Watching motivation come to them is inspiring, it’s the best feeling.”
The power of compassion in Lauren’s social care journey
“Their journey is like Jenga blocks. Each step is a block and while it may fall down, it can always be rebuilt.”
Always meant to be: How Rachel found her true calling
“I thought it would be scarier, but it’s an extremely fulfilling role.”
How Harry’s love for helping people took him out of retirement
“I’ve found out life is about giving,
not taking.”
From teaching to advocating: A social care journey that was meant to be
“I absolutely love advocating for kids, it’s what I was meant to do.”
How Hanna progressed through her social care career
“Even on the difficult days when you go home, you still feel great because you know you have made a difference to someone’s life.”
From hairdressing to social care: Sally’s social care journey
“You have to see it through their eyes rather than your own.”
A journey to remember: A story about career progression in social care
“The biggest satisfaction comes from knowing you have truly helped someone.”
From wanting to help to making a difference: Rebecca’s social care journey
“Just knowing you have helped someone is the most amazing feeling.”
Feeling inspired? Working together to change people’s lives…
Make a difference and embark on your journey into social care.