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Background & motivation
From a young age, Luke Cooper aspired to become a social worker. Luke didn’t have the GCSE qualifications to attend sixth form, but undeterred, Luke pursued a GNVQ Intermediate and Advanced course at a Technical College. Despite completing these care qualifications, he struggled to secure a paid role in care due to his limited hands-on experience.
Life took an unexpected turn when Luke was scouted for a modelling opportunity and before he knew it, he was working in a Toni & Guy hair show!
Inspired by the creativity he witnessed as a model, Luke trained as a hairdresser with Toni & Guy and worked in the hair industry for eight years. Yet, the calling to work in adult care never left him.
Luke’s path into care
Luke eventually transitioned into the care field by accepting a role in a local care home for young people with physical disabilities. Luke told Realise that it was this initial experience that opened doors for him to later join a stroke ward at a local hospital, where he worked diligently for ten years.
After starting a family, it was clear to Luke that his strenuous hospital shift patterns were now incompatible with his life as a father. Determined to stay within the sector he loved, Luke took on a role supporting a young man with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, before unexpectedly experiencing a personal setback that required him to relocate and live with his parents.
Despite these challenges, Luke remained committed to adult care, working with an elderly lady with dementia in her home for a year.
Once his personal circumstances improved, Luke returned to his family home and was successfully employed by Noble Care, where he currently works as a Senior Support Worker.
Role & responsibilities
Luke’s role is both hands-on and supervisory. His day starts at 07:45 with a handover from the night staff. He then delegates tasks, administers medication, and supports his team throughout the day to ensure the smooth running of the service. Luke’s responsibilities include:
- Delegating and supporting staff in daily duties
- Administering medication
- Monitoring and reacting to service user needs
- Ensuring seamless service delivery through ongoing communication
Luke’s ‘why’
Luke enrolled in the Level 3 Lead Adult Care Worker Diploma for several reasons.
He expressed a strong belief in his capabilities, stating:
“I have the experience and knowledge to be able to do this, but having the qualifications to back it up will help me.”
Luke sees the diploma as an essential step toward fulfilling his long-term ambition of advancing within the care profession. He is determined to ensure his experience is recognised through formal qualifications.
Impact of the course
Although Luke has not yet completed the course, the impact is already clear. The diploma has highlighted the depth of knowledge he already possesses, helping him to:
- Recognise and validate his existing skills
- Build confidence in his role
- Improve his effectiveness as a carer and team leader
He commented:
“The course is showing me that I know more than I realise, which is making me a better carer and giving me the confidence to work better.”
Looking ahead
Luke is focused on completing his diploma with Realise and using it as a foundation for future progression in care. While the qualification may not be a barrier today, he is aware that in time it could limit opportunities. By proactively gaining his Level 3 diploma, Luke is ensuring he remains competitive and prepared for the next stage in his career.
