Meet Nicci: Leading with Heart as Our Residential Services Team Leader

Finding my place at T and K Support Services

If someone had told me a few years ago that I would be working in disability support, let alone as a Residential Services Team Leader, I probably would have laughed!

My journey began in aged care, a sector I genuinely loved. I loved working with the elderly, hearing their stories, building connections, and knowing I could make a difference in their day. I honestly believed there was nothing better than aged care.

So, when the opportunity arose to join T&K Support Services as a Support Worker, I was very reluctant. I wasn't sure disability support was for me, but thankfully, I decided to give it a crack!

Little did I know that decision would lead me to a career that has become so rewarding and meaningful.

The people who fill my cup

The participants we support are truly amazing. Every single one has their own unique personality, strengths, challenges, and special gifts that make them who they are.

Since joining T&K, I have come to realise just how much the little things matter. Whether it's sharing a laugh, celebrating an achievement, building trust, or watching someone gain confidence and independence, these moments remind me why I love what I do.

My peers often say, "It fills your cup," and I couldn't agree more. These guys fill my cup every single day.

They have taught me so much about patience, understanding, resilience, and looking beyond the surface. I feel privileged to be part of their journeys, and I often think that while we are here to support them, they give us just as much in return.

The Difference T and K Make

One of the things I have come to appreciate most about T&K is the support and opportunities provided to our participants. It's about so much more than providing day-to-day assistance. It's about recognising each person as an individual, understanding what matters to them, listening to what they want, and supporting them to achieve their goals.

I love seeing participants being encouraged to try new things, develop life skills, explore their interests, build relationships, and become more independent. Whether it's attending Hub activities, learning a new skill, getting involved in the community, or simply having the confidence to make their own choices, these opportunities can make such a difference.

What I particularly value is the importance placed on choice, control, dignity, and individuality. Our participants deserve to have a voice in their own lives, to feel valued and respected, and to be supported to live a life that is meaningful to them.

I feel very fortunate to work for an organisation that genuinely values the people it supports and recognises that everyone has something special to offer.

My Journey of Growth

I started my journey at T&K as a Support Worker, then progressed into the role of Key Support Worker, and now, as Residential Services Team Leader, I have the opportunity to continue growing both personally and professionally.

Looking back, I never imagined I would find myself here, but I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have been given.

Would I change a Thing?

Although I will always value my time in aged care, moving into disability support has opened a door I never expected to walk through.

I have found a career where I feel I can make a genuine difference, where no two days are the same, and where the people I work with continue to inspire me.

I am proud of how far I have come, grateful for the incredible participants who make my days brighter, and thankful to T&K Support Services for giving me the opportunity to discover a passion I never knew I had.

I started out reluctant to make the move, but today, I can honestly say there is nowhere else I would rather be.

Sometimes, the best things in life happen when we take a chance on something new. For me, that chance led to T&K, an amazing group of participants, and a journey that continues to fill my cup every single day.