How Sabrina built an award-winning career in care with Lifeways

When Sabrina Brown left school, she had no idea she was about to find a career she would go on to love. 

Like many young people, she was unsure what path to take. But after applying for a Support Worker role at The Holt at Heath Farm, just outside Lincoln, in 2017, she discovered a profession that was both challenging and deeply rewarding. 

Almost nine years later, Sabrina has built an impressive career in care. Starting as a Support Worker, she progressed through the ranks to Team Leader, then Deputy Manager, before recently being promoted to Registered Manager. Along the way, her dedication and leadership were recognised on a national stage when she was crowned Deputy Manager of the Year at the National Care Awards in 2024. 

Finding purpose in a role she never expected to stay in 

Sabrina admits she only applied to become a Support Worker to fill a gap while she figured out what she wanted to do with her future, expecting to stay for no more than a year. 

“I just thought I’d go and do the job for a year and then move on to something else. I didn’t really know what I wanted to do at the time, so I planned to get a job and figure it out from there.” 

However, she quickly discovered the role was far from what she had imagined and found herself in one of the most rewarding careers she could have chosen. 

“I think when you leave school and hear about care, you assume it’s all about getting people up and dealing with the more difficult personal care tasks, but that’s such a small part of it,” continued Sabrina. 

“There’s so much more to care than I ever realised. There’s a real stigma around care work that just doesn’t reflect what the job is actually like. 

“Supporting people with autism and complex needs, and helping them become as independent as possible, is incredibly rewarding. It’s those everyday moments where you can see the difference it makes that really stand out.” 

Climbing the ranks 

Since joining Lifeways, Sabrina has worked tirelessly to progress her career. She completed a Level 3 Leader in Adult Care apprenticeship, provided by Lifeways, while in post as a team leader, followed by a Level 5 Leadership and Management apprenticeship, also provided by Lifeways, while working as a deputy manager. These qualifications equipped her with the knowledge and skills needed for her current role. 

Thanks to her drive and dedication, she was promoted to Assistant Team Leader in less than two years after starting as a Support Worker. Shortly after, she moved up to Team Leader, where she spent almost three years before stepping up again to Deputy Manager. After four years in that role, she was promoted once more to Registered Manager in May this year. 

“Anyone who joins Lifeways and puts their mind to it can do what I’ve done. Progression only happens if you’re willing to put the work in and genuinely care about the service and the people you support. 

“I’ve worked really hard since moving into senior roles, coordinating care plans and taking on more responsibility. It felt almost like coming full circle when I became Registered Manager.” 

Award-winning care 

One of Sabrina’s proudest achievements came from supporting a person at The Holt through a particularly difficult period, where morning routines could sometimes stretch into the evening due to anxiety and behaviours of distress. 

After spending time observing the situation, Sabrina identified that the underlying issue stemmed from bathtime. The individual was unable to lie down in a standard bath and would sit cross-legged, leaving him feeling uncomfortable and cramped. 

She successfully pushed for a full refurbishment of the bathroom, which included installing a square bath designed to allow him to sit comfortably cross-legged. 

“It’s the most person-centred bathroom I’ve ever seen. He also loves his music, so we made sure there was a Bluetooth speaker fitted so he could listen while he’s in the bath,” said Sabrina. 

“Once the changes were made, the difference was immediate. He would just smile - he was so much happier, and now he’s up and finished his morning routine by 10am.” 

It was this work, among other examples, that led to Sabrina being named Deputy Manager of the Year at the National Care Awards in 2024, presented by BBC One Show presenter Alex Jones. 

“When my category was announced, I was so nervous. Then I heard my name called and honestly didn’t know how to react. 

“I just covered my mouth in shock, then felt completely overwhelmed and ecstatic. I cried when I got on stage to collect the award and saw my name on it. It meant so much to be recognised nationally, and to know the hard work and dedication I put into my role hadn’t gone unnoticed.” 

Pride in care 

Although Sabrina believes many people misunderstand what support work involves, she says you don’t need specific qualifications to get started - just the right mindset. For her, it comes down to being caring, adaptable, and willing to think differently to solve problems. 

“It’s not what people think. There’s so much more to it than just meeting someone’s basic needs. Support work is far more varied than that, and if you’ve got the right attitude, it’s absolutely worth giving it a go.” 

Sabrina says she feels proud not just of her progression, but of the everyday impact her work has on people’s lives. 

“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, but more than that, I’m proud of the difference you can make. Seeing someone become more independent, more confident, and happier in their daily life - that’s what it’s all about.” 

If you are looking for a career with real progression and the chance to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, take a look at the latest opportunities at Lifeways. 

Sabrina isn’t just anyone - and this isn’t just any job.