From Retail to Leadership: How Jon Swindle Found His Career in Care at Optalis

“I’ve found a career, not just a job”

Jon joined our Supported Living Services almost 5 years ago. He soon discovered that his previous experience in retail management, particularly multitasking, problem-solving, and having a can-do attitude, translated well into care.  

Jon explains “I started out doing a nursing degree but did not continue down that career path and found myself going into hospitality and then retail work instead, but helping people is something I've always liked and enjoyed doing.”  

The communication skills that Jon honed whilst working in hospitality have also been put to good use at Optalis; "I realised that I could adapt my approach to suit different personalities. Sometimes, a strong and direct approach is needed; other times, it is about being caring and nurturing or even throwing in a bit of persuasion—convincing someone with a ‘let’s do this, then we can do that’ approach.”  

Over the past few years Jon’s service has grown “I really enjoyed being part of setting up one of our new services. I could help mould it, and that's when I started really thinking, I could do this as a career rather than just do this as a as a job. I started thinking about whether I could take on more responsibility.”  

Jon discussed ways he could develop his skills further with his line manager. He took on more responsibilities including reviewing care plans and carrying out audits. Jon shares. 

"If I stagnate, the job feels like a chore. But when I'm continuously learning and growing, it stays exciting."  

Jon took time to explore other ways he could develop in his role, completing training courses available through our employee perks scheme. He then completed a Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care through training provided by Optalis. Shortly after completing his training Jon moved into a Senior Support Worker role.  

“When I became a senior, I quickly realised I could help the people we support by helping the staff to develop. Optalis gave me the support and freedom to apply my skills and make decisions. I’ve learned so much from my mistakes, they’ve shaped me into a better leader. Everyone at Optalis is always happy to help, you can always go to another team and ask for information or support.” Jon explains.  

Having worked in the senior role for two years, Jon felt it was time to take on his next challenge. He recently moved into the role of Deputy Manager for Optalis Community Living Services. "I'm learning to be more malleable, especially with the new service I’m working in.”  

One of his key projects includes setting up a service to support people leaving foster care. Jon’s background growing up in a family who foster has provided a unique insight and influences his approach to supporting others. 

“My parents have been foster carers for over 30 years, and I’ve always admired how they helped kids who came from difficult situations. Now, with Optalis giving me the opportunity to run a service for young care leavers, I feel like I’m giving back in the same way."  

Working hands-on with both people we support and staff, Jon stresses the importance of staying connected to the daily realities of care. "Even as a deputy manager, I'm still hands-on. I believe if you’re working in care, you should be ready to support people directly. It helps build a relationship with the staff, and I can lead by example. Whether it's helping with personal care, helping people we support to prepare their meals, or just working alongside the team, it's a chance to offer guidance and mentorship."

Looking ahead, Jon is excited about his future at Optalis. With aspirations to complete his Level 5 training and eventually pursue a registered manager role, he acknowledges the journey ahead: "I’m not rushing, though. It’s a big step up, and I want to be ready. I’ve had great support from everyone so far, and I know I’ll continue to grow with the team behind me." 

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