4th March 2026
I didn’t always see myself in social care. I spent most of my school years aiming for a career in law, drawn by the excitement and money I saw on TV. But after finishing my A-levels and seeing my partner train as a nurse, I realised I wanted work that really mattered.
“A careers adviser introduced me to Ikigai – the idea that fulfilment comes from doing something you love, that the world needs, that you’re good at, and that you can be paid for. Around the same time, I attended a Discovery open day and was drawn to its values: Courage, Ambition, Integrity, Partnership and Respect.
I joined Discovery as a Support Worker, supporting adults with mild learning disabilities, autism and mental health needs. Building relationships and understanding what mattered to each person was the most important part of the role. One of the highlights for me was helping a couple move into their own flat and supporting them to live more independently in their community. Discovery also offered flexible working around my sport, which made a big difference at the time.
I later became a Better Practice Lead, supporting and guiding teams, and then a Locality Manager, focusing on building strong partnerships and embedding person-centred support. I also led the development of the Trusted Assessor role, working with local authority teams to ensure people’s needs, hopes and ambitions were heard, particularly where a full Care Act review wasn’t required. The project has gone from strength to strength, reducing review backlogs and improving outcomes for people we support.”
The work has been recognised externally. Keinan was winner of the Great British Care Awards – South West Region, praised by judges for his curiosity, courage and commitment to person-centred, independence-focused support, and a finalist for the National Learning Disabilities & Autism Awards (NLD&A) – Frontline Leader Award. Feedback from colleagues and partners highlights his ability to take on complex work while always keeping the people we support at the centre. Keinan has also been nominated for the 2026 NLD&A national awards in Birmingham for the Innovation in Care category, and we look forward to finding out more in June.
Most recently, Keinan has been promoted to Operations Director, giving him the chance to shape services more broadly and support colleagues in delivering the best outcomes for the people we support.
From starting as a Support Worker to now leading at an operational level, Keinan’s career reflects what can be achieved with the right support, opportunities and values-led leadership.
If you’re looking for a role where you can make a real difference, develop your skills and build a career you’re proud of, your journey could start here too. Explore Support Worker opportunities near you and see where Discovery could take you.