When you hear “adult social care,” you might just think it’s just a job - helping people with day-to-day stuff. But for many, it’s built community, laughter, and real friendships that last a lifetime. That’s what happened for Vicki and Chloe.
The story of Vicki
Vicki has congenital muscular dystrophy, a muscle-wasting condition that affects her entire body, including her breathing, organs, and ability to walk. Vicki lives with her partner, Keegan, who provides most of her day-to-day care, but she still needs additional support, like help getting dressed, fed and ready each day. Despite these limitations, she’s passionate about live music, concerts, festivals, and having a giggle.
More about Chloe – a carer that would become her best friend
Before Chloe met Vicki, she was juggling a part-time job in adult social care, another job at a school, and a busy family life. She’d always loved her job in care, and never thought that one day she’d meet a client that would become her best friend.
How did Chloe and Vicki meet
The two met at the funeral of a mutual friend, a day that ended up changing the course of both of their lives forever. They got chatting, instantly connected, and when Vicki later needed to hire a personal assistant, Chloe was just the right fit. So, Chloe quit her other jobs, and the rest was history.
A day in the life of Chloe and Vicki
Each day begins when Chloe arrives in the morning, ready to help Vicki with her daily routine. Chloe supports Vicki to get out of bed, gives her medication, assists her in the bathroom with personal care, prepares her food and gets her ready for the day. Their days are also filled with laughter, dancing and the occasional attempt to learn the bongos. Chloe supports Vicki three days a week, which means between days with Vicki, Chloe has time for her other commitments, including spending time with her kids
Work doesn’t feel like work when Chloe and Vicki are together. Their life together is full of meals out, seeing friends, going to concerts, raves, and the occasional cheeky trip to Ibiza.
“I love Ibiza,” Vicki says. “It’s my favourite place”
“We have loads of fun,” Chloe agrees.
Since the day Chloe and Vicki met, their friendship has continued to grow stronger. Vicki gets invited to Chloe’s family gatherings, her kids' sports days, and the two hang out regularly, even on the days Chloe isn’t working.
Chloe says: “We’ve grown more of a connection like family now. We’ve become a family unit.”
Vicki agrees: “She’s like a sister to me. I feel like I’ve known her forever; it’s so strange. Even though it’s only been three years. I’d be lost without her.”
Why you should consider a career in adult social care
Adult social care is about more than just helping with daily tasks, it’s about supporting people to live independently, build relationships, and enjoy life. There are many different roles and career paths in social care, with opportunities for training and progression.
If you’re reading Chloe and Vicki’s story and reconsidering your career path, you’re not alone. (Hello? Who doesn’t want to go to concerts with their best mate on a work day?)
A career in adult social care isn’t just a job - it’s a passion which connects, empowers, and changes people’s lives. Everyone brings something unique to caring, whether your strength is empathy, patience, organisation, humour, or resilience.
Curious about what a career in care is really like?
Take the Care Quiz to learn more and challenge your assumptions
Thomas Thorn