Bringing Activities to Life: Ashley's Career Story

At We Change Lives, every team member helps make life richer, more meaningful, and full of connection for the people we support. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Ashley Martin, a brilliant Activity Partner at Bee Fold.

A Journey of Growth for Ashley

Ashley first joined Bee Fold back in June 2018 as a support worker. In April 2025, she stepped into a brand-new role as an Activity Partner – the first time the service had introduced this position.

“I was unsure I would be any good at managing this type of job as I’d always only done care... I attended the interview and was excited with what the job would include and thought it was something I could do quite well!”

What started as a bit of a leap has become a role where Ashley really makes a difference every day. 🌟

A Day in the Life of an Activity Partner

Ashley’s days are full of variety, creativity, and meaningful connections – with some days on the floor with residents and others focused on planning behind the scenes:

On the floor:

• Opening the activity room and checking equipment

• Checking in with staff and residents

• Delivering 1:1 and group activities

• Completing daily activity planners

Office days:

• Reviewing care plans and activity assessments

• Working on residents’ goals and aspirations

• Planning themed weeks (safeguarding, infection control)

• Organising community trips and meaningful experiences

It’s a balance of hands-on fun and thoughtful preparation – all with the goal of making sure the people we support can enjoy experiences that feel personal, meaningful, and empowering.

Why Ashley Loves Her Role

“The best thing about my job is putting a system in place that focuses on person-centred activities and not just a tick-box exercise. I feel I’m contributing to our residents’ lives in a different way now and have time to focus on giving them the best quality life.”

Ashley has seen first-hand the difference this makes:

“Some of the people we support struggle with anxiety and being able to offer one-to-one activity time has made such a difference. It allows them to enjoy activities and participate in social engagement, which is essential for positive mental health and wellbeing. One goal at a time, we are making such a difference!”

Life at WCL

Ashley describes We Change Lives’ culture as warm and supportive:

“I see every day how much emphasis is placed on creating a sense of community and belonging for the people we support. The team is wonderful and everyone is always there for each other.”

For Ashley, it’s the friendly, supportive team that makes WCL a great place to work. It’s a place where team members look out for one another and the people we support are always at the heart of what we do. 🧡