Paying Staff for Their Hobbies — And Why We Do This

When carers bring their hobbies into their work — baking, crafting, sewing, gardening, photography, painting, or music — the result is a moment shaped by genuine passion. These aren’t generic activities; they are heartfelt interactions that clients remember and cherish.

Because these moments come from real joy, they resonate much more deeply.

One of the biggest reasons we pay staff for their hobbies is the extraordinary impact these personal passions have on the people we support. When carers are encouraged to use what they genuinely enjoy — baking, crafting, organising special moments, or helping with practical tasks — the result is care that feels deeply personal and truly heartfelt.

Across both Lincolnshire and Yorkshire, these moments have shown just how meaningful hobby-led care can be:

• In Lincolnshire, a team member baked and delivered homemade cakes during springtime visits, turning routine appointments into warm, memorable experiences filled with conversation, comfort and a real sense of being cared for.

• Another Lincolnshire carer used their creativity to provide free home-cleaning support to a client whose living space had become overwhelming, helping them regain confidence, calm and independence.

• A Lincolnshire team member lovingly crafted a Dementia Fidget Blanket, using their sewing hobby to offer comfort, sensory stimulation and reassurance tailored to the client’s needs.

• The team prepared and delivered hand-assembled Christmas Dinner Meal Packs to every client in the area, using their cooking and organisation skills to ensure no one spent the festive season without warmth, comfort or companionship.

• The Yorkshire team also used their passion for bringing people together to organise a surprise farewell meal for a long-serving carer — a thoughtful celebration that reflected the same compassion, creativity and community spirit they show to clients every day.

These examples show how paying staff for their hobbies allows them to bring something unique into their work — something that transforms everyday care into meaningful, unforgettable experiences grounded in kindness.

Integrating hobbies into care work allows staff to express themselves, enjoy their time with clients, and feel proud of the impact they make. This boosts wellbeing, reduces stress, and supports long-term job satisfaction.

When carers feel nurtured, clients feel the benefit.

Sharing a hobby naturally opens up conversation, makes visits feel relaxed, and helps clients feel genuine connection. This strengthens the relationship between carers and clients, making care more personal and emotionally supportive.

Task-based care is essential, but it’s not enough. We want every person we support to enjoy moments of joy, creativity and companionship — not just practical assistance.

Paying staff for their hobbies helps us embed this philosophy into everyday care.

Our Acts of Kindness scheme ensures that thoughtful gestures don’t go unnoticed. Kindness is not only encouraged — it’s recognised, appreciated, and rewarded. This strengthens our culture and inspires more creativity across the team.