Ategi Inspires Future Social Care Workforce
Social care needs champions who can inspire the next generation—and Richard Cox is proving exactly what that looks like. This week, the Ategi Head of Services was recognised for his outstanding contribution as a We Care Wales Ambassador, celebrating his work promoting social care and Shared Lives across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.
Inspiring Future Social Care Professionals
Richard has delivered impactful sessions across local schools and colleges—including St Cyres, St Teilo’s and Cardiff & Vale College—and has represented the sector at major job fairs such as Cardiff City Stadium, Sophia Gardens and the STAR Hub Health Fair. His outreach has helped learners understand the diverse roles within social care and the unique benefits of the Shared Lives model.
"Being an ambassador isn’t just about promoting jobs; it’s about showing the human impact of care and inspiring people to see it as a career of choice" - Richard
His work has sparked new curriculum partnerships with Cantonian High School, Stanwell High School, Llantwit Major High School and Ysgol Y Deri, embedding social care and Shared Lives within Health & Social Care lessons. This ensures young people gain real-world insight into person-centred support and the diverse careers available.
Recognition and Sector Leadership
Richard’s dedication was celebrated at the Cardiff & Vale Regional Workforce Partnership Awards, where he received an accolade for his ambassadorial work.
"Richard’s commitment to workforce development is exemplary. His passion for Shared Lives and social care is helping to build a sustainable future for the sector" - Kate Allen, Ategi’s Chief Executive Officer
Richard’s ambassadorial work has drawn praise from educators, partners, and colleagues alike. Careers Wales representatives have praised his proactive involvement, and schools have described his sessions as ‘inspiring and informative.’ Internal feedback highlights the impact of his work and the way it continues to raise Ategi’s profile and strengthen collaboration across the sector.
Why It Matters
With social care in Wales facing ongoing recruitment challenges, ambassadors like Richard play a vital role in building a sustainable workforce. By engaging directly with young people and jobseekers, he’s raising the profile of innovative models like Shared Lives and encouraging people to see social care as a career that delivers real social value.
Would you like to find out more about a career in social care with Ategi?
Being an ambassador isn’t just about promoting jobs; it’s about showing the human impact of care and inspiring people to see it as a career of choice
Want to read more about how Ategi is improving staff retention in social care?
Read about how Ategi is supporting the IMPACT project and Improving Adult Social Care Together, by acting as a case study of good practice. This UK-wide initiative brings together five universities and numerous partners to explore how evidence-informed change can improve social care, focusing on the experiences of those who draw on care and support from, and work in, the sector.
About the author
Ategi comms
This post was written by the Ategi comms team.