When asked why she does what she does, Olivia Russell’s answer is simple: it’s all about people. Olivia thrives on meeting new people and is passionate about helping them succeed.

Today, as a recruiter specialising in finding talented social workers and helping them grow their careers, Olivia’s enthusiasm for making a difference is as strong as ever. But her journey didn’t start in recruitment.

A Career Rooted in Care

“There’s a common thread running through my career,” Olivia explains. Growing up with cousins and family friends on the autism spectrum shaped her perspective early on. Autism became more than just a personal connection; it became her professional focus. For nearly a decade, Olivia worked with young people with autism and complex needs, creating an environment where they could thrive.

I loved being present and responding to people’s needs in the moment.

“I loved being present and responding to people’s needs in the moment,” Olivia says. “Whether we were out bowling, at the cinema, or in a café, it was always about encouraging independence and helping them make their own decisions.”

Her approach to autism is refreshingly positive: “Rather than seeing autism as a dis-ability, I think of it as a different ability.” This perspective guided her work, fostering understanding and connection while supporting people developing their independence.

Complex Needs: A Rewarding Career Path

For Olivia, working with people with complex needs never felt like a job. “It’s so natural to form relationships with amazing people and play an active role in their health and wellbeing,” she says. She describes the work as “rewarding, satisfying, and inspiring,” a role where no two days are ever the same.
Careers in complex needs often involve working closely with a small group of individuals. Every person has unique needs, and the role is all about tailoring support to meet them. “You need to take the whole person into account—assist with every aspect of their life and adapt as their needs change,” Olivia explains. “It’s crucial to let them lead the way.”

Social Workers and Early Help

Olivia’s experience gives her a deep appreciation for qualified social workers, particularly those providing early help services to families dealing with complex needs. “These social workers do incredible work,” Olivia says. “They create support packages that address the needs of the whole family, taking the time to understand the children, their parents, and carers. This holistic approach is essential for tackling family challenges and preventing breakdowns.”

A Life-Changing Impact

Looking back on her time working with people with autism and complex needs, Olivia has no regrets. “It was amazing to see how the work I did had a real impact on their lives. It felt like spending time with friends—helping them live their lives to the fullest.”
As Olivia continues to build careers in social care through her current role, her passion for helping people remains at the heart of everything she does. For her, every day is different—and that’s exactly how it should be.