Ordinary people, extraordinary stories.
Project Worker
“I work with male ex-offenders and I help to provide a resettlement service, where we give our residents space to relax while they rebuild their lives. Our hostel is where they prepare for independent living: the next stage is a move out of the hostel into Local Authority or Housing Association property. I work with residents during both stages, until they feel able to continue without our specific support."
“I enjoy working with my residents – I accept them for who they are, people whose pasts might have been less than perfect but who have the potential to become better and more fulfilled individuals. I acknowledge their strengths and weaknesses, and give them comfort and support when they need it. It’s all about customer care in the end, and nothing gives me greater pleasure than to see my residents adopt a place as useful, well-adjusted members of society."
“My life experience has been invaluable in my work, and I worked for many years as a volunteer in a similar setting before deciding on this path for my career. I’ve learned the skills of listening and empathy, teamwork and discipline, all of which have stood me in good stead. But overall, it’s about liking and understanding people, and knowing what it means to be human.”
Project Worker
“I work for a project, which offers short to medium-term supported accommodation to men and women involved with the criminal justice system, as well as to other vulnerable adults. We give them the space and the time to develop their confidence and life skills, so that they can move on into independent lives within the community."
“I like developing relationships in my work, both with my fellow team members and with my residents. I’m a key worker to certain nominated residents, working closely with them to identify their needs and provide solutions. The support I provide ranges from basic life skills, such as budgeting and cooking, to advice on benefits and assistance with interacting with other agencies."
“This is a challenging job, but one with many rewards. You need a great range of skills when dealing with people who are vulnerable and whose lives are very often chaotic. Patience and empathy are important; you must be a good listener, but assertive and with a good sense of humour. Above all, you must like people and be proactive in anticipating problems before they spiral out of control.”