Member News: “St Christopher’s impressed me with the child-centred way they work”

Find out more about the support we offer young people aged 16+ who live in a semi-independent home. Hear from our Head of supported accommodation & housing management Martin, and his career with St Christopher’s.

Why did you want to work at St Christopher’s?
I worked in publishing for 16 years, writing for young people. At the same time, I did lots of voluntary work, running youth groups and activity holidays for teenagers. I wanted to work full time, supporting young people to achieve their goals, no matter what start in life they have had. St Christopher’s impressed me with the child-centred way they work and this has not changed in the 9 years I have been with the organisation.

What do you enjoy about your job?
I enjoy the variety of the role, every day is very different. I enjoy getting out and about more, visiting services and seeing the great work our staff do with young people. I also really enjoy working with young managers and team leaders who show such commitment and enthusiasm for what they do.

What other development opportunities have you had?
I joined St Christopher’s on the Fast Track to Management scheme. This allowed me to work at a whole variety of St Chris services and learn the ropes as a support worker. I then received management training and was given the opportunity to be a Team Leader (and then acting manager) at a semi-independent home for young people aged 16+. After which, I progressed to be a manager at another property before having the opportunity to be seconded to the post of Implementation and Project Manager. This turned into a full time role, helping set up brand new services such as a children’s home and our Trusted Spaces initiative. During this time, St Christopher’s supported me to achieve the Prince2 qualification in project management. Since then I have taken on the role of Head of Supported Accommodation. There have been loads of development opportunities since joining St Christopher’s.
 
What is next in your career?
For now I am concentrating on my relatively new role and in setting up the two new exciting London Accommodation Pathfinder services to help young people in the Criminal Justice System.
 
What would you say to someone interested/ looking to join the profession?
Look into it! Do some research, talk to people, and find out more! I took a risk in moving from a completely different profession to work at St Christopher’s and I am extremely glad I did.

Source:
www.stchris.org.uk

---