Another in our series of Meet the Team blogs. Our people are our most valuable asset at Ashdale Care – this month meet Lucy, a Residential Social Care Worker
Tell us a bit about you.
I am 61 years-old, married to Steve, and I live in Clara, North Monaghan. I love learning and travel. I have a life-long curiosity in what makes us tick as human beings. I love life and I am grateful for the many gifts in my life – my partner, family, friends, young people, colleagues, neighbours and community.
Tell us a bit about your career background?
Before joining Ashdale, I worked mostly in retail and office admin, I returned to education in my late forties and trained as a counsellor, working with adults who were experiencing mental health difficulties, living with a cancer diagnosis and/or facing grief and loss.
How long have you worked at Ashdale?
Three-and-a-half years.
Explain your job title and what it entails?
I am a Residential Social Care Worker. My job effectively involves all aspects of parenting, or more appropriately for me ‘grandparenting’ as the young people in Lisdrum House regularly clarify for me, in case of any confusion!
What might an average day look like for you?
My average day includes school runs, drop off and pick up from activities, cooking fine cuisine, some work on an ongoing craft project, a movie and of course a bit of ‘Fortnite’ [for anyone who doesn’t live with teenagers, this is a video game!] viewing, spectator only!
What’s the best thing about working at Ashdale?
The ‘sacred moments’ that are born of trust, when a young person sings or raps their heart out in my company with total ease.
Is there something that has surprised you about working at Ashdale?
It’s a very privileged position and needs to be experienced to be understood. It’s difficult to explain the job to other people.
What’s the first thing you do when you get to work in the morning?
Check in with the young people and my colleagues, exchange hugs, and catch up with what’s been happening.
What might you have been if you hadn’t chosen this career path?
Maybe I’d be a mindfulness teacher – but I might moonlight as one on the side, and get the best of both worlds!