Another in our series of Meet the Team blogs. Our people are our most valuable asset at Ashdale Care – this month meet Devon, who has joined our Senior Practitioner programme
Tell us a bit about you.
My name is Devon and I’m originally from Roscommon. I moved up to Louth when the pandemic started to begin working at Ashdale, and have loved exploring all the beaches and walks the coastal ‘wee county’ has to offer. I love reading, painting and cooking. I have a cat called Nala – everyone at Glyde House will confirm that I love her dearly, because I never stop talking about her!
Tell us a bit about your career background?
My background is in psychology, and I obtained my degree and masters in Maynooth University and Trinity College Dublin respectively. Before joining Ashdale Care, I worked with children with autism, and also carried out voluntary work for a charity crisis helpline and a CBT programme for women with breast cancer.
How long have you worked at Ashdale?
I’ve worked at Ashdale Care since August 2020.
Explain your job title and what it entails?
I’ve recently begun the Senior Practitioner programme, which I’m really enjoying. It involves giving a hand to management and key workers where needed, supporting the team and helping out with petty cash, budgets and other fun stuff! I’m also a keyworker, and so advocate for that young person.
What might an average day look like for you?
The beauty of working in Glyde House is that no two days are the same, but they’re always busy! The day starts with a catch-up, handover and breakfast if there’s time. After that we’re usually out and about doing school runs, shopping, OT (occupational therapy), bringing our young people to see family or friends, or carrying out some fun activities alongside them.
What’s the best thing about working at Ashdale ?
Making special memories with the young people. It really is a privilege to be so involved in the young people’s childhoods. It’s a very special time in someone’s life, and it’s up to us to make it the best we can for them. Being involved in birthdays, Christmases, and graduations has been such an honour. There’s also something special about the day-to-day activities, even if it’s just going for a drive, helping with homework or watching a movie together. Seeing the young people happy and knowing you’re a part of that is special.
Is there something that has surprised you about working at Ashdale
The young people we work with never cease to amaze me, considering all they have been through – yet they are still open and willing to build relationships. The resilience and strength they show, and openness to love and support, baffles me.
What’s the first thing you do when you get in to work in the morning?
Say good morning and catch up with any young people that are in the house/awake. Coffee is usually the first port of call too!