Hiya, I’m Gwen, and I manage Sanctuary Trust Cornerstone. I’ve been in the role for nearly two years now, and I look after a team of four brilliant support staff.
Together, we support the residents in our hostel and move-on accommodation, making sure they’re getting the help they need.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job role?
Honestly? It’s when someone reaches a goal- big or small, doesn’t matter. That’s the rewarding part.
Success looks different for everyone. For one person, it might just be managing to get to a doctor’s appointment, that’s a massive step for someone who’s been avoiding it for years. For others, it’s staying sober for a stretch, or finding their own place- either with the council or privately. That’s always lovely to see.
Even when things don’t go quite to plan, like if someone ends up needing more intensive support or goes back into rehab, I still find that rewarding. It means they’re in the right place for where they’re at, and we’ve played a part in helping them get there.
What Makes Sanctuary Trust Different?
The big thing for me is that we give people a chance, people who wouldn’t usually get one. A lot of the lads who come through our doors have burned bridges with family, friends, other services, they’ve run out of options.
But at Sanctuary, we don’t just look at someone’s risk assessment and write them off. We see the person behind all that. Maybe that’s down to our Christian ethos – it does shape the way we approach things here.
We’re not here to judge. I’d rather give someone the opportunity, even if it doesn’t work out, than turn them away and not let them have a go at turning things round. Our staff with lived experience help with that too. They get it – and the lads know they get it. It puts people at ease; shows we’re not just another service in a suit. We’re human, we’re approachable, and that makes all the difference.
What Do You Wish People Knew About People Struggling with Substance Misuse/Housing Issues?
That it could be anyone. They say you’re one pay packet away from being in the same position, especially with how things are now with the cost of living, rent, bills.
Everyone’s got something they’re dealing with, some trauma or hurt. Turning to drink or drugs isn’t something that only happens to “other people”. It’s a coping mechanism, and once you’re in it, getting out isn’t simple.
People say things like “just get a job”, but it’s not that easy. There are so many barriers. And if someone doesn’t have a support network? How are they meant to manage it all on their own? It’s not fair to judge when you don’t know the full story, and most people don’t.
What small thing keeps you going through the work day?
Pepsi Max, for a start – I’ve always got a bottle under the desk for a quick caffeine boost!
And laughter. You have to laugh, don’t you? Even when the days are hard- and they can be, working with lads in addiction, lads who’ve had it rough with their families, or who don’t know what’s next – sharing a laugh lifts the mood. For the staff and the residents. Makes the day feel a bit lighter.
Advice for Day One with The Sanctuary Trust
If you’re coming in as a resident, this is your fresh start. Grab it. Lots of lads move in and don’t ask for support or make a real change. We’ve got tools and support ready for you, but it’s down to you to use them.
If you’re starting as a staff member, just be yourself. Honestly. I’ve found that when I’m open about how I’m doing and just show up as myself, people respond to that. No one working here is going to think you’re weird or too much – we’re all just people.
