I’m Dean, a Project Support Worker at The Sanctuary Trust: Cornerstone. My role is conversational, helping the lads here find their feet again. I can offer computer assistance, information about doctors and benefits, to be a listening ear. Support through their day-to-day needs.
Hi, I’m Gaz, a Project Support Worker here at Sanctuary Trust: Cornerstone. My role is to enable the guys here to be able to recover. Hopefully, to be able to move into their own properties. For example, I’ve helped guys this morning learn how to send emails, add attachments, how to use the dishwasher, look after themselves, and the importance of personal hygiene.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job role?
I like that we get the opportunity to build rapport with the lads here and that it is long-term, so the outcomes are bigger. I like the little steps in someone’s journey, and helping them achieve those goals, even if they’re small. I like having open and honest conversations with people. When someone can open up and share what’s going on. Ultimately, you know that when someone is offloading and sharing, it is the best for them to talk through their issues- simultaneously, that can be the most difficult part. – Gareth
The most rewarding part is when you can see people’s self-improvement. I think the real key to success here is when people are able to move on to live independently. – Dean
Why is Sanctuary Trust different from other organisations?
I think one of the best things about The Sanctuary Trust is the focus on empathy and understanding of people’s situations. Not sitting in judgment of people. Offering practical encouragement for people to make improvements in their lives. – Dean
I like the aspiration of providing 1000 beds, A home for everyone. I admire the aspirations of our development team, and am excited about the compassionate landlord services The Sanctuary Trust can provide. We’re not like other services- I know plenty of colleagues who will spend half a day resolving an issue for a tenant, which truly is compassionate landlording. – Gareth
Do you have any lived experience?
I have experienced my own personal addiction. At certain times in my own life, there have been a couple of times when I have been homeless. I think it helps me to be empathetic toward people’s situations. I am more understanding of some circumstances our residents face that can’t be controlled. I understand the stigma that can be attached to those who are experiencing those issues. -Dean
I have experienced homelessness, struggled with my mental health and addiction. I think it shapes my approach because there is an underlying sense of hope- I know that the experiences I have had can be overcome, and that lives can be changed. I know my experiences have been painful, and I haven’t forgotten about them; they actually shape my approach in work today. – Gareth
What small thing keeps you going through the work day?
Relating with my colleagues. Having proper conversations, checking in with each other. – Gareth
Advice for Day One with Sanctuary Trust
If you’re able to be honest, you’ll get on here. If you’re able to ask for help and be vulnerable, everyone here will go above and beyond to get you where you need to be. – Gareth
