Individuals with lived experience continue to enrich our workforce.
Gavin first connected with Sanctuary Trust through a referral to the Wellbeing Hub at the Reaching Out Centre (ROC) in Rochdale. He wasn’t from the area and arrived in a difficult place, facing housing insecurity, substance misuse, and trying to find his footing in a new environment.
Over time, with more stable accommodation and regular support, Gavin became a familiar face at the ROC. He got to know the staff, the space, and began to see a different way forward.
Gavin applied to become a volunteer at the ROC café — and from that day forward, he made a major change: he stopped using cannabis entirely. With structure, responsibility, and a sense of belonging, he began to reconnect with things he used to enjoy: fishing, the gym, and time with family.
As his involvement grew, so did his contribution. When the café was closed, Gavin helped with furniture moves and odd jobs across Sanctuary’s local projects. Eventually, he took the lead in painting the rooms at our STEP project, even mentoring a younger volunteer who joined him along the way.
Last week, Gavin officially became a Sanctuary Trust staff member — a huge milestone, and one that speaks to his commitment, resilience, and the positive role of lived experience in our workforce. He has also completed a media city run, continuing to push forward, both personally and professionally.
Gavin’s journey shows what can happen when someone is given the time, space, and trust to grow — and how the right environment can bring out the best in people.
