What are your areas of special interest / particular skills?
My area of special interest is children safeguarding. I am currently a safeguarding lead for GDAS within the North, Blaenau Gwent area.
What do you enjoy most about your role with Barod?
Variety! There is so much to get involved in when working with Barod. I’ve covered a few roles in the 12 years i’ve been working with Barod. Outreach, probation, alcohol caseworker, GOALS caseworker to name a few. There’s always a new challenge that keeps me fresh and i’m always learning new skills. The staff are all great too.
What is it like to work in your area of Wales or in your specific service?
I work at present as part of a consortium called the Gwent Drug and Alcohol Service in Blaenau Gwent. It’s such a rewarding and fulfilling job to be able to work every day, helping other people. It’s great that Blaenau Gwent has this service in the area.
Please tell us about your average day.
An average day for me would be travelling between the two Blaenau Gwent bases to see clients. I also work in the needle exchange at both premises giving out paraphernalia to clients. Within the working week I will often attend safeguarding type meetings which I particularly enjoy.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Learn from the clients! The clients have all the experience when it comes to substance. We can learn a great deal from them if we listen.