Kevin: Lead Instructor (Day Opportunities)

I started at St Elizabeth's working three days a week as Day Services gardener. However, after around six weeks my manager approached me and said “it’s about time we organised some groups for you to work with”. I remember thinking “Oh goodness, that wasn’t why I came to work here”, but after I got over the initial shock I decided that it would either work or it wouldn’t and I wouldn’t know unless I tried. 14 years later, I’m still here and now I also coordinate groups and line manage staff!  

Prior to working at St Elizabeth’s I had worked in a variety of different jobs ( as diverse as antiques and factory work!), chopping and changing job when I got fed up or wanted more money. I had always been a ‘’people person’’ though and a ‘’good communicator’’ but at that time I didn’t value these as skills and I never thought I would find a job where these skills would be so important.

I still remember that when I arrived at St Elizabeth’s and entered the field of Learning Disabilities, it didn’t take me long to realise that underneath the cloak of disability, there is always a human being who is a true individual – someone with feelings, humour – and sometimes mischief (just like me!).

In my current role as Lead instructor, I strive to enable residents to reach levels of achievement that once would have been thought impossible. The residents today are encouraged and assisted to pursue their interests, which can range from shopping and socialising to horse riding, canoeing, rock climbing or even abseiling.

Seeing people achieve a greater sense of independence and fulfilment is amazing. In fact, it’s debateable who gets the greater sense of achievement, the resident or myself!