I bring to my work the insight and empathy that come from lived experience. I have been in recovery from alcohol since May 2018, and my journey deeply informs how I support others in theirs.
I chose to work at Abbington House because of its strong ethical foundation, culture of compassion, and sense of community. Our treatment approach is person-centred, recognising that every client’s journey is unique and deserving of kindness and respect. Having been through residential treatment myself, I understand first-hand how transformative that environment can be. After a decade of trying and failing to recover alone, my time in treatment was the turning point, it gave me the foundation to rebuild my family relationships and, most importantly, my relationship with myself.
Throughout my recovery, I’ve volunteered with organisations such as CGL, Enfield Enable, and taken 12-Step fellowship meetings into HMS Pentonville Prison. I’ve also sponsored many people in recovery. While the journey is often difficult and relapse common, I believe that recovery flourishes in a supportive community, where professionals and peers work together towards the shared goal of wellness.
Abbington House has given me the opportunity to continue developing professionally and personally. As a support worker, I engage with clients in a person-centred way, listening with empathy, offering presence, and holding hope for those who may not yet have it for themselves.
After earlier careers in hospitality and the building trade, returning to study counselling at 50 has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. My lived experience and my commitment to being non-judgemental, help clients find the courage to speak their truth, because that’s when real change begins.