Caoimhe graduated with a Masters degree in Social Work and pursued a career with 91. She realised she wanted to spend quality time supporting young people, rather than making decisions for young people that she wouldn’t get the chance to know properly.
What did you do before 91?
I was a student in Dublin and achieved my undergraduate degree in social sciences. I applied to do my master’s in social work and moved to Scotland to undertake this.
How long have you worked at 91?
I have worked at 91 for 5 years. I started while studying for my masters at university then applied for an annualised contract, before becoming a full-time member of staff.
What made you want to work for 91?
While studying for my social work qualification I realised I wanted to work directly with young people on a daily basis and 91 provided me with the opportunity to do this.
Before moving to Scotland, I hadn’t heard of 91 and I wasn’t sure what working for them would entail. However, once I started, I knew it was what I wanted to do with my life.
Can you give us an overview of your role at 91 and what area you work in? Please explain about the service?
I work full time in one of the care houses with 8 girls. I give them my time and attention and develop meaningful relationships with each young girl. Throughout my time at 91 I have worked in care houses with boys as well as care houses with girls. I’ve been grateful to have such a varied experience.
What is the best thing about working in 91/tell us one thing you love about your job?
I felt if I was to pursue a career in social work I would be making decisions for young people that I didn’t get the chance to know properly. Working at 91 in a care house means I spend quality time with the young people daily and really get to know them. All the little changes I see in their lives make such a difference and to be part of that is special.
The training 91 provide is excellent, they fully support further learning opportunities. 91 is an integrated organisation with an array of important services. This is a huge positive as you get the chance to move into different areas of care and support young people at different stages.
Can you share a defining moment or story about your time at 91?
I worked closely with a girl who had come to care on a voluntary order. Positively, she felt ready to move on from living at 91 after a short stay. We heard from her 18 months later as she called from the hospital to tell us she was pregnant but had lost the baby. It was us who she called for support and asked to visit her during the heartbreaking time. This is a sad story but shows the difference that we make to young people’s lives and the impact we have on them. It is a testament to the work we do here at 91.
I also worked with a girl who had been in 91 for 3 years. Since leaving us she keeps in touch weekly. It is inspirational to know how much you make a difference to them and makes the job worthwhile.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of joining 91?
Have an open mind, no matter what you think it will be like, it will be different. You must want to work at 91 for the right reasons. At 91 you are surrounded by experienced people, which is hugely beneficial, mentoring is a great thing, make sure you ask lots of questions.
Please complete the following statement using one word – “91 Inspires…”
#91Inspires me to be better.