What did you do before Kibble?
I was a professional footballer and played for St. Mirren and Everton. I had left school to pursue a career in football and it was all I had ever known. I decided I wanted to accomplish something else for my future and start a career that helped make a difference to people. That’s where my Kibble journey began. I left professional football to take a step into the unknown and have never looked back.
How long have you worked at Kibble?
Overall four years. I started in an administrative role before becoming a Child and Youth Care Worker. I can see my future with Kibble and look forward to continuing to work here supporting the young people.
What made you want to work for Kibble?
My dad worked at Kibble so I had grown up hearing of his experiences, which had always interested me. When I joined the administrative team, I saw for myself the impact Kibble has on changing the lives of young people for the better even though I wasn’t directly working with them. That’s why I applied to work as part of the care team.
Can you give us an overview of your role at Kibble and what area you work in? Please explain about the service?
I work with young people who are moving on from our Safe Centre. We follow a set daily routine as they enjoy knowing in advance their plans for the week ahead. Currently, the young people I work with are attending education, which staff support daily. For the young people who have left school, they have a placement at Kibbleworks to gain vital work experience that is required for the future. At Kibble, we’re fully prepared to help young people grow in the right direction and guide them to keep up a positive attitude and make plans for their future.
Providing structure, along with building meaningful relationships with the young people, are at the heart of my work. Overall, I show the young people I am available at all times and I prove to them that they can trust me.
What is the best thing about working in Kibble/tell us one thing you love about your job?
The young people! I am only 22 so they see me as an older brother. We easily relate to one another and have a similar sense of humour.
Can you share a defining moment or story about your time at Kibble?
The bond I have with the first young person I met has been significant in my time at Kibble. I’ll be walking across the main campus and when they spot me they run over to have a chat. We regularly catch-up and I am pleased they know they can talk to me about anything.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of joining Kibble?
Be open-minded! Yes, there are challenging days but the rewarding days far out-weigh them.
Please complete the following statement using one word – “Kibble Inspires…”
#KibbleInspires… me!