In the Spotlight – Debbie Bird, Project Worker

Working with a wide range people, building up relationships, trust and to provide the support and help they need to help them to move on with their lives. It requires sensitivity and understanding to their own unique situation. It is an incredibly rewarding job.

Alcohol took me to a very dark place some years ago. I completely depleted my family friends support network through drink, I felt everyone had given up on me, and it took me a long time to climb back out that black hole. Years later I found support in AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) which saved my life. I now am able to help and support others through their journey. And work at st Paul hostel a job I love.

I have seen a lot while working here; memorable moments when people have moved on from the hostel, and re visited us a year later who have changed their lives. Seeing people go on to rehab and tackle their addiction.

We have developed a ‘walling group’ on a Wednesday morning. I love being part of this group. It gives residents time away from the hostel, helps their physical and mental health.  People open up and share their stories with me a lot.

I had heard a lot about St Paul’s and had wanted to work in this field of work for some time. Being in recovery from alcohol for twelve years myself, I wanted to help others by understanding what they are going through as I had been through a similar situation.

Donating to the homeless can provide a stable place for people to live, providing accommodation, giving people the time and space to recover and helping people to learn new skills and reconnect.

I would say to anyone thinking of working here it’s so rewarding job, you just need to be able to listen, have empathy and understanding; to just listen is all they want sometimes.

Remember anyone could end up in this situation and remember people can change.