The importance of wrap around support for moving on
‘On the Ground’ with Damon Carroll
Emerging Futures publishes regular blogs about all sorts of topical issues. Now, and throughout 2022, we are turning the spotlight onto the people who work most closely with our service users. Our ‘On the Ground’ feature will give readers an insight into the diversity of our work and the amazing people who make it happen.
In our latest ‘On the Ground’ feature for 2022, we caught up with Housing Project Worker Damon Carroll in Cheshire East. Damon believes people can use their past experiences to help others change – neatly summed up in his mantra “we care cause we’ve been there”. As a keen football fan and mentor of young referees he also sees the positive power of football to motivate young people.
What does your typical day look like?
No two days are the same but typically I try to plan activities for our supported housing residents like cooking or learning other new skills, such as mindfulness and relaxation to improve their mental health. I also network and build connections with local businesses and other support agencies.
What do you hope to achieve in your role?
I believe people can change their lives. For me it’s about breaking the cycle and giving people a chance. Key to that is offering people wrap around support when they leave Emerging Futures to keep them motivated and engaged. A big part of my job is working with local businesses to find employment opportunities for our residents or support with self-employment. I want to get more businesses involved in working with us to improve residents’ life chances.
Where did your passion for supporting other people come from?
From my personal experience. Without going into too much detail I have been round the block once or twice and it has evolved from there. I used to work with Street Soccer Academy which is why I am enthusiastic about the role of sport in helping young people to make positive choices.
What do you wish you’d known before doing this job?
The best preparation is your own life experience and the knowledge you gain through your work. I’m still learning every day and it’s always challenging.
