Susan Lawton, Community Support Worker

Susan (Sue) Lawton is a Community Support Worker at the Supported Accommodation and Mobile Community Support service in Tauranga

What attracted me to Richmond was...."My background involved voluntary work in mental health. When my youngest child reached high school I gained my Diploma in Social Practice. Part of the course requirement was doing a work placement and I chose to do this at Richmond. I enjoyed the work placement and this prompted me to apply for full-time work at Richmond NZ."

Compared to my initial expectations, my experience so far in working for Richmond..."Has been challenging. I enjoy working with clients because they all have different personalities and their own unique world view. I really admire the people I support and believe it is a privilege to work with them. Support work requires staff involvement with clients in all aspects of their wellbeing. Once rapport and trust is established most clients are open to sharing these different aspects of their lives."

What I like most about working for Richmond..."Is that the organisation is prepared to look at its practices and processes and is open to change. Richmond genuinely looks at innovative ways of working. Our CEO provides useful information about the 'big picture' and key trends in the industry which helps us to understand why the changes are necessary."

The biggest highlight of my career at Richmoned so far..."Is achieving my National Certificate in Mental Health.  I also attended the Building Bridges Conference in Christchurch and the 'Hearing Voices' workshop where I gained an insight into what it's like for clients who experience schizophrenia."

What I love about my job..."Are the people - both clients and colleagues. The work is person centered, it's about seeing clients move on in their lives and get to the point where they can be discharged from the service. Seeing people achieve their goals and working on their recovery is very satisfying."

A typical day might involve... "A lot of variety.  No two days are the same, especially when working in the mobile community team. A typical day could involve a number of meetings with clients and we need to be flexible and ready to spend more time with a client if they are having a challenging day. There is also the need to problem solve and to work autonomously when necessary."

What I value most about working for Richmond is..."The opportunity for personal growth through challenging experiences. Clients challenge you and provide you with the opportunity to reflect and learn. Team members are encouraged by other members to reflect on their ways of working, and given the opportunity to learn and develop their skills."

I would describe the learning and development opportunities at Richmond as... "Really good. Richmond is aware of the importance of keeping core training up to date and staff completing their minimum qualification. Ongoing training is important as it helps to keep staff motivated and passionate about their work."