I have worked for CALC for over 5 years now having started as a volunteer. Prior to this I worked in a firm of Solicitors for over 11 years. Whilst working full time I studied law for 9 years through the Open University and finally graduated with my law degree in 2017. I then began my time in CALC as a volunteer and was subsequently offered a trainee position before becoming a qualified Adviser. I am now also trained in tribunal representation, and I have also carried out various outreach sessions in the community. I enjoy the fast-paced nature of this work; because rules and regulations constantly evolve, and it is essential that we continually keep up to date with changes with training, self-study and courses. I thrive when advocating on behalf of clients on challenging cases, and I am therefore delighted to work for Community Advice Lisburn & Castlereagh who make such a difference to our local community in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area.
I am a generalist adviser with Community Advice Lisburn and Castlereagh. I have recently completed my training for my OCN level 3 in generalist advice through the Law Centre. I previously worked as a trained youth worker doing outreach and in youth centres, but decided it wasn't for me and went on to work in retail.
I have family working in community advice and they suggested I volunteer to see if I like it and instantly had an interest in it. I loved the training and I'm looking forward to expanding my knowledge and having a long-term career in the advice sector.
After completing HNC in working with children and families. I worked in various roles in the community, including, Community Care, Family Centers and Creches. After seeing an advertisement for a trainee post in Community Advice Lisburn & Castlereagh I decided to embark on a change of career.
Working as a trainee generalist adviser with Community Advice Lisburn and Castlereagh is completely different to anything I have done before.
I enjoy the challenge and being able to give back to the community in a new way. I look forward to completing my training and gaining the experience in the advice sector.
I have worked in the voluntary sector for almost fifteen years. My journey started as a volunteer for Home-Start in 2008. In the same year I became a Generalist Advisor with Andersonstown & Suffolk Citizens Advice Bureau. This led to a role on a helpline providing support to those affected by domestic and sexual abuse. Later my role evolved with Nexus, I became the helpline Outreach and Awareness Coordinator. This included training and mentoring helpline volunteers.
My journey has come full circle, now providing generalist advice for Lisburn and Castlereagh Community Advice .
I have a keen interest in social justice, an avid reader and dog lover. I enjoy spending my weekends with my family, normally visiting all the wonderful attractions that Northern Ireland has to offer…and Donegal!
Trainee Debt Adviser
In my early career I worked in the voluntary & charity sector providing help and support to homeless adults. I have also worked with young people, assisting them and teaching them the skills required to live independent lives. I have found it very rewarding advocating on behalf of people. I have worked with the insolvency & debt repayment sector. I am happy to be given an opportunity to train as a debt adviser with Community Advice Lisburn and Castlereagh. I look forward to completing the training and having a fulfilling career in debt advice with a charity organisation.