For Careers Week, we’re talking to two of our brilliant keyworkers, who have shared more about their role, skills and experiences.
Meet Barry
Barry is a Keyworker at Lister Project, a role he’s been in for three years. Lister Project is a residential service for adults who have enduring mental health conditions and supports customers to grow their confidence, be more independent, and build on their strengths to support their recovery.
Barry is a music enthusiast and has introduced a music group to Lister Project, which is being enjoyed by many of the customers.
Barry said:
“I wanted to support and assist the homeless community and help to enrich people’s lifestyles by supporting change and helping people in their personal growth.
At the Lister Project I have transferred my skills to support our customers in adapting and learning skills again and leading a more independent lifestyle, while still managing their mental health conditions.”
What skills do you bring to your role and team?
“I am able to think on my feet, while remaining both professional and supportive to our customers – I endeavour to make their lives bright and happy.
I work from a person-centred point of view with each customer, as they are all individuals requiring different needs and support. You need to remember that a customer may have had a bad day and need their own space, and that we work in their home. Being kind, gentle and understanding goes a long way at Lister.
I also support my colleagues and work very closely as a team member and bring ideas to the table.”
What’s your favourite thing about being a keyworker?
“I enjoy the day to day challenges that happen, normally unplanned and spontaneous, and helping our customers grow and enjoy their lives. Watching development within a person’s life is rewarding and gives myself personal growth and determination to carry on.”
What inspired you to set up the music group?
“I am a great music lover and when younger I was a DJ on a pirate radio station and worked in clubs and venues around my home town. I think music brings emotions together, you can be happy, sad, thoughtful – you can escape with music.
At the Lister Project I have brought my music set up in and we get together regularly. We play our favourite songs and ask people why they like them. This helps our customers to express themselves and communicate their thoughts and beliefs.
I currently have two customers who like to free-style rap which is really exciting, and I am introducing them to using microphones and music beats and adapting their lyrics without the use of profanity, but still able to self-express and enjoy.
I do some karaoke and sing along, and have started using cymbals and bongo drums to encourage customers to get more involved and bring the fun factor.
Last year in the garden I had 14 customers and three employees dancing and doing the hokey cokey around the garden – that made me smile!”
A Lister Project customer said: “music group is the highlight of my week!”
What would you say to someone thinking about applying for a keyworker vacancy?
“If you have passion in supporting people to live their best possible life and understanding it’s the small changes that will help an individual grow and become more successful within their own environment, then a keyworker role could be for you!”
