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Learning together as people take the lead in their lives, creating new opportunities to connect within their communities.

Karen Hodgkinson

Service Coordinator

What people like and admire about me

  • I am friendly and approachable.
  • Respectful and non-judgmental
  • I keep it real, seeing situations for what they are.
  • I am a good listener and open to ideas.
  • Passionate and adopt a person-centred approach.
  • Accepting of people’s ways without judgement. Integrity.

What is important to me as a Team Leader

  • To have a holistic Person-centred approach.
  • Humour – to be able to lighten situations with a good laugh.
  • Getting to know the people that are being supported and learning about their lives.
  • Knowing that the people being supported are satisfied with the service they receive.
  • To know that support staff are feeling supported and recognised for their individual skills.
  • Working in a team – sharing workloads ~ collaboration – I value other’s ideas and thoughts.
  • To have variety in my work.
  • Working with the diversity of people.
  • Honesty, trust, integrity and respect.
  • To be flexible and accommodating, open to ideas and suggestions and to learn from others.
  • To be kept informed of any changes that could impact on my role.
  • Clear, honest communication.

How best to support me as a Team Leader

  • If my communication is not clear, please tell me and ask for clarification.
  • Be honest with me; I appreciate feedback so please tell me.
  • I may require time to process information before responding. Give me time.
  • I like to talk things through and hear other points of views and ideas.
  • I like to consult with others before making decisions; I believe in a collaborative approach.
  • I don’t like to be ‘bomb-barded’ with information. If too much is happening at once I can feel overwhelmed – give me time to breath.
  • I need opportunities to reflect and ‘bounce’ ideas around with others
  • I like humour to lighten the heavy moments.
  • If I am quiet, there is something going on.
  • If I am upset about something I need to verbalise it, so as to get clarity in my own mind
  • I do make mistakes and I am willing to learn from them, so please tell me if they impact on you.
  • Having things ‘to do’ written down helps. I can forget things.
  • I do need to get out in the fresh air to clear my mind.
  • Chocolate is always a welcome medication.