Brothers of Charity Services provides supports to over 7,000 people with an intellectual disability or autism and operates in almost 1,000 locations throughout Ireland including Cork, Waterford, Limerick and Tipperary.
Staff are recruited from a wide variety of backgrounds including social care, psychology, speech and language therapy, social work, physiotherapy, teaching and nursing.
Lindsay Hope is a Senior Instructor with Brothers of Charity Services and is based in Fermoy. She began her career as an art teacher having obtained an art degree at Manchester University. Lindsay volunteered with the Services when her children were younger and primarily focused on delivering art activities with the People Supported in Castlehyde Day Service in Fermoy. She then worked as an instructor, before moving into her current role.
Lindsay explains: “I have always enjoyed working with people and I am passionate about supporting people to live their lives to the fullest. My background in art meant that I possess the skills to devise programmes that would be of interest to persons supported. My experience as a volunteer was invaluable and I’ve studied the work of people such as Temple Grandin, who wrote about her experiences of being an autistic person. This further inspired me to pursue a career in the ID sector.”
Lindsay supports people to connect with the local community through exhibitions, social outings and by being part of community groups. Her work at Castlehyde Day Service involves both 1-to-1 and small group work. Activities are chosen by people supported by the Services and can include horticulture, horse riding, swimming, literacy, art, cooking, daily living skills and pottery to name but a few. There are also seasonal trips to the pantomime, Funderland or cinema, which are greatly enjoyed by all.
“I’ve learnt so much in my role such as communication skills, organisational skills and team work,” Lindsay said. “Every day is different and this means that being able to adapt to situations and being flexible in my approach to my role is a key skill. Training in key areas such as meds management and positive behaviour support have allowed me to further my skills and knowledge. The role is sometimes challenging, but it is always interesting!
“I love working with the people supported and all their different personalities and characters. I enjoy supporting them in achieving their personal goals and seeing the positive impact this has on their lives. I really love working with my colleagues who provide a strong team with a varied skill set. We share ideas and work together to provide support and motivation.
“Castlehyde Day Service is in such a beautiful, unique setting. The building and grounds are stunning and the peaceful setting and environment is vital for the holistic welfare of all who attend, as well as being on the doorstep of a tight knit community in Fermoy.”
To find out more about working with Brothers of Charity Services, please visit careers.brothersofcharity.ie
