“I worked for 30 years in mental health services initially as a clinician and for many years as a manager. Real Lives has given us opportunity to invest in and develop our workforce whilst providing people with a service that is designed for them, as well as running the lovely Crocus café. I want to contribute to a positive, recovery focused culture, making sure there is lots of fun and laughter along the way.”

“I worked for Nottinghamshire Healthcare Trust for many years before setting up Real Lives as a non-salaried co-director. I worked as a community nurse, a team manager and lastly as the project manager for the Peer Support Service, all demonstrating to me that what people really need is someone to believe in them, the chance to develop their skills and the opportunity to use them in their daily lives.”

“I have worked in a healthcare setting in an admin capacity for over 30 years. I am passionate about supporting people with mental health problems and proud to work at Real Lives, a company that makes a real difference to those we support, where the company ethos is to treat everyone as a person and not a number! My main role is to keep the building up and running and make sure all the paperwork is in order.”

“Having worked in the not-for-profit sector for the last 19 years providing administrative support to a number of Nottingham-based charities and community organisations, I have gained great satisfaction in helping to support the local community and particularly those residents in need. I enjoy being part of the Real Lives family and in helping make a difference to people’s lives. I work full-time in the office and will usually be the person at the other end of the phone for anyone wishing to ring the office phoneline.”

“My support style is open and positive. I enjoy getting to know people by listening and chatting. I am patient and reliable – if I say I’m going to do something I will do my best to make sure I do. I like supporting people to find solutions and am happy to find out about different options, so people can make choices that suit them. I’m happy to support people with different tasks. I enjoy finding out what people are interested in, as well as sharing my own interests.”
 

“I have worked at Real Lives since 2014 when studying for my health and social care degree. I am down to earth and have a casual working style in a non-judgemental way. I enjoy helping organise where needed, attending people’s appointments, helping out around the house, as well as community activities such as walking and groups. In 2018 I became Assistant Manager, this role now includes setting up and co-ordinating packages, developing wellness and safety plans and supervising PALs.”

“For the past 32 years I have worked in mental health for the NHS I have taken early retirement ( I’m still young at heart) and I feel I still have a lot more to offer. I am really excited to join the Real Lives Family and am committed to providing a holistic approach to individual’s needs, giving a tailored plan of care to support and recovery. I love to laugh and hear laughter; I so believe laughter is the best medicine. I am a bit of a chatterbox so will stop here and welcome you to join us.”

“I have worked for Real lives since 2015 and I am passionate about community support work, and enjoy caring for and encouraging people to reach their goals. I am an active and motivated person and Horse riding is one of my passions alongside the gym, swimming, shopping and walks. I feel I am easy to get on with, I give my all in helping people out and I have a lot of compassion and care to share in my working role, whilst being efficient in the more practical tasks!”