Meet Our Staff: Alex (Learning & Wellbeing)

At Providence Row, it’s our brilliant staff who make our day centre run smoothly and efficiently - not only for us but also our clients affected by homelessness. 

We’d love for you to get to know the faces behind our charity. This month we’re introducing you to Alex, our Wellbeing Coordinator.

Tell us more about your role at Providence Row?

I am the Wellbeing Coordinator. I oversee the running of Providence Row’s wellbeing service. In addition, I facilitate the men’s group, interactive addiction support and the music group. I also oversee both internal and external sessional workers – for instance, the professionals who deliver acupuncture, homeopathy and counselling. 

What do you like most about your job?

I love working with our clients, especially the human connection it brings. I love the process of group work and one-to-ones. I’m quite a musical person so getting creative with the music group is great. I’ve learnt so much about myself and others, particularly around developing self-worth. I’ve shared my own experiences about addiction and have learnt so much from others. 

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job? 

Many of our clients have experienced trauma, which can make progression more difficult. Sadly, the effects this has on someone’s wellbeing are huge. This is especially noticeable in individuals’ self-worth. This can lead to real barriers in a person making deep and long-lasting changes. 

Your favourite moment(s) so far at Providence Row? 

My favourite moment was our recent “Rising” performance evening at a renowned local community arts centre called RichMix. It was co-produced by our entire music group. It was all about celebrating creativity with our clients, volunteers and staff. Everyone put so much work into it. It was wonderful to be there all-together. I was so proud of everyone. It takes a lot of courage to go out there and perform in front of strangers. The feedback has been great. We had over 100 people in the audience!

What are you goals here at Providence Row? 

I’d like to continue to engage clients in the community. Breaking down the barriers and stigma that our clients face is important to me. I am keen to build better professional relationships with our clients. I also want to continue to grow professionally in my own way. And I’d really like to continue to improve my knowledge in the field of mental health and well-being.