Independent Representative
Category: Volunteers
I thought I would be best suited to the Independent Representation Scheme as it takes place in the Secure Care Residential Centre in Bangor, meeting young people in a group setting on a regular basis.
The initial induction training helped prepare me for the IR role. When I first started however it did take a bit of time to become familiar with the young people, staff and workings of the centre. IRs visit in pairs and this also helped during the first few times at the centre. As time went on I became more comfortable mixing with the young people in the units, which helped them to voice their issues.
Being an IR is a challenging but worthwhile role. I feel it is important for young people in this situation to have someone independent to listen to their issues and help take them forward with Centre staff. Our visits seem to help release some of the frustrations for this group of particularly vulnerable young people during their stay.
I find the support from fellow IRs and the Project Worker both reassuring and encouraging and feel I have gained a lot from this role.