Each issue we profile somebody from Sheffield Mencap and Gateway, to find out more about what makes it such a varied and special place. This autumn we get to know Beth, a Group Leader at Activity Learning Hub.
How long have you been at Sheffield Mencap and Gateway and which roles have you held?
What have you gained through working at SMG?
This is a real challenge to put into words! Having spent a significant amount of time away from employment, raising a young family, working at SMG gave me another identity, a new purpose and direction, and built up my self-confidence in returning to the world of work. More importantly though, I received such a warm welcome and acceptance from staff and members alike, I truly feel I have gained a working family across the SMG community, who continue to surprise, motivate, inspire, and keep me smiling from week to week!
What are your goals for the next year at SMG?
For both groups, my goal is to set units of work and projects that will interest members, be meaningful to them, keep them motivated, make the most of their talents and enable us to celebrate success on completion. In the short term, I hope to settle into my new role as Drama Group Leader and to be open to feedback from all members about what may have worked well or what could be improved to help future planning.
Can you tell us your favourite story or memory from SMG?
This is another tricky one as there are so many! But, a very recent funny story springs to mind: when rehearsing for the Launchpad Festival earlier this year, the facilitators asked the group to contribute a ‘moment of wonder’ for discussion. Members had captured moments such as past holidays, aspects of nature, and scenes from their favourite films beautifully, and I found myself running out of examples. Without knowing where this would lead, I suggested ‘the wonder of childbirth’. Yes, you guessed it, we were then asked to act out our chosen moments! Fortunately, I had a very willing midwife on hand!
How do you balance work and life – what do you do to relax?
Relax? Is this an option?! Having two boys to run around after, life can be pretty hectic. In fact, coming to work at SMG is often a break! But, we try to keep Sundays as a family day and are currently enjoying clocking some of the ‘Ethel’ peaks in the Peak District – there’s 95 of them in total! When I get the chance, I enjoy reading, watching TV, jigsaws, socialising with friends and family, theatre trips, occasional meals out, and holidays. My next one will be to the gorgeous Yorkshire Dales in October half-term.
Finally, tell us a fact about yourself that people at SMG don’t know
I was once the proud owner of signed photographs of Hunter from Gladiators, and Richard Kiel (aka ‘Jaws’ from the James Bond films). Sadly, both went missing during a house move!
