I have passion, drive and a desire to invest in young people’s lives, seeing them grow into maturity and independence as well as supporting those who have faced challenging issues in their life. I have gained a wealth of professional knowledge through college, university, working as an Integrated Youth Support Worker for Croydon Council, working as a Youth Violence intervention worker in a hospital setting and mentoring in various primary schools, secondary schools and a Pupil Referral Unit in London. Within my various roles, I have built strong relationships with Hospital staff, Early Help Workers, YOS Workers, Gang Preventive Workers, Social Workers and Housing Officers. I also regularly contact Victim Support, MIND, Family Mediation services, Safer London, Prince's Trust, LEAP, children centres, youth clubs and Job Centre plus to support adolescents. When working with young people at risk of harm and young people in need, I do a strength based assessment. Using the signs of safety and well-being model, I explore what’s working well. For example, protective factors such as personal, family, education and social factors. I then look at what is not going well and how best to move forward by looking at the strengths in their lives and setting realistic action plans. I am committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. I also recognise the importance of treating individuals equally and with respect regardless of their age, cultural background, gender, physical ability, sexuality, race or religion. Due to my non-judgemental approach to working with people, I am able to speak to families and colleagues to build strong relationships.