How HATP helped me in my job - Ciara from Methodist City Mission

Ciara Duffy is a Resettlement Officer, with North West Methodist Mission. She recently attended out Housing Advice Training Programme in Derry/Londonderry. Here, she explains how undertaking the 4 day course has helped her do her job. 

I attended the Housing Advice Training Programme as I had recently changed roles within the North West Methodist Mission Homeless Hostel. I understood the processes involved in securing alternative accommodation in assisting our residents from homelessness to home; I had the basic knowledge but lacked confidence surrounding the actual legalities. With my change in employment I wanted to ensure I understood the rights of service users whether entering private or social housing; ensuring I knew would mean that I could appropriate advice and empower those I work for, our service users.

In addition to this, colleagues had previously attended this training and they highly recommended the course.

My favourite sections within the training was the fact that the case studies permitted you to apply your learning. It demonstrated the positive implications the training could have for your service users. It dispelled many myths that exist among service users in relation to housing.

The facilitator was brilliant; extremely welcoming, friendly and engaging. Questions and scenarios are invited and offered a fantastic opportunity to learn and liaise with other agencies working within the homeless sector.

I act on behalf of vulnerable service users some of who find communication with professional bodies challenging if not impossible. I have become more confident to challenge decisions made, to request reviews, to raise issues with landlords etc. It has been a benefit to the service users; not too sure the agencies that have to deal with me however would agree!

My one bit of advice to any one considering doing the Housing Advice Training Programme is don’t hesitate! Apply. You will not regret it. Be insistent with your employer. It is vital training that will benefit their organisation.