We have welcomed Sophie Essex in a new position at Shared Lives South West.
Based in the Cornwall office, her role as a Community Engagement Officer, will focused on being out in the community to promote Shared Lives and Carer recruitment at various events.

We caught up with her just after she started…

 

What made you apply to work for Shared Lives South West?

I applied for the role as I wanted to get into working for a charity and thought I had good marketing experience. I wanted to find a job that was worthwhile and where I was doing something for the community. I’ve just moved back from Cornwall after travelling for a couple of years, so this felt like a natural role to apply for.

 

Tell us more about  your first opinion of Shared Lives South West?

It’s a really amazing scheme, creating these wonderful outcomes and helping people feel comfortable and safe.

I have never worked in care before and my eyes have been opened the last couple of weeks.

Meeting Shared Lives households and spending time with the SLCs in Cornwall has been good.

It seems a great organisation and I’m really enjoying myself and everyone is so friendly. I can’t wait to do more and spread the message further.

 

What qualities will help you in your role as our Community Engagement Officer?

I love having a chat and getting to know people.

Before this  role, I was a freelance copywriter and a content assistant.

Before that I was botanist, so if anyone has any plant questions get in touch!

 

If you could take three things to a desert island, what would they be?

A snorkel, flippers and the Lord of the Rings books.

 

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I volunteer at festivals. I also do a lot of hiking,  my partner and I are thinking about doing the Three Peaks Challenge. Travelling  and sea swim is soemthing I love.  I also enjoy cooking, trying new restaurants and eating!

Camping in my converted van is also something I enjoy.

 

Read more news  from Shared Lives South West here.