“I’ve worked in this sector for a very long time, but there’s always a fresh challenge to overcome or something new to learn.  That’s what makes this job what it is.”

Wendy Shackleton, Operations Manager (Housing)

I’ve worked in supported housing for almost 35 years now, and the thing that strikes me is just how much some things have changed while others haven’t.  Believe it or not, the first hostel I worked in had no locks, no rules and even no fire extinguishers!  Things couldn’t be more different nowadays, and sometimes it feels as though we spend as much time doing paperwork to prove we’re up to scratch as we do actually helping people.  Still, at least safety and security standards are higher now, and that’s obviously a good thing.

What hasn’t really changed much over the decades are the reasons people need our help in the first place.  Clashes with step-parents, teenage pregnancies and prejudice in the home about a young person’s sexuality remain common causes of homelessness, even now.  It’s a disappointing situation in that respect, but it just makes it all the more important to carry on with our practical day-to-day work while spearheading a change in attitudes. 

Sometimes it’s hard to stay optimistic in the face of some of the challenges we face here at Keyhouse, but there are more than enough amazing young people users whose grit and determination really inspire me.  Yes, it’s true that in some ways our relationship with service users was less formal and less hampered by policies and procedures in days gone by, but that doesn’t mean the huge rewards of helping people to help themselves aren’t still there – it’s just different now. 

Being a part of Keyhouse is probably the best way I can put my skills and passion to good use.  While things are more prescriptive now, and it’s sometimes trickier to take risks or work creatively and intuitively, Keyhouse still manages to innovate and lead the way in the areas of housing, advice and training.

Wendy Shackleton