Kristy says she was gobsmacked when Home in Place Community Participation Officer Kim told her she won a quarterly Tenant Incentive Scheme Award, but to her fellow tenants, who chose her for the award, Kristy is a very worthy recipient. The mum of five’s story of escaping violence, seeking treatment for addiction, and gaining a traineeship is impressive and inspiring.
Kristy has just started an aged care traineeship, her first job since having children. As well as working three days a week at a local aged care facility, she will complete a Certificate lll in Individual Support.
“On the first day I was nervous and excited. The facility has a holistic, independence focused approach to resident care. I am really enjoying it,” Kristy says.
“I’ve already got to know some of the residents. Some have a glass memory box with interesting photos inside which helps to start a conversation. One lady has photos of her riding motorbikes in your youth with her dad, who was a speedway driver.”
Kristy’s aged care traineeship will give her valuable experience in studying and working in a community services area and her long-term career goal is to become a drug and alcohol counsellor.
After years in a violent relationship, Kristy says she was stuck in a cycle of addiction. She has been clean for 12 months after both drug and alcohol counselling and months of detoxification rehabilitation.
“My own counsellor is my inspiration. She is amazing. I think I can really help other people in a counselling role because I have lived experience. I can look at things from an addict’s point of view.”
Kristy is now back living in her Home in Place managed home close to family.
“Being able to see my kids is really great. I became a grandmother while I was in rehabilitation, so I am looking forward to spending time with my grandson.”
“I feel really good and healthier. I can run around with my grandson and do other things without feeling out of breath.”
“I am meeting challenges head on and attend a relapse prevention program. Rehab teaches you to ask for help before things become too overwhelming.”
“The opposite of addiction is connection.”
The opposite of addiction is connection.
As well as the recognition, Kristy received a $50 gift card which she used to buy anti-smoking lozenges and fuel.
“Getting the award gives you encouragement – a feeling that you are doing a good job. It feels good to be validated, to be heard, and to be seen.”
Home in Place’s Tenant Incentive Scheme recognises tenants who are excelling in property care and financial sustainability, the local environment, training and employment or are working to achieve a significant personal goal or accomplishment.
Nominations come from Home in Place staff or from other tenants.
