When Melissa first walked through the doors of Simon Community, one couldn’t have imagined the impact she would go on to make over the next 14 years.
Melissa started her journey as an Accommodation & Community Support Worker at our Falls Road temporary accommodation service. This was her first full-time role after school and university, where she had initially planned to pursue teaching. But during her third year of university, everything changed.
“I did a six-week placement at Conway Court (Simon Community’ temporary accommodation service) and just loved it. I started volunteering four hours a week to build experience, applied for social work… didn’t get in, but got a Support Worker job here instead and I’ve never looked back.”
In 2018, Melissa joined the newly formed HOME (Housing Options Made Easy) Team as a Tenancy Liaison Officer and played a key role in developing our now highly successful Tenancy Deposit Service.
“We wanted to remove the financial barriers that prevents the people we support from accessing private rental homes. The service helps by paying part of the deposit, something that has now supported nearly 600 people into a place of their own.”
When the HOME and CAP (Central Access Point) Teams merged in 2020 to become Housing Solutions, Melissa applied for and landed the Housing Solutions Coordinator role, where she now leads a wide range of life-changing work. From managing referrals and supporting tenants in Simon’s Creating Homes (will link) initiative, to hosting housing clinics and helping clients navigate housing points and move-on options, Melissa’s role is both diverse and rewarding.
“The best part is doing a Creating Homes viewing and handing over the keys. The feeling is indescribable, knowing you’ve ended someone’s homelessness and helped change their life.”
That impact is exactly why Melissa’s work is so important to her.
“Homelessness is rising in Northern Ireland. If I can help move clients on, that frees up space for others in need. Everyone deserves help at some point, not everyone has a support network, but I can be that person who helps.”
Her dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Melissa was recently shortlisted for the CIH All-Ireland Housing Professional of the Year Award. A moment she counts among her proudest.
“To be recognised at that level is incredible, but I’m also just so proud of the whole Housing Solutions Team. Everyone goes above and beyond.”
Outside of work, you’ll find Melissa relaxing with family, shopping, or even cleaning….
“I find it weirdly therapeutic!” she laughs.
Her advice to anyone thinking of following a similar path?
“Go for it. The job satisfaction is like nothing else. And there are so many chances to grow your skills and career.”
Interested in starting your journey with Simon Community NI? Click here to view our current opportunities and to apply.