At Simon Community NI, we are proud to have colleagues whose dedication spans decades, shaping the support we offer and the lives we change. One of those colleagues is Davy, a Senior Practitioner at our young people’s temporary accommodation service The Foyer, who has been a vital part of the organisation for more than twenty‑five years.
Davy’s journey through the charity mirrors the evolution of our services. He has worked across multiple sites – including 414, Falls Road, the former Cliftonpark Avenue site, and Cavehill, which housed the first Joint Commission beds for care leavers – before making the The Foyer his professional home. His long-standing commitment has made him a steady and trusted presence for both staff and the young people he supports.
From the beginning, Davy felt drawn to the mission of ending homelessness.
“I always had an interest in homelessness and helping people help themselves.”
Today, as a Senior Practitioner, Davy supports both clients and staff. His role is central to the Foyer’s housing-based support model, where each person’s needs are assessed from the moment they arrive. Support plans are then tailored to meet those needs, working closely with a range of partner agencies to ensure a truly multi‑disciplinary approach.
The young people at the Foyer often arrive with complex needs — experiences of the care system, involvement with the criminal justice system, multiple placements, social isolation, mental health challenges, addiction issues, and significant trauma.
Despite the challenges, Davy finds deep purpose in the work.
“This work is about making connections with young people who have been socially isolated and disenfranchised. It’s about people – clients and staff. I’m still motivated to come to work every day because of the clients and the great team we have at the Foyer.”
For Davy, the most rewarding moments come long after someone has moved on.
“The best aspect of the job is meeting ex‑clients who return with their success stories. When someone moves into their own tenancy or back with family, that’s when you see the full impact of the support – and we celebrate it.”
Working in a high‑tolerance unit brings challenges, but it also builds resilience, empathy, and pride. The Foyer team understands the risks and complexities of the client group and remains committed to meeting young people where they are.
Outside of work, Davy finds grounding in family, music, and movement.
“I spend time with my young grandchildren. I love music and have a vast record collection. I play guitar and several other instruments – and I walk everywhere.”
Among his proudest recent moments is seeing a former client return to the Foyer – not for support, but to give support.
“An ex‑client is now working with our current resident group and staff. My hope is that she’ll become a full‑time team member. That’s incredibly special.”
For anyone considering a career in the homelessness sector, Davy offers honest encouragement:
“Working in homelessness can be a big challenge, but the positives will always outnumber the negatives.”
Davy is one of many long‑standing, dedicated staff who embody the heart of Simon Community – proving every day that change is possible when compassion, patience, and belief come together.