Staff Story
Support Worker Mario – Shining a Light in Newry
From IT and petrochemicals to frontline homelessness support, Mario brings compassion to his role in Newry.
After a long and varied career across the petrochemical and IT sectors, Mario found himself drawn toward something very different, helping those most in need.
When he moved to Newry, he began volunteering with the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, eventually managing their Drop-in Centre and becoming a well-known figure in the city through regular features in the Newry Reporter, Newry Democrat and BBC Newsline.
In 2023, following the closure of the Drop-in Centre, Mario joined Simon Community as a Support Worker. It felt like the right fit a place where his values and experience could be put to good use.
“I knew many of the people from my previous work. But what made me want to be part of Simon Community is how comprehensive the support is – housing, benefits, tenancy, emotional support. It’s real, practical help.”
Mario is a constant presence at Bridge House, our temporary accommodation service in Newry for 17 adults, his focus never wavers from the people in his care.
“I make myself available. I listen. I act quickly. That trust means everything — it’s the foundation for moving someone from crisis to recovery.”
Over time, he’s earned the respect of residents, not just through professionalism, but through shared humanity.
“Sometimes they cook for me or offer me a takeaway. It’s their way of saying I’m part of something here.”
Mario’s work isn’t always easy.
“Some of the people we support have been failed time and time again. I won’t be one more person who gives up on them.”
One of Mario’s proudest moments was helping a client, who lives with schizophrenia, transition into supported accommodation with the help of his Community Psychiatric Nurse.
“It took time and patience, but eventually he built a routine, joined local activities, and began volunteering. He still calls us to say hello.”
At the heart of it all, Mario believes in replacing despair with dignity.
“This work lets me shine a bright beam of light in the tunnel, so those inside can see there’s a way out.”