We’re so pleased to that Cat is joining our Bodmin team. She will be our new Assistant Coordinator and Family Support Worker on Thursdays and Fridays.
Thanks to Trusthouse
Thanks to Trusthouse Charitable Foundation, we can get more people practical help and emotional support at Bodmin Magistrates’ Court.
Cat is studying Psychology
Cat is studying for a degree in Psychology at the University of Plymouth. In addition, she is specialising in offending behaviour and addiction. On top of this, she is a fully trained autism and mental health champion. This wealth of knowledge will stand her in good stead in the new role.
Wealth of experience
Cat has a wealth of experience with young people at Callywith College in Bodmin. Prior to this, she supported young people at Bodmin College.
People arrive stressed
Courts can feel harsh, hostile and cold. Therefore, people arrive stressed because they know they could lose everything. We bring a sense of optimism to this awful situation.
Cat wants to be bring hope to people who are going through the justice system. She explains here:
Listening ear
People know they’ve done something wrong and they just need help to get out of this situation. A listening ear can make all the difference between life and death.
Your life is not over
It doesn’t mean your life is over just because things have gone a bit wrong. You can still achieve. It’s never too late.
Learning from the past
We are all learning from the past. If there’s a pattern of repeat offending, we can explain that this is an opportunity to learn and grow. Each time, you’ve learnt something new. As a result, you can always find a positive outcome. Through the process, you can also find out what you don’t want. You can turn it around.
Trauma
The world is much more understanding of trauma these days.
Your confidence can be at a very low ebb when you’ve had traumatic experiences throughout your life. Trauma alters your belief system about yourself. Crime is related to trauma and we need to give people support and opportunities when they have struggled.
Rural isolation
On top of this, there’s also a lot of isolation in Cornwall. This is often linked with deprivation. People need to know that we’re always here, at the end of the phone.
My neighbourhood
Bodmin is my neighbourhood. I want to make a difference here in my home town. I have a good knowledge of all the local agencies and I’m looking forward to forging new partnerships.
Working together
Bodmin has so many services, clubs and groups. Working together in this way ensures people find opportunities on their doorstep.
Family support
There’s often a whole family left behind when someone goes to prison. They are in urgent need of support, especially when it comes to accommodation and benefits. I’m really looking forward to this side of the job.
Cat’s vision
I’ve worked with vulnerable young people in the justice system throughout my career. The system has often let them down. Many are struggling with their mental health and learning difficulties. They need to know that it’s okay to have these emotions. They also need to feel listened to.
I’m an empath. This is my vision: to use my time and skills to help people come to a better place in their life.
Supportive team
This is is a very supportive team. I’m pleased that I will be surrounded by passionate, funny and friendly people.
Stressful job
Above all, I know this is a stressful job, but this is definitely my area of focus now. My poetry, mindfulness and Reiki will see me through. In addition, I so love being by the sea, cold water swimming and paddle boarding. We all need to find ways to cope with a heavy work load.
If you need help with any of the issues discussed here, please contact your local CASS+ hub for support and advice through court.