For 10 years now Roger Crisp has been a pivotal part of Minda, and it was a change in occupations that led Roger to Minda in the first place.
After spending 30 years in the bakery trade, a good friend of Roger’s convinced him to give a career in disability support a chance. Feeling as though the timing was right, he gave it a go and hasn’t looked back. “I’d worked as both a baker and in managerial roles, and I felt as though I was at the right point in my life, to try a new profession."
After undertaking his placement hours at Bright House and Crawford, a new house opening at Minda led to Roger’s role, with the focus being person-centred. This made it a great fit for Roger, with both his past experiences and natural ability to build a rapport with people.
Roger’s position at Repton Road has him looking after four clients; Warwick, Danny, John and Henry, where he is able to use his empathetic nature to find a common interest with each of them. Roger says that while there are challenges with meeting the differing needs of four individuals, he thoroughly enjoys working with the different personalities, cultivating their varying pursuits and getting them out into the community.
Seeing the guys safe and happy in their own home environment, as well as thriving individually and making their own choices, is the most rewarding part of it all
Roger also gets immense satisfaction from working with the guys to make the house feel homely, as well as getting them to communicate and create a bond with each other. “I think getting the guys to build a good rapport with each other is vital for when there are tough times, as well as for creating a family unit within the household."
It’s the exceptional work and relationship building that Roger’s put in with the guys and their families that led to his nomination and ultimate win with the staff Values Award for EMPATHY.
Described in his nomination as an exceptional person who goes 'above and beyond' what is expected of him, and for creating a family environment at the household. He was particularly lauded for his outstanding empathy of each of the client’s specific needs and capabilities, as well as keeping the families involved in the daily activities at the house.
Roger says that as well as being surprised by the award, he appreciates the recognition; “It’s a beautiful thing, and it helps you see that you’re doing the right thing in your job”. Ultimately though, Roger says: “Seeing the guys safe and happy in their own home environment, as well as thriving individually and making their own choices, is the most rewarding part of it all.”
Roger Crisp.