Client centred work worthwhile but, staff obstructive to progress
Pros
The client groups, often self referred were very interesting people from extraordinary backgrounds who had really lived. Some real innovation with women only services, and very creative contributions too from the same group. There was potential in most day activities to go further and, reach more people over time.
Cons
The Management was unhealthy in it’s cronyism and, lack of challenge to it meant it stagnated with bad practice. Very unhelpful groups remained in position and no room for promotion for those who did most of the work! Years of people being left in their position, without a change to the culture conveyed negativity to new staff members. Bullying was rife, if one dared to go against this corruption, and ostracised fall out was the result for the courageous. Overall, the staff did not impress and appeared to be frustrated in their jobs; most staff, were too hard and brittle, and lacked motivation to improve service delivery. The general atmosphere was one of unprofessionalism which resonated to new, younger or more qualified additions to a team who were viewed as a threat. The lack of empathy from long serving staff who appeared largely indifferent to client need was starkly obvious. A place of disillusionment.