Mickey Hickman is the Young Persons & Family Team Manager at Turning Point and has a passion for helping young people which is clear in her daily routine.
No one day is ever really the same, but her boundless energy and desire to help young people and young adults in Somerset means she is ready to take on whatever each day may bring.
Her role takes her all over Somerset to ensure that young people who are struggling with their own or a family members alcohol or drug use get the support they need. Travelling to meet young people in their own home, a YMCA drop-in, or wherever they will feel most comfortable.
Mickey’s dedication has played a significant role in the growth and success of the team of recovery workers at Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service (SDAS) and she was recently promoted to the YP and Family Team Manager. She is an inspiration to many, and her work serves as a reminder that we can all make a positive impact in the lives of others.
Having personal experience of how substance use can affect a family. After losing her sister to addiction, this first-hand knowledge has given her a real desire to help others. She started her career as a primary teacher, where she worked for 17 years, and has gone on to get a master’s in education and management and has recently been promoted to Team Manager, which is a testament to her ability to adapt to new challenges.
Mickey understands that her job comes with its own unique challenges. She said, “You want to save the world, but we aren’t an emergency service. You sometimes need to take a step back, respect the young person’s space, their lifestyle and what they perceive as normal in their world. You need to guide them, give them advice and support so they can make their own decisions”.
If you, a family member or someone else you care about would like to speak to someone at SDAS, please contact Turning Point 0300 303 8788 (24/7 helpline).
Or maybe you have lived experience of the skills and would like to join our team to help others? We have volunteering, peer mentoring, part-time and full-time roles available. We would be happy to hear from you and welcome people from all backgrounds.
This blog was originally published by Turning Point. You can read the original post here.
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