Kate Harvey's journey in the field of alcohol and drug services is a testament to the rewarding career opportunities available in this sector. With a background in mental health and health and social care, Kate took a career break to raise her children before joining The East Riding Partnership at Goole. Her role as an In-reach Support Worker showcases the diverse and impactful work within the service.

Role Overview
As an In-reach Support Worker, Kate works with individuals who have a criminal justice background or are experiencing homelessness. Her caseload typically includes up to 10 clients, allowing her to provide comprehensive support to each individual. Kate explains, “In-reach is specifically for people with a criminal justice background or a problem in the criminal justice system now. They might be in prison, leaving prison or in and out of prison where they keep committing crime and get stuck in a revolving door."

Support Provided
Crash Pads, provided by East Riding of Yorkshire Council (ERYC), are fully furnished flats designed to offer temporary accommodation for individuals in need. Once a client is settled, we conduct a comprehensive assessment of their requirements, which may encompass various aspects of their life. These can include health concerns, financial difficulties, and basic life skills such as bill management, which may have been neglected for years. We also consider practical needs, such as veterinary care for pets. Our support extends to preparing clients for job interviews, arranging transportation, providing appropriate clothing, and offering guidance on interview techniques. Essentially, we address any factors that can help stabilise their lives and facilitate their journey towards independence and self-sufficiency.

Success Stories
Kate's work has led to significant positive outcomes for her clients. She shares a success story: “I worked with a couple who had been homeless for many years, using heroin and crack. They didn't want any support initially and I met them as they first went into the crash pad. Their lives were chaotic, and they could not manage the basics of living in a home. It took two years of support and coaching but now they are supporting themselves, they are stable, living in their own property and considering volunteering opportunities."

Social Work Apprenticeship
Kate is currently undertaking a Social Work Apprenticeship, a three-year degree funded by the government and the Alcohol and Drug Service (ADS) that combines academic study at University with practical work experience at ADS. She explains, "It's one day a week at Hull University for lectures for the academic part and as I am already working in the role everything I do with my job goes towards my degree." Kate will also undertake a placement in a different service to gain further experience.

The UK government is promoting these apprenticeships to address the shortage of social workers and to provide a pathway for experienced practitioners to gain professional qualifications. This approach allows individuals like Kate to earn while they learn, avoiding student debt and gaining valuable hands-on experience.

Career Development
Kate's experience highlights the career progression opportunities within the alcohol and drug service sector. She states, "For anyone out there who doesn't know what they want to do, the opportunities are there. There is lots of training and support. Drug and alcohol services really do want people to come and work for them."

Why Choose a Career in Recovery?
Kate emphasises the unique aspects of working in recovery services: "We are given the gift of time. I don't have anyone micro managing what I have to do or set deadlines to complete a case. Without that time, it would be a completely different job." She adds, "For someone thinking about social work as a career, recovery services are a good area because of the freedom and support we receive."

The Alcohol and Drug Service offers a fulfilling career path for those passionate about making a difference in people's lives. As Kate puts it, "I get to help lots of different people. Everyone who walks in the door is completely different." For individuals seeking a career with growth potential, support, and the opportunity to professionalise, recovery services provides an excellent starting point.