Dean Hancock

What do you do at Carefree?

I have been a Personal Advisor since 2007 however, I briefly left the team in 2016 to pursue other interests but returned in 2017. As a PA I am allocated to a set amount of young people who I support with all kinds of things; from housing, employment, independence, finances and many other day to day issues that may present. I meet with young people on an 8-week basis and regularly call to ensure all is well. I work full time and must produce a Pathway Plan every six months. This report helps us to define future aspirations and the journeys we will need to take to achieve a positive outcome in this area.

What do you like about working at Carefree?

I believe Carefree is an organisation that truly cares and is genuinely interested in young people and their futures. Collectively with the Youth Work Team, Careers Team and the PA Service, we strive to get young people the positive outcomes they need to transition from care, into an independent life. This means providing young people with the skills to maximise their chances for success especially in, education, training, and employment. Carefree employ many young people who have experienced the care system and who are able to share their experiences with non-care experienced workers. This helps the whole team to form a better understanding about what meaningful support is from a care leavers experience. 

Working for Carefree is; rewarding, challenging, creative, progressive, enjoyable, immersive, enjoyable, humbling and very supportive.

Can you say a bit about your past experience and qualifications?

I never particularly enjoyed secondary school and was not considered a very good student. I was often in trouble with my teachers, and I left school with only the basic qualifications. Since joining the PA Service in 2007 I have gone on to achieve my NVQ Level 4 and have completed a lot of training which has helped me to become better and more skilled in my employment. 

What do you enjoy doing when you are not working? 

Motorbikes……I love being out on the road with the wind in my hair…well I have no hair and I also must wear a helmet so I can’t really say that…erm. Freedom…. Motorbikes give you freedom except when its wet and cold…..I don’t like that. I think you get my meaning though; I love being on motorbikes. I also like PC gaming especially racing games or games such as Call of Duty or Battlefield. I’m interested in rugby union and boxing and the occasional international game of football.

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