Six Months at Contact Hostel : My Charity Experience So Far
Our Administration Assistant Victoria, joined Contact in October in 2024, here she tells us all about her first six months working in the charitable sector.
What inspired you to join Contact?
I’d been looking for a role that was something new, my background is in creative industries so working for a charity was a complete change. It felt like the right time in my life to try something different and working for a women’s charity has been a really inspiring experience so far.
Has it been what you expected it would be?
It’s been so much more than I expected, I have learnt so much about fundraising and the organisation - and about myself too. I was quite nervous about going into an admin job from being in a creative role, but actually I’ve had lots of opportunities to be creative here too, which has been amazing.
Can you share a memory that has stuck with you from your time here?
One moment that really stands out in my memory is Pancake Day, our Support Worker Karen did pancake making with the girls in the evening and a few of us stayed late to take part. It was so much fun to be involved and really heart warming to see the girls having a laugh and taking part in a normal family activity, in our kitchen. I know how hard the staff work to give the girls positive memories from their time with us, so it was great to see that first hand.
What’s something you’ve learned about youth homelessness that you didn’t fully realise before?
I didn’t realise the extent of the issue of youth homelessness before I started working at Contact. I’ve learned that homelessness isn’t a black and white issue, that there are so many nuances within it – learning about all of the different reasons that a girl might be in need of help from Contact has been a real eye opener.
What has been the most satisfying thing you have achieved since you started?
I’ve really enjoyed working with our supporters who hold events for us, it has been so satisfying to see an idea go from start to finish and to help people make their events a success. We are always on hand to help our supporters and it’s an area of work I really enjoy.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about Contact Hostel?
I just wish more people knew about us in general! We aren’t a massively well known charity and that’s something that I’m enjoying trying to change. I think one thing that I always tell people when I talk about Contact is how it’s most likely nothing like the image you see in your head when you hear the word ‘hostel’. It paints a certain image of a space, perhaps one that is quite cold and unwelcoming, but our house couldn’t be further from that. It’s warm and welcoming, and has such a positive atmosphere.
Is there anything that has surprised or shocked you during your time working at Contact?
I think the biggest shock to me was the amount of people who are experiencing homelessness, particularly in Manchester. We rank the third outside of London in terms of the number of people facing homelessness, and just under 50% of those are under 18*, so it is a huge issue in our community. With the increased cost of living and the housing crisis looming too, the work of Contact and other homeless charities is more important than ever.
What do you think makes Contact Hostel special?
So many things! It would be hard to pick just one thing, but I would say that the team of staff we have here is so special. The fact that we have Support Workers on site 24 hours a day is quite unique and important to our service. The house is often busiest in the evenings when girls get back from college, so it’s at these times that the girls need a listening ear or some advice and support. The whole team is so friendly and warm, it’s a privilege to be a part of.
What would you say to someone thinking about supporting or donating to our cause?
Please do! We are only a small charity so every penny or donation really does make a massive difference. Whether you run your own event, sign up to be one of our room sponsors or buy something from our Amazon Wishlist, it all goes towards providing a safe home for our residents.
If supporters want to help, what’s the best way for them to get involved today?
Get in touch! We love to hear from people who want to support us and are always hand to provide help and guidance. I would suggest people check out our website, our events listings and our social media to see what types of things they can get involved in.
Shelter Report, 2024