Dedication rewarded
When Catherine House Manager of Client Services, Deirdre Flynn, was contacted by the SA Woman Awards to let her know she’d been anonymously nominated for the 2022 Backbone Award she was taken aback. Deirdre was even more shocked when she went on to win.
In her role as Manager Client Services, Deirdre oversees the client service teams at Catherine House. She ensures the women who come to Catherine House have access to the highest standard of programs and services, all designed to help them move forward in life. These services include crisis accommodation, mental health services, outreach support, as well as helping clients to reach their employment and education goals. “I always wanted to work just with women, and Catherine House is great because in the time that they’re here with us, the women are safe. We can give them an opportunity to be heard, to receive comfort, safety and security. There’s a saying in social work: ‘We hold the hope for our clients, until they can hold it for themselves’.” When asked what motivates her in her work every day, Deirdre said: “I’m a worker bee. I want to work hard for them, to be of service to them. They have been let down by so many in life. I want them to know they are worth all my e ort and care. “They are inspiring and every day they teach me about courage and strength. It is an absolute privilege being able to work alongside and for them.”
“It came as a huge surprise. It was such a lovely and touching gesture.”
The Backbone Award celebrates women who are the backbone of the family business or place of employment. It recognises the valuable contributions of women, because without them the business would not run or operate as smoothly. Throughout her 23 years working for Catherine House, Deirdre has been dedicated to creating a truly safe, supportive environment with opportunities for clients to achieve improved personal and economic wellbeing. She has also put her body on the line, competing in gruelling marathons to raise funds for Catherine House.
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Housing Choices Australia Group
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