"I began working on C.A.S.S's. SMART Project in July 2003. Before this time I'd worked for our partner organisation on the same project. The post entails working two days on the SMART Project and two days on the Floating Support Scheme. During my time with C.A.S.S. I have gained a lot of experience through working with service users and other agencies. Substance misuse, crime, homelessness and emotional rollercoasters are all in a days work and I do get a lot of satisfaction from being able to assist people to make changes in their lives especially when the time comes to move on to their own independent tenancies. The Floating Support Scheme involves visiting service users in their own tenancies, assisting them to maintain their homes, with other issues they may have such as sorting out benefits, debts and paying bills. I’ve had some rewarding experiences working with service users on this scheme where I’ve watched them address their issues productively and come out smiling on the other side. On the SMART Project we positively encourage service users to call at the office and to treat it as a safe place to come where they can talk to someone who will listen and help them work through any problems that they may be experiencing. Sometimes service users will just call in to say 'hello' on their way home or stay for a coffee and update us with their progress or just what’s happening on Eastenders. I have realized through my work that the one thing I believe makes a difference in how a service user makes progress is treating them as an equal in all respects. If you show somebody you believe they can make it this can often be a catalyst in their decision to want to make positive steps towards a better life. I am happy in my role and feel very privileged to work for an organization that gives offenders, people with mental health problems and homeless people, amongst others, the chance to make a new start and improve their lives."