We recently caught up with David Harkins and Lynn McHugh, our new Trainers with the Training Academy. They shared their experiences of career development within Cornerstone and how they are settling into their new roles.

David told us “I moved to Cornerstone in 2021, to be part of an exciting and innovative new service at Bessie Dunlop Court in the Ayrshire Branch. Over three years, I met loads of interesting and wonderful people and worked as part of a fantastic team delivering person centered support and outcomes for the people we support. Leaving the service was an emotional roller-coaster and something I was equally nervous and excited about, coupled with the sadness of leaving the service that gave me so much.

In the five months that have followed, in my new role as Trainer with the Training Academy, I have been made to feel so welcome, not only my colleagues in the Academy, but everyone from the Glasgow office to Airdrie and West Dunbartonshire, not forgetting my fellow Ayrshire residents. I continue to learn and grow by being part of an experienced and supportive team, I know this will continue in a positive vein. I am looking forward to getting out and working with the Branches in the West more and helping our fantastic support practitioners and leaders with training across a number of topics. Teamwork makes the dream work!!"

Lynn told us “I started my career at Cornerstone Dundee in April 2001, over 23 years ago. I first started as a support assistant, and after four years progressed to assistant service manager, now known as lead practitioner, being part of opening one of the first complex care services in Dundee (Keswick), I remained there for 16 years before moving to the Fairfield service. During my time I have experienced a lot of organisational changes, worked with several truly inspirational teams and had the opportunity to be part of the Dundee management team, building a positive and engaging working environment. Every day I had the privilege to come to work and have been very fortunate to be part of something I really enjoyed, making a difference and impacting on people we support’s lives.

In March 2024, I decided to move on from the operational side and was successful in securing a new role as Trainer with Cornerstone’s Training Academy. The Training Academy has always been close to my heart, I am excited to work in an area that I have a keen interest in, that inspires and motivates me to pass on my knowledge and learn. When I started my new role I was immediately made to feel like part of the Training Academy team. Everyone has been so supportive, it made me feel welcome and been very patient while I completed the different training packs, offering advice and the opportunity for me to shadow the amazing Trainers. I have visited different Branches and met many Branch Leaders. I am excited to work across the organisation, start this new journey and pass on my experiences and expertise to the dedicated staff teams. It has been an amazing journey so far; I am ready for the new challenges ahead of me with the Training Academy!”