Victoria Clottey - Young Person's Advisor

"I'm responsible for young people who are leaving care, helping them set up home and do things like budgeting properly. I can think back to when I was a teenager, struggling with exams, being on benefits. I've had that experience so I can relate to what they're going through. When young people realise this, it makes them more willing to listen. You definitely bring your life experiences with you into this job.

If we have a dilemma, we can talk about it as a team. There are 8 of us and we get input from each other on how best to deal with a situation. You can be involved with a young person for 3 years or more. You build up relationships and see the return in terms of them staying on track. Some keep in touch, but the real job satisfaction comes when you can let go, when they don't need my support any more. It was important for me to be there for that person; now they can make it on their own."

Victoria worked in retailing before taking a degree in law and politics, and finally came into social care through voluntary work with young homeless people. She continues to work with children and young people, which fits very well with caring for her three school-aged sons.