“I found that it made me feel a lot safer, living in a centre that allows us to have a say in who works there.”
St Christopher’s involves its young people in the recruitment of staff. This is what Amelie says. She had been a resident at one of the assessment centres for four weeks when she was asked to get involved in choosing a new assistant manager.
How old are you and what are you favourite - and least favourite – things?
I am 16. I like shopping and dislike bad weather.
How long have you been at the St Christopher’s Assessment Centre?
For about a month.
How did you get involved with the candidate interviews?
My key worker told me about it and suggested that I get involved. I am waiting to start college so this was a good way to keep myself busy and try something new.
Describe the interview day
We had three groups of interviewees come to do some role playing scenarios; we then had to decide who we thought the best assistant manager would be. Our scenario was based around a girl asking for more money to buy her mother a birthday present. This was a very good way of finding out how people would react in real situations.
Do you think it is important that St Christopher’s involve young people in their interviews?
I think that it is really important we get staff who can relate to young people. After all, we are the ones who they will be working with! And I found that it made me feel a lot safer, living in a centre that allows us to have a say in who works there.
How will this help you in the future?
It made me feel that my views were respected. At first I was really nervous but I was made to feel really comfortable and it really helped my confidence level. I think I will remember this when I start work in the future.
I had a great day doing the interviews, it was a new experience and I met some lovely people!