My proudest moment working at NEAS

For Nikka Colwill, knowing she makes a difference is the highlight of working at the Short Breaks lodges on New Warlands Farm.

The 29-year-old joined the North East Autism Society (NEAS) as a Care Support Assistant in 2019, shortly after moving to the UK.

Six years on, and Nikka is now a Team Leader in the charity’s Adult Short Breaks service.

Before moving, Nikka helped out with her family’s business in the Philippines and had recently finished a degree in psychology – which is part of what led her to the Society.

“I thought it would be a good starting point,” Nikka said, “It’s quite related to what I studied, and when I read the mission and vision of NEAS, that’s what really drew me in.”

Nikka added: “Not to be biased, but I think we have the best team in all of NEAS. It’s a good environment, it’s a very healthy, happy, and diverse environment.”

As part of Adult Short Breaks, Nikka leads a team providing supported getaways for autistic adults in the Durham countryside.

The service has six specially built accessible lodges on the 78-acre New Warlands Farm, around seven miles from Durham city centre.

Nikka said:

Visitors to the lodges take part in enriching holiday activities, including day trips, cinema visits, and other outings, allowing them to enjoy being out in the community in safety, with support workers they trust.

Where some individuals may face barriers to community outings, staff at the lodges encourage them to try new things at their own pace.

For Nikka, helping one person to enjoy a trip to the beach was a big achievement.

“He struggles going out,” Nikka said, “And that was a big step for him, to be able to go out in the car and into the community.”

It’s a success that wouldn’t have been possible without getting to know the individual and building a trusting relationship.

“You need to build that rapport. Rapport is very important, because once they trust you, they know you’re there for them.”

Nikka added: “When they go home happy and settled, and the family’s happy, for me that’s the best thing.”

Progression within her career at NEAS has also been important for Nikka, who said:

“I like new challenges, I like gaining knowledge and gaining new skills, I love that. And for NEAS to give me the opportunity to progress, it’s quite good”

Nikka added: “If you want a rewarding job, then absolutely go for the lodges, we have the best team.”