Samantha

Samantha is the manager of our Lalley Centre in Collyhurst, North Manchester.  It’s a busy hub in the local community providing a wide range of support for families and individuals. 

She said: “I manage the Lalley Centre, which encompasses a community centre, a food pantry and allotment. In the centre, we support people from all walks of life in their daily life, from ensuring they’re on the correct benefits, to parenting support and so much more in between.    

“I have been with Caritas since Jan 2019.  I decided I wanted a change after the birth of my first son. I had worked and volunteered for most of my working life as a drug and alcohol worker, and I was ready for a new challenge.    

“The best thing about working here is the passion that my local and wider colleagues have for working with and supporting people.  I love working with local people and watching them get their wins in life is so refreshing and uplifting. The occasional jollof rice doesn’t hurt either!  My work supports people to breathe a little easier, and to feel more comfortable navigating through the sometimes confusing worlds of DWP or housing.    

“I love working for a charity that cares for the people they support and their own staff and wellbeing too.   And when I joined here I was really surprised just how far the Diocese of Salford covers, and the eclectic mix of support Caritas offers too.”