Meet Debbie Mackay
At Clan, we have our team of superheroes who make it their mission to support clients in any way they can. This week we spoke to our new CFS Group Development Practitioner, Debbie Mackay, to get to know one of the many superheroes who have the power to help.
Find out more about our Children and Family Services here
Tell us a bit about yourself, who you are, where have you come from?
My name is Debbie and I have recently started part time at Clan. I am mum to two wonderful little boys who keep me busy (and entertained!). I pretty much enjoy anything that involves being sociable aswell as reading, walking and relaxing on my sofa. I have worked in a variety of Community Learning roles for the past 19 years, with young people, adults and families doing issue based and learning focussed groups.
What made you want to work for Clan?
I felt ready for a new challenge! I love working with people, and I’m really good at chatting, so felt my CLD skills could transfer well into the Children and Families team here at Clan. I felt that being able to offer some support and make a difference during a really difficult time for people would be such a rewarding opportunity to have.
How did you end up in this line of work?
I started off as a youth advice worker in a peer led project which then led onto being a Community Learning and Development Worker. I really enjoyed developing needs led work with people who accessed the service. I like chatting to people, building rapport and seeing how I can support them to be the best version of themselves.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself?
Erm, give me a minute. Hmmm… well, I‘m well known for speaking in lots of different accents and will sometimes forget where I am and just starting talking differently. It’s a source of entertainment if nothing else!
When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I always wanted to be a vet, that was the dream. However, I discovered that my talents did not lie with maths! And that is an essential credential for entry into university to study veterinary medicine. I also kind of knew I’d spend 90% of my time just wanting to cuddle the animals! I then considered joining the mounted police – but decided it would potentially be quite scary!
Who is your hero?
As cheesy as it is, I would have to say my parents! They're always there to support me and help me out. Such good people with hearts of gold, I’m very lucky.
Can you give us two truths and one lie about yourself?
- I’m vegetarian
- I’ve met my Hollywood crush – Denzel Washington
- I love horse riding and used to have my own horses
Find out more about how you have the Power to help and what you can do to support Clan!
