PGP / SPD My story:

I saw my young person for the last time before Christmas today, and it was such a lovely way to wrap up the year. We went out for a coffee, exchanged presents, and had a really good catch-up. They’re doing so well, and I honestly couldn’t be prouder of them. Moments like this are exactly why I love what I do. It’s a real privilege to be part of someone’s journey — even in small, everyday ways. This kind of work can be challenging at times, but it’s also deeply rewarding, and more people should definitely consider it. It's meaningful work and I'm so happy to have this opportunity. We were also helped today by a wonderful lady called Angela at the food place, and we were so grateful for her kindness. It was lovely catching up and hearing all about my young person’s adventures — those moments mean so much. With Christmas Eve tomorrow, I’m feeling full of festive cheer, gratitude, and pride. Wishing everyone a truly wonderful Christmas. Sarah Wingfield ❤️ Alt text: Smiling person t...

Official & Earned. For a long time, I showed up before I had a title. I put in the work before there was recognition. I advocated, trained, supported, safeguarded, and stood up for young people because it was the right thing to do — not because it came with a badge. But today, I’m allowing myself to say this out loud: All that work paid off. I’m official now. Youth services and training aren’t things you dabble in. They demand emotional labour, patience, consistency, and integrity — especially when you’re someone who actually cares about outcomes, not optics. I’ve spent years learning, unlearning, pushing for better practice, challenging harmful systems, and advocating for young people who are too often unheard, dismissed, or written off. There were moments I questioned whether it mattered. Moments where the labour felt invisible. Moments where I gave more than I had, because the work needed doing. And yet — here I am. This isn’t just a lanyard. It isn’t just a role. It’s a quiet b...