Ospreys in the Community are delighted to announce the appointment of two new members to the team.
After the huge success of our Sporting Memories project, we’re thrilled to be able to strengthen the foundations work within the community with two new part time appointments.
Catrin Evans and Katie Ruddock both joined the team back in April as Health and Wellbeing Officers, linking up with Health and Wellbeing Co-ordinator, Helen John.
The trio will work to support some of our programmes such as our Sporting memories groups which works with older people living with dementia, depression and loneliness by engaging them in social activities and helping them to recall memories of watching or playing sport.
They’ll also work on our new project “In the Squad” launched in partnership with Swansea City Community AFC Trust, working with ex-military personnel to increase physical and mental wellbeing.
Speaking about her new role, Catrin Evans said:
“I used to work for the local authority and decided I wanted to do something different. I started to volunteer until I found what it was I wanted to do. I always knew I wanted to work with people so I attended a Sporting memories session. From there I started volunteering with OITC and I haven’t looked back since.
“I have never done anything like this before but from day one I have loved every minute of it! It’s such a rewarding job and to see the enjoyment the sessions bring to so many people is really enriching. The whole team is amazing, and I can hand on heart say I love my job.”
Echoing Catrin’s comments, Katie Ruddock said: "Firstly, I wanted to say that I'm incredibly thankful to be a part of the Health & Wellbeing team here at Ospreys in The Community!
“In University, I studied a joint major in Sociology and Social Policy, which ignited my passion for helping others. Whilst studying, I worked for Home Instead Senior Care and The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, which gave me first-hand experience of the challenges faced by the older demographic within society. After graduating, I went on to work in Marketing, Events and Recruitment, but I very much felt that something was missing in the 'corporate world'. In my spare time, I gained invaluable experience as an Emergency Outreach & Soup Kitchen Volunteer for 'Feed Our Homeless' and I was actively involved with a Children's Hospice based in Dublin.
“I left my previous role in recruitment to find something that aligned with my personal values. Fast forward to present day, and I feel like I've found my dream job - working on projects that promote health and wellbeing in our communities and that make a difference! Alongside my role as Health & Wellbeing Officer, I am studying part-time to become a qualified Counsellor - I hope to be able harness the skills and knowledge gained from this course to support our project members, especially coming out of the pandemic.”
For more information about our Sporting Memories and In The Squad projects, contact the team today via helen.john@ospreysrugby.com