Sinead has been supported by Les Amis since 2012, when she and her family accessed our respite service. When she was ready to live more independently, Registered Manager, Tia Kirton-Read and her staff team supported Sinead and her family, as she moved out and settled into one of Les Amis' group homes.
In 2024, as she juggles working at Beresford Street Kitchen and her much-loved Swim Easy Jersey sessions, Les Amis are thrilled to also be supporting Sinead in becoming even more independent and moving into a flat of her own - a dream of hers.
Both Sinead and Tia love swimming and football. Tia is looking forward to open-sea swimming this summer and seeing if Sinead might venture her best backstroke beyond the pool, among the waves. But don't get them started on which football team is best - Liverpool or Manchester United?
Tia joined Les Amis as a support worker in 2019 and soon realised that a career in care was the right path for her. Les Amis supported Tia through her RQF Levels 2 and 3 Diploma, and soon after she was promoted to Team Leader. She then continued studying her BTEC Level 4 Diploma in Positive Behavioural Support and her Makaton Levels 1-4 training. She now has her sights on RQF Level 5 and a Makaton train-the-trainer course.
On top of her day to day to work, Tia also leads the Les Amis Choir, is Centennier for St Clement Parish and is keen golfer as well. Tia reflects on her time with Les Amis: "More than just a career opportunity for me, Les Amis' support and their encouragement in both training and self-development, I've grown hugely in confidence and my own self-esteem."
Sinead an Tia represent some of the best aspects of Les Amis. Two young women - one on a journey of independence and the other, that of career development - both supported by Les Amis.
Together, Sinead and Tia are helping Les Amis rewrite the story of disability in Jersey.
How can you help Les Amis on its mission to support and empower people, like Sinead, to reach their full potential?
Fundraise for Les Amis
Attend our events
Workplace support via corporate partnerships
Donate today or set up a recurring donation
Leave a legacy in your will
If you have ideas or queries on any of the above, please email our Head of Charitable Income & Partnerships, Yenni Kusumo.
PHOTO CREDITS | Paul Watson Photography
Les Amis Limited Registered Charity No. 232 | LA Incorporated No.231 | Association of Jersey Charities Number: AJC 113