As it was World Autism Awareness Week the other week, we thought it would be a great opportunity to shine the light on our fantastic learning disabilities and autism team. Today we would like to introduce Gillian Monaghan, our National Service Manager at Thornbury Community Services.
Gillian’s background
Gillian began working in care 33 years ago and had multiple roles early on in her career. These included caring for children and the elderly, working as a Nursing Assistant at the Royal Oldham Hospital on the ESMI unit with mental health patients and as a Senior Carer at Anchor Housing.
Gillian soon decided that she wanted to take a niche approach to her work and specialise in the field of learning disabilities and autism. She quickly progressed to Senior Support Worker before being promoted to Resource Manager.
In her new role, Gillian was responsible for a newly acquired brain injury facility, where she was also working alongside a clinical psychologist. The facility was a great success, and because of this, the local authority was the first to gain 5 years CARF Accreditation for the services that they provided.
During her career, Gillian undertook many other projects, including managing several supported living properties, which enable people with a learning disability and autism to live independently in the community.
She also managed a community mental health facility where she focused on building positive relationships with housing providers, meaning that people could move on successfully after a period of rehabilitation.
Gillian's role at Thornbury Community Services
In her role at TCS, Gillian works as a National Service Manager, working alongside a group of people who hold the same passions and beliefs as herself. She is the main contact for commissioners and is responsible for ensuring her team of professionals are delivering a high-quality service.
Gillian has many qualifications and is continuing to gain more during her career. She currently has:
- Level 4 Positive Behavioral Support course
- 3 years Accreditation from the Autism Accreditation
She is also undertaking a NVQ level 5 Diploma in Health and Social Care Management.
For more information on World Autism Awareness Week, visit the National Autistic Society website.
Interested in joining the TCS team? We have roles available today for a range of healthcare professions, including: adult nursing, paediatric nursing, learning disabilities nursing and support work, healthcare assistants and more. Alternatively, you can register your interest today.