Paul Connor (Liverpool)
Tom Harrison House
Paul was Tom Harrison House’s (THH) first graduate. Ross, his nominator says,’ Paul is hands-down the most stunning example of someone who, given the right opportunities, has turned his life around 180 degrees. When the team first met Paul, his life was literally in ruins – his physical and mental health had broken down to an alarming degree, he had destroyed his family relationships and had lost his dignity and self-respect. He had been living on the streets for years and he was totally dependent on alcohol, an addiction that almost killed him on several occasions. One thing that shone through all this chaos and destruction was Paul’s determination to lift himself out of that life when the opportunity to engage with THH arose, and to work hard with us on beginning to change his situation.’
Paul has embraced learning in every situation that has presented itself since his first day at THH. His journey commenced when he joined the main THH programme where he began to learn more about himself and his addiction. He continued after his time in rehab with volunteering, training, part-time employment and eventually his most recent undertaking – training in his passion for photography – in a job that he loves. These opportunities have all arisen from Paul’s own sense of determination and a willingness to challenge himself; and because he has been so open to learning in the form of the unique THH addiction programme which has proved transformational. Paul adds, ’The THH programme gave me my life back. It was life changing.’
Nominated by Ross Forest
Joint Career Progression in Health and Care Runners Up
Gayle Davidson – The Carleton Clinic, Cumbria Partnership NHS FT
Steven Lee – Walton Neurology Centre, Liverpool
Certificate of Recognition
