Shaunett Harris
About me I grew up in Nottinghamshire and moved to London in the late 90’s to study law but decided not to be a solicitor. Having had a variety of jobs, two careers have had a huge impact. Whilst working for the Metropolitan Police Service at New Scotland Yard answering 999 calls, I began to learn British Sign Language and it changed my life. I’ve been working with Deaf people since 2008 and have been a freelance Sign Language Interpreter since 2012. I’ve experienced highs and lows in life, have lived with chronic fatigue and the ongoing effects of burnout for many years. I tried CBT and talking therapies, which helped improve my quality of life. But when my illness began to affect my work, I sought advice from a respected colleague who suggested Professional Supervision. Having initially thought it wouldn’t be worth it, I very quickly discovered that the time and space set aside to feel safe enough to reflect on my practice and decision making is exactly what I needed and it’s invaluable. So much so that I wanted to give something back and help others benefit as much as I have. In 2022, I successfully completed the Diploma in Supervision with 360 Supervision and offer individual supervision sessions face to face in central London or online to interpreters, professionals working with Deaf people, and allied professionals including front line practitioners working in health, social, medical and psychological well-being services and organisations. Why Supervision? Work can be difficult and so full on, especially if you’re a freelancer juggling a work-life balance or part of a team yet mostly lone working. Life can be hectic, moving from one job to the next with ‘adulting’ and family all in the mix. If you feel like you don’t have time in your busy lifestyle to talk about how busy you are yet you’re no longer enjoying your work, or are fully qualified but keep wondering if you did the right thing, or are completely exhausted and feel like that job could have been better but don’t know how, and you know deep down that something simply has to change… you may even have victories along the way; those small wins that occur, which you want to celebrate and regain confidence, but they quickly disappear and are forgotten about because everyone is so busy… if any of these describe you, try Professional Supervision. The first session is free for you to explore what supervision is and how having protected time to safely reflect on your practice could work for you as an individual. It’s not indulgent, it’s not a waste of time, it’s CPD, it’s an investment. But more importantly, it’s a way of looking after you so you can carry on being you for yourself and other people. |