Our staff members attended an I’m A Friend workshop and the blog below was written by Eric Donovan, Sports Ambassador, whom we all got the pleasure of meeting. He is extremely passionate about his job and this workshop, which we all really enjoyed . Please have a read below.

Nicole Hill, Aura Drogheda.

Hope, belief and inspiration – it all starts within. And flowers are
never a bad start.

Saturday took me to Drogheda for another workshop with the Aura
Leisure Group on behalf of I’m A Friend. The previous Monday I was with the Aura staff in Trim, who taught me so much about the service they provide. When you are dedicated to the health and wellbeing of other people, it really is amazing what you can do.

Sometimes we forget about the health and wellbeing of the people we work with so I was blown away when our session in Drogheda began with a presentation from the staff. It being the day before Mother’s Day, they had decided to chip in to buy some flowers for the two mammies on their team. It was such a lovely gesture, simple and thoughtful, and the perfect way to start.

I’m A Friend, as well as being an anti-bullying initiative, is about
nurturing that kind of thinking in the workplace. Saturday’s group in
Drogheda was the biggest one I’ve worked with so far. There was a mix of full and part-time staff – from fitness instructors to lifeguards
and managers, maintenance staff and swim teachers. Straightaway, I knew there was a solid team in front of me – a team who were willing to learn and engage with I’m A Friend and our message.

The atmosphere was relaxed and respectful with plenty of input and
participation throughout. There were some disagreements and plenty of strong opinions, which is part and parcel of the programme. I always welcome different viewpoints because this prompts great discussion about our actions and behaviours. This all helps to heighten our awareness and develop a greater understanding of each other. Ultimately, it brings the best version of ourselves to the surface.

The feedback from the workshop was positive. Interesting and
informative was the general consensus about the presentation, and the majority of staff want to learn more about I’m A Friend. One person found that the two-hour session flew by.

For me, it was a pleasure to spend time with a group of people willing to learn. Their participation provides the real inspiration.

It all comes from within my friends – hope, believe and inspire.

Eric Donovan – I’m A Friend, Sports Ambassador