The joy in supporting. Raz, John and the team
Tuesday 21st of April 2026When Razvan arrived at his supported living service in East London in 2017, according to Service Manager John Crowley he was, “almost afraid to open his mouth and ask for things”. Now Raz, as he likes to be known, is the life and soul where he lives and has a brand-new job. It’s been a support journey of encouragement and confidence building.
“Raz was very quiet when he arrived here” says John. “And English is not Raz’s first language, Romanian is.” An initial language barrier didn’t stop Raz. As he grew in confidence people began to notice his outgoing and sociable personality.
“He’s got an amazing ability to talk and converse with people. And the more relaxed he becomes, the more confident he becomes, the more Raz comes out.” says John.
John wasn’t the only one to notice Raz’s abilities and determination. Avenues Co-production team knew the organisation was looking for a team of people to check Avenues’ services, known as Quality Checkers. Co-production Lead Paige Andrews knew Raz would be perfect for the position;
“My first impression of Raz was how he conducted himself. I could tell that Raz really wanted to make a difference within Avenues. He showed great potential and was not afraid to speak his mind when it was needed. Having audits across avenues from people with lived experience has such an impact in highlighting great services and ones that would need improvements.” says Paige.
Razvan is now part of a team of people employed to visit Avenues services and look over the quality of the buildings as well as talk to people supported in the services. All have been employed from people Avenues supports.
“Raz has made a real change and I can see the confidence he has shown in the role. Raz has been a huge part of co-production, being a part of the panel, the Health and Safety Committee, co-chair for his local engagement group, attending interview panels, speaking with trustees all while continuing his quality checks.” adds Paige.
As a Quality Checker Raz sends his findings back to the Quality, Assurance and Practice Team. He is supported by John to use the PC and file reports.
“Raz struggles with writing. So we have the support in place to ensure that he’s able to do the things he wants and the writing won’t be a barrier.” Says John.
Raz continues to go from strength to strength in his new role. John couldn’t be happier but stressed it’s a team effort;
“I’m very proud of the staff team and the work they’ve put in. But I’m very proud of Raz for the work that he has put in and he’s just a joy to work with” says John smiling at Raz.
For John Raz’s progress is testament to the difference good support can make in someone’s life. Not just immediate but from the entire organisation.
“For new staff coming into the home. They see what good support is and they see what happiness is when you see when you see a smile on Raz’s face and he just brightens up everyone’s day.” says John.
“He’s a joy to support” says John beaming.
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Would you like to join us and become part of the Avenues community? If you would like to support someone with a learning disability see our latest vacancies for support staff at https://www.avenuesgroup.org.uk/jobs-and-careers/
Find out more about how Avenues supports people at https://www.avenuesgroup.org.uk/our-support/
Find out more about Avenues Quality Checkers