Black History Month: Reah Chadderton Staff Spotlight

I used to sing lead in school choirs… however, if asked now to sing, the answer will be no [haha]!

I would say don’t panic or stress when things seem to not be going your way. Try not to take it so seriously. It will all work out, and most importantly… enjoy yourself.

I’m not sure I can cover everything Black History Month means to me in a few sentences. Black History Month to me means celebrating and showcasing a group that is often not celebrated or seen. Black people are often silenced, othered and rejected for no other reason than the colour of their skin. Black History Month is about recognising the strife that Black people all over the world face each and every day, while giving black voices a platform to honour our culture, successes and achievements.

To me, it’s important to recognise that while we have come a long way in the trauma that Black people face every day, we still have a long journey ahead of us for equality and peace. 

Growing up as a mixed-race girl in Gorton in the 90’s where no one seemed to look like me, have my hair type or skin colour, was difficult. Often feeling a bit alien to those around me following comments made about my appearance.

I’m so happy that now that there is more representation around us, especially for the younger generation. After all, how can we be what we can’t see.

After getting my Bachelor of Arts Degree in English Literature at Liverpool John Moores University, I worked for British Gas as a call centre advisor for a few (horrible) years before stumbling into my career in housing.

I started as a Foyer Assistant in the Manchester Foyer in 2017, after what felt like a few months I completed a maternity leave secondment as the Income and Lettings Officer at the Manchester Foyer. I realised after this, that I really enjoyed this type of work and wanted to work towards doing so permanently.

Some months after, I noticed a vacancy for a Lettings Officer role within MSV and decided to bite the bullet and go for it. Unfortunately, I wasn’t successful, but, was considered and hired as the Assistant Lettings Role in 2018. I then applied for the Trainee Neighbourhood Officer role at the end of 2019, I was then promoted to my current role as Neighbourhood Officer in 2020.

I’ve accrued a wealth of knowledge in my varied roles within MSV over the last five years. I’m glad I get to continue to support and advocate for our customers each day, although this can be extremely challenging!