Ruby McCloskey

My name is Ruby McCloskey, 27 years old, and I am excited to apply for the Lifeline Crisis Support Officer position. I am passionate about supporting people through difficult moments and would love the opportunity to pursue a career where I can make a genuine difference in someone’s life.

My interest in crisis support is also deeply personal. Someone very close to me, my former fiancé, experienced severe addiction, mental health challenges and suicidal ideation. Being alongside someone through these experiences gave me a firsthand understanding of how overwhelming and isolating a crisis can feel, not only for the person experiencing it but also for those around them. It has strongly influenced my desire to be there for others and to do everything in my power to help someone feel heard, supported and less alone during their darkest moments.

For the past six years, I have been self-employed as a freelance hairdresser, working with people of all ages and backgrounds. This has taught me the importance of listening without judgement, building trust, communicating effectively and making people feel comfortable and valued. I have also had experience engaging with clients with additional support needs, further developing my patience, empathy and ability to adapt to different individuals.

Being self-employed has made me reliable, responsible, organised and confident working independently. I am also a naturally caring, active and creative person who enjoys connecting with people, learning new things and continually challenging myself to grow.

I understand that crisis support requires compassion, patience, resilience and the ability to remain calm and non-judgemental when someone is at their most vulnerable. I am eager to undertake the necessary training and develop my skills so I can provide safe, respectful and meaningful support to people who may feel that they have nowhere else to turn.

I would be incredibly grateful for the opportunity to bring my personal understanding, life experience and genuine passion for helping others to Lifeline. Most importantly, I want to be someone who can help another person feel heard, valued and reminded that they are not alone.

Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my suitability for the position further.

• The Gordon 2018 Apprentice of the year
• The Gordon 2018 1st Place Competition
• The Gordon 2017 Rising Star Award
• Extra in the movie “ The Dress Maker”

• Full Licence Vic Roads