Navigating change and the possibility of failure as an adult learner
- CHT Comms Team
- Aug 1
- 3 min read
How a change of mindset and embracing the possibility of failure put Alistair on a new path.
"Before joining CHT in July 2023, I had worked extensively with people living with autism, experiencing street homelessness and with young people exiting gangs. While mental health was a contributing factor in all of these, I had never worked directly in the mental health field.
One of the requirements of the role of the Service Manager at Highams Lodge was to complete a Level 7 Diploma in Relational Practice in Mental Health successfully.
Looking at the academic work required, I was a bit nervous. I understood the importance of the course when it came to supporting our residents and understanding CHT's clinical model, but honestly, my preference at the time would’ve been to start the role without having to commit to the diploma. It felt like a bit change because I hadn’t done adult education for decades. I felt a degree of imposter syndrome, and it made me question my ability to complete the course.
But then, I stepped back and thought, "But what if I can do it? What will that mean for me, and what would I have the opportunity of learning?" Taking this role with CHT was such a big opportunity for me, and by changing my mindset, I felt more able to accept the challenge.
The importance of positive risk taking
I started the programme in September 2023. One of the great things about the course was studying alongside other colleagues who had similar reservations. The reflective practice at the end of each day proved to be a very supportive process. Having a safe space to express my feelings and ask questions, along with others, made my apprehensions about studying again all the more manageable. It turned out I wasn't the only person who had returned to study after a long hiatus!
Over the programme of multiple seminars, I learnt so much, particularly regarding interpersonal dynamics, which also included mental health perception, suicide, working with groups and families, and relational safeguarding.
I delivered six presentations at the end of each term, which initially put me outside my comfort zone, but the positive feedback was encouraging and helped me know that my understanding of the seminars was correct.
Alongside this, and maybe most importantly, the course helped me develop as a person. It also enabled me to have a greater understanding of my role within a relationship. This applied not only in the workplace but also in my personal life.
By putting myself out there and being courageous to try something new, I have an appreciation for the opportunities that present themselves when you embrace change and the possibility of failure and try something new.
At CHT, a big part of our residents’ recovery pathway is about positive risk-taking and the unknown. I thought a lot about this when things felt tough for me or when I was feeling a bit stretched. By framing the experiences as learning opportunities, I developed my skills in a way that I might not otherwise have been able to, and surprised myself during the process.
I'm going to miss the person I was while studying.
When the course came to an end a couple of weeks ago, it felt really poignant saying goodbye.
It wasn't really a goodbye to my fellow students, many of whom I’ll see again at work! It was more of a goodbye to the experience of studying and the person I became during the diploma. It was refreshing being a student again once a week, and not having to think about my everyday responsibilities. Studying alongside others who have different roles at CHT, as well as people outside our organisation was an experience I thoroughly enjoyed. It felt like we were all students on the same level. We were all there to learn and there was a feeling of freedom and camaraderie attached to that.
I’m proud that I embraced this new experience, it’s changed me in many ways and I've probably formed a new neuro pathway or two along the way, which is an added bonus and something I could never have expected."
Alistair Dinsmore is the Service Manager at Highams Lodge, our high-support, CQC-regulated mental health recovery community in Waltham Forest.
