blog.gov.je
If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to work in public service then a conversation with Pioneny, a Senior Mental Health Social Worker in Jersey’s Community Mental Health Team, is a great place to start.
With several years of experience supporting adults facing severe and enduring mental health difficulties, Pioneny’s role is anything but ordinary. It sits at the crossroads of mental health, social care, and social justice. And, as she puts it, it’s about walking alongside people during their darkest moments and helping them find a way forward.
“I was drawn to mental health social work because of a strong belief in the potential for change,” she says. “Even in the most difficult circumstances, I’ve seen people take small but powerful steps toward hope and stability.”
What does the role involve?
Pioneny carries a complex caseload that requires her to juggle multiple responsibilities – everything from holistic assessments and safeguarding to crisis intervention and risk management. She works with adults experiencing complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and a host of other challenges. Each person’s story is unique, and so is the approach she takes to their treatment.
She also wears a leadership hat; offering supervision and guidance to colleagues, contributing to service development, and leading training across the team. “Part of my role is making sure our services are not just clinically effective, but also compassionate, inclusive, and empowering,” she explains.
It’s no easy feat, especially in a field that’s emotionally demanding and full of challenges, such as housing shortages or gaps in services. But Pioneny’s grounded approach helps her stay focused. Reflective supervision, peer support, and a firm commitment to self-care keep her going.
The power of persistence and compassion
Ask Pioneny about moments that have stuck with her, and one particular story comes to mind.
“There was a person who had been homeless for over a year, living in unsuitable conditions and completely disengaged from services,” she recalls. They were facing severe mental health difficulties, compounded by a long history of trauma. It was a deeply complex situation.
Pioneny led a coordinated, multi-agency effort involving housing, advocacy, social services, and mental health professionals. “I prioritised building trust,” she says. “That meant showing up consistently, listening, and keeping the person’s voice central to every decision.”
Eventually, they were offered secure accommodation. That stability became a turning point. With ongoing support, the individual re-engaged with services and began to regain their independence. “It reminded me of the power of advocacy, collaboration, and never giving up,” she says.
Skills that make a difference
Pioneny brings a trauma-informed lens to everything she does. Safety, trust, and collaboration are at the heart of her practice. She’s also a strong advocate – someone who makes sure that service users are not just spoken for, but heard.
“Supporting the growth of others is something I value deeply,” she says. “Creating a reflective, compassionate team culture benefits everyone, especially the people we serve.”
Teamwork makes the real difference
One of the things Pioneny loves most about working in Jersey is the sense of community among professionals. “The size of our system means you really get to build close relationships across sectors,” she says.
In fact, some of the biggest wins come from this kind of joint working. She recalls a particularly challenging case where a service user was at serious risk of exploitation and harm. It required a coordinated response from safeguarding teams, housing, advocacy, and mental health services. “By coming together with shared purpose and clear communication, we reduced the risks and created a sustainable support plan. That kind of teamwork is what makes this work possible.”
Growth through service
The personal and professional growth Pioneny has experienced in her role is significant. From mastering mental health legislation to developing emotional intelligence, her journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to public service.
She’s particularly proud of how her leadership has evolved; from supporting staff, contributing to policy change, and thinking strategically about how systems can better serve people. “It’s about staying grounded and values-driven, even when things get tough,” she says.
Advice for future public servants
If you are considering a career in public service or mental health social work, Pioneny has some clear advice: “Lead with your values. Be curious, compassionate, and ready to learn. And don’t forget to look after yourself because this work, while meaningful, can also be emotionally intense.”
Why she keeps going
What keeps her motivated? The people.
“It’s the resilience and strength I see in others. The moments of connection, of small victories. Even when change is slow or invisible, I know we are making a difference.”
And beyond the individual stories, it’s also about systems change. Advocacy, inclusion, and social justice aren’t abstract ideals – they show up in the daily decisions she makes. “Public service, to me, is about showing up with care and integrity. It’s about doing what’s right. Even when it’s hard.”
A commitment that matters
In a world where public services can sometimes feel stretched or impersonal, Pioneny’s story is a powerful reminder that at the heart of it all are people – both those who give care and those who receive it.
