Jayne Walton: A head and shoulders photograph of a smiling woman wearing a back top and black glassesFor Jayne Walton, HOPE Midwest Regional Manager, working at Hope Community Services feels like finding her place.

“It’s absolutely amazing — the best place to work,” she says.

In particular, she loves spending time out at Hope Springs Therapeutic Community.

“You just walk out the door here and it’s bliss,” she says.

Before joining HOPE, Jayne managed Step Up, Step Down in Geraldton with mental health service Neami National. She first connected with HOPE through Neami’s partnership with the organisation, but hesitated to apply for the role at first.

“I didn’t have an alcohol and other drug (AOD) background — I was all mental health!” she laughs. “But the two go hand-in-hand. Both are about building therapeutic communities and helping people grow.”

Living the HOPE values

Since stepping into her role, Jayne has embraced the HOPE’s supportive culture.

“Everyone here lives the values,” she says. “It’s such a collaborative environment.”

Jayne’s passion for training and development shines in her daily work, as she leads sessions on communication, boundaries, and resilience for both staff and residents.

“I’m always learning too,” she says. “Every day, someone teaches me something new.”

Outside work, Jayne channels her energy into powerlifting and family life.

“I train hard — heavy metal music and all — I’m a big fan of the Architects,” she jokes. “My grandson keeps me motivated. I want to be around for him as long as I can.”

For Jayne, living in Geraldton allows her to be close to her family as well as be part of a network of dedicated community service colleagues.

“It’s such a supportive place. Services actually work together here, which makes a real difference,” she says.

“HOPE really lives up to its name,” she says. “It’s not just about what we do, but how we do it — together.”

Hope Community Services provides a range of services in the Midwest, including Hope Springs Therapeutic Community, a long-term esidential rehabilitation facility for those commited to their alcohol and other drug recovery.

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