Seeing the Signposts – William’s story

Having a home with Clúid gave me something more than just a roof over my head — it gave me a foundation to build a better life. A home is more than bricks and walls; it’s a place of safety, comfort, and possibility.

When I first got my keys, I remember holding them in my hand and thinking, this is the start of something new. From that moment, I didn’t just feel like a tenant — I felt like a resident, someone trusted and valued. That trust gave me confidence and a real sense of belonging. My relationship with my housing officer grew from there, and it’s something that still means a lot to me today.

You might already know that Clúid means “the seat beside the fire.” It’s such a fitting name because Clúid truly represents warmth, hospitality, and community. With over 35,000 residents, it’s a place where we’re all part of something bigger — a culture that makes everyone feel at home.

Not long after moving in, I started noticing what I like to call signposts — little hints guiding me in new directions. I’d visit the local library or community centre to check notice boards for courses, activities, or part-time jobs. One day, I spotted a notice from St. Vincent de Paul offering bursaries for adult education. It reminded me of their kindness during tough times in my childhood, so I applied — and that was the start of my education journey.

I began by studying nutrition, something that helped me take better care of my own health and opened doors to helping others. Then, another opportunity appeared — SOLAS was advertising a course in fitness and exercise. I qualified and enrolled, and through that, I discovered a real passion for wellbeing and learning.

Soon after, I found a Level 6 course in Mental Health in the Community. That course changed the way I thought about mental health — it taught me to see people with compassion, not judgment, and to recognise that support is always out there. Organisations like Aware do incredible work, offering free education and support for anyone facing mental health challenges.

Then came the signpost that truly changed everything. One summer evening, I sat down with my laptop and started looking through university courses. The same one kept popping up, again and again, as if it was meant for me. It was the next step up, from Level 6 to Level 7, and even though I hesitated at first, I eventually took the leap. I read the reviews, spoke to my local credit union, and applied for a loan. For the first time, I was investing in myself.

That year of study was transformative. I learned about psychology, yes — but I also learned about me. It helped me see that my story doesn’t define who I am, but it can inspire where I go next.

Along the education pathway, I was fortunate to receive the Clúid Stepping Stones Award, which supports residents who wish to pursue self-improvement, skills development, or degree and diploma courses. This award enabled me to continue my education and become a psychology student at Maynooth University.

Since then, I’ve also taken on part-time work and voluntary roles in placemaking and community activism, giving back to my wider local area. I’ve connected with Community Development Projects, Men’s Sheds and Meals on Wheels which is a programme that delivers meals to individuals at home who are unable to purchase or prepare their own meals —each one bringing out something new in me. These roles have allowed me to give back, share my experiences, and help others find their own signposts too.

Sometimes, we just need someone to open a door for us — to help us see what’s possible. Clúid has a way of doing that. It’s more than housing; it’s about community, opportunity, and encouragement.

When we take those small steps, following one signpost after another, we find ourselves growing, learning, and achieving things we might never have thought possible. And no matter how far we go, it’s comforting to know that there’s always a warm seat beside the fire waiting for us when we come home.