Susan (Sue) Menton

HDipCYW BSocSc. MS        SocSc                                                             

Professional Hypnotist CHI. Adv Dip Hyp.               

Currently working in the Dublin suburb of Cherry Orchard, Dublin 10 Susan has identified, designed and developed a model of Practice on a large Campus providing Care and Education for over 500 children called ICE (Integrated Care & Education). The model is currently being studied and has been described as a significant modern-day model that responds to the most vulnerable children and their families in a very simple but transformative way thus breaking the cycle of disadvantage and poverty. St Ultans hosts many visitors from other communities and government departments to share their knowledge and learning, it is held in great regard as a model of good practice. This model is influenced by the National Framework – Better Outcomes, Brighter Futures and is now using robust measurement systems and stories to show outcomes. The model brings together various professions and expertise to utilise and maximise resources and knowledge to provide the best possible opportunities for the children and young people to reach their full potential in an environment of warmth and mutual respect.

Sue grew up in Ballyfermot herself where she became immersed in voluntary work for many years across a wide range of generational and community-based initiatives. She began working in communities in a paid capacity in 1990 just as communities saw the onset of the drug epidemic. She worked on Local Drugs Task Forces, established Policing Forums in the south inner city and worked to support communities in their response to drug misuse. She currently sits on various community structures including the local Education Task Force, Restorative Practice, D10 Childcare network, Child and Family Services Network (CSFN) and recently is a Parent Champion with Tusla’s Parent Suport Strategies. She continues to be a Professional Development Supervisor for NUI Maynooth and sits on the National Assessment Committee for Leargas Erasmus international exchange programmes.

Sue is a dynamic manager experienced in managing large community, youth services and care teams in various settings and drives community development as part of an overall strategy to ensure collective community action in a challenging environment and ensures best practice.  She enjoys managing, motivating and leading successful and productive teams. She processes wide and varied knowledge, skills, experience and understanding of community development, community youth work and social inclusion. A competent strategist, capable of developing innovative plans designed to facilitate responses to identified changing needs and successful running of operations. She possesses excellent interpersonal, organisational and negotiation skills. Has the ability to influence decisions and to develop positive internal and external working relationships with both statutory and voluntary organisations.