Hi! My name is Aaron and I’m super excited to become part of MindJam. I come from a background of working in care, supporting individuals with Autism and learning difficulties, of which I have around 8 years experience. During my time in the care industry, I have learned many skills to help individuals with extra needs achieve goals and overcome challenges in their daily life. This would include creating short or long term goals with an individual, with realistic targets and milestones, or something as simple as being an ear to listen.

For the best part of a year, I took on a more senior role where I became a team leader. This increased my responsibilities and involvement with the progress and development of the individuals we supported. This also included liaising with parents and other professionals on a regular basis. These experiences helped me develop personally, becoming more patient, empathetic and understanding.

I have been a keen gamer since I can remember, and this passion has carried through to my adult life. As a kid I would play host and invite friends over to play games, creating rules for tournaments and awards for winning (such as not having to go in goal when we play footy!) Some of my favourite games include Fifa, sports games in general, beat ‘em ups such as Tekken, Mortal Kombat and racing games like Gran Turismo. I have always been keen to try out new games and am normally quick to pick them up. Gaming is a wonderful way to escape the worries and troubles of everyday life, as well as a way of developing attributes such as perseverance and determination. 

Since leaving the care industry, I have missed creating a positive impact on an individuals life. When a good friend of mine started working as a mentor with MindJam, and described to me the fantastic work that they do, I knew that this was something that I would love to be a part of…combining my passion of care and gaming would be a dream!

Other than gaming my main interests are football, where I play for my local team and support the mighty Liverpool, as well as using my home gym, music and movies/TV series.

I’m enhance DBS checked with fully up-to-date safeguarding training. Additionally, I’m Certified in understanding Anxiety and Stress in children and young people, Data Protection and Online safety. I have training and experience working with autistic young people, PDA, ADHD and SEN.

Thank you for taking your time to read about me!