What is your name?
Thomas Haighton
Tell us a little bit about yourself (e.g. age, hobbies, do you work or at school/uni etc?)
My name is Thomas, I’m 36 years old and I’m a Senior Day Care Worker in the NHSCT. I enjoy spending time with friends and family.
Tell us a little bit about your family/pets!
I live at home with my beautiful wife who’s an inspiration! My two children Leah 11 and Lewis 7, our dog Hope and not forgetting the newest addition to our family Alfie the budgie.
What three traits best describe you?
Loyal, people person, a good friend (I would like to think)
Where is the best place you have travelled to and why?
Dubai , I went here for my honeymoon and really enjoyed the culture and the architecture was amazing.
Where would your dream holiday destination be?
I’m not big on travelling but if I could choose anywhere I like the thought of Thailand again some of the pictures I have seen look amazing.
What is your favourite flavour of ice cream?
Ferrero Rocher from Castello (Very hard to beat)
What is your favourite sweets/chocolate bar?
I love a Dime Bar and not fussy about which sweets I eat apart from Liquorice!
What is your favourite movie/TV Show?
Sad I know and can’t believe I’m admitting it but Corrie has to be my favourite:-/
What is one thing you could not live without?
My phone
What is your greatest fear?
Flying on a plane that becomes faulty mid flight I might actually die before the plain crashes with panic!
If you could do any job for one day - what would it be and why?
MI5 - just to actually hear and see what the know that the rest of us don’t.
Have you been doing anything new or interesting during lockdown?
I’ve become a joiner / gardener , learnt a lot of new skills and the work doesn't look too bad. Have to give some credit to my wife Lyndsey without her there would be many mistakes.
How long have you been at Gateway?
About 18 Years
Why did you start volunteering at Gateway?
I volunteered in Junior Gateway and wanted to see what it was like to work with adults with a learning disability. After my first night I was hooked and never looked back! One of the best decisions of my life to date.
Tell us about your favourite memory of Gateway?
It’s hard to choose as there are so many. One particular memory was taking Stephen one of our members to London. I know it meant so much to him and he couldn’t have enjoyed his time anymore than he did. His smile the whole day was infectious. When we flew into belfast city for home I couldn’t find where I parked my car. It was late at night and we were both really tired. After near one hour of searching we finally found it. Stephen made me feel so much better by saying sure we’ll just tell everyone the flight was delayed so I didn’t look stupid 😂 Top man
What would you say to anyone thinking of joining Gateway?
Stop thinking and come and see us! Have a look around and see what you think. There’s no pressure I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed. From the moment you walk through those doors you have gained a new family. The Gateway Family
What is your favourite part of a "typical" Gateway Wednesday night?
Seeing the members come walk through the door, excited for their night.