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World Autism Awareness Day: Progress’ autism-aware approach

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Tuesday 2 April 2024 is World Autism Awareness Day

The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.

Autism is a lifelong neurological condition that manifests during early childhood, irrespective of gender, race or socio-economic status. The term Autism Spectrum refers to a range of characteristics. Appropriate support, accommodation and acceptance of this neurological variation allow those on the Spectrum to enjoy equal opportunity, and full and effective participation in society.

Autism is mainly characterised by its unique social interactions, non-standard ways of learning, keen interests in specific subjects, inclination to routines, challenges in typical communications and particular ways of processing sensory information.

The rate of autism in all regions of the world is high and the lack of understanding has a tremendous impact on the individuals, their families and communities.

The stigmatisation and discrimination associated with neurological differences remain substantial obstacles to diagnosis and therapies, an issue that must be addressed by both public policymakers in developing nations, as well as donor countries.

700,000

There are 700,000 autistic people in the UK – that’s more than 1 in 100. If you include their families, autism is a part of daily life for 2.8 million people.

30%

Just 30% of autistic adults in the UK are in any form of paid employment. This is amongst the lowest rates of employment for people with additional needs or disabilities.

3x

Autism is 3 times more prevalent in boys than girls. Signs of autism in girls can present themselves differently and as a result can be misdiagnosed or missed leading to more boys getting a diagnosis.

Progress’ autism-aware approach to interior design

“Colours can have a profound impact, especially for children with autism. We strive to create adaptable spaces where colours can be changed to suit individual preferences, ensuring the environment remains stimulating and comforting.” 

At the core of Progress’ approach to interior design is the concept of sensory design. We utilise principles such as space, colour, texture, form, and light to create spaces that meet the unique sensory requirements of the children they care for. These principles are not just about aesthetics; they are fundamental in addressing the sensory needs of the children.

Preet Anand, founder of Mood Interiors, has been instrumental in redefining the role of interior design at Progress’ homes. Preet and her team approach each Progress project by understanding the specific needs of the children. She described it as a comprehensive process that takes into account the individual requirements of each child.

In sensory design, colour plays a pivotal role. Preet says, “Colours can have a profound impact, especially for children with autism. We strive to create adaptable spaces where colours can be changed to suit individual preferences, ensuring the environment remains stimulating and comforting.”

How the darkness of COVID-19 led Jackie to the brightness of fostering

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Meet Jackie, one of the incredible foster carers at Progress, a place where she’s not just a foster carer but an integral part of an outstanding service that is supporting children and families across and beyond the Midlands. She’s all about making positive changes in kids’ lives, and she’s been doing it for over four years now. 

Just like several other foster carers, Jackie’s journey into fostering wasn’t planned out. It all started during the chaos of the COVID-19 lockdown. She’d always wanted to foster, but life kept getting in the way. “I’ve always wanted to foster, but circumstances never aligned until the lockdown,” Jackie reflects. When she and her husband had to stay home because of his health, fostering suddenly seemed like the right path. And it turned out, her husband had always wanted to foster too, so it felt like fate. 

Since then, Jackie’s been part of Progress. Just like several other foster carers with Progress, Jackie stumbled upon Progress online, and it’s been a perfect fit ever since. She talks about how everyone at Progress is always ready to help out, making it feel like a supportive community.  

“Everybody is always keen to help. You know nothing is a problem and if you have got a problem, they are all sorted out for you. There is always somebody there to help you out and so you’re not left on your own,” Jackie emphasises. 

What Jackie loves most about fostering? Well, everything! Whether it’s opening her home to children in need of emergency placement, helping families in need of a break, or committing to long-term care, Jackie is all in. To her, fostering isn’t just a job; it’s her calling. She says she gets so much joy from knowing she’s making a difference in the lives of children. 

“I just love it all. Whether it’s emergency placements, respite care, or long-term fostering, I embrace each opportunity with open arms and a nurturing heart.” 

And Jackie’s not planning on slowing down anytime soon. Even at 63, retirement isn’t on her mind. She is determined to keep supporting kids for as long as she can. “I get great pleasure out of doing what I do,” she affirms. 

Jackie’s story is inspiring. Her dedication to fostering with Progress shows just how much one person can do to help children when there is abundant support and guidance. Jackie and her partner are proving that a little love and care can make a huge difference in someone’s life. 

Do you connect with Jackie’s story or is your journey to considering fostering different from Jackie’s? Talk to us today and we will gladly support you to bring your fostering dreams to reality.

If you are considering fostering, please get in touch with Progress via enquiry.fostering@progresscare.co.uk to find out more. 

Celebrating Achievements: A Glance at Progress Fostering Service Awards Event

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

In a heartwarming celebration of dedication and compassion, Progress Fostering Service which includes the fostering team, foster carers and other stakeholders, recently gathered to commemorate the service’s remarkable achievements of 2023. Held with joyous spirits, the event not only highlighted the milestones but also served as a testament to the profound impact of fostering with Progress.

Among the highlights of the evening were the presentations of certificates of achievement, celebrating years of unwavering commitment and tireless support and services provided by the foster carers. It was a momentous occasion as those who had dedicated years to fostering with Progress were honoured for their remarkable contributions.

As the ceremony unfolded, the room buzzed with an atmosphere of appreciation and gratitude. The heartfelt speeches echoed the sentiments of the entire Progress Fostering Service community, acknowledging the invaluable role played by each foster carer in transforming the lives of children and young people.

Captured within the frames of the photographs are moments brimming with pride and camaraderie. Smiles adorned the faces of foster carers as they celebrated those that received their well-deserved accolades, their eyes gleaming with a sense of fulfillment that comes from knowing they are making a difference.

The event was a tapestry of emotions – from jubilation to quiet reflection, from shared laughter to silent tears of joy. The event was a celebration of foster carers’ stories of resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication, weaving together the threads of countless lives touched and transformed through the power of fostering.

Looking back on these cherished memories reminded attendees of the profound impact of fostering – not just on the lives of the children and young people entrusted to the care of Progress Fostering Service, but also on the lives of people involved, especially the individual foster carers. Foster carers in attendance summarily described fostering as a journey that delivers the best rewards for everyone involved when it is defined and guided by love.

Indeed, the event was more than just a celebration of achievements; it was a celebration of the human spirit, of the profound capacity for compassion and kindness that resides within Progress’ foster carers. It reinforced the spirit of camaraderie and dedication that defines fostering, knowing that every milestone reached by a child is a testament to the transformative power of love and care.

Progress is Proud to Support Employees to Become Foster Carers

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Progress Children’s Services Ltd and Progress Adult Living Services Ltd, collectively known as Progress, are happy to announce we are part of the Fostering Network’s ‘Fostering Friendly Employers’ programme and as such, we have implemented a fostering friendly policy for employees who foster or applying to do so. Through this policy, Progress offers up to five additional days of paid leave, to enable staff to complete their fostering commitments, training and other critical activities in the role or in the application and approval process.

Angeline Freer, Head of Corporate and Commercial Services at Progress explains “In addition to always looking for more ways to support our workforce, I felt it was important as a fostering agency to support this initiative and our employees to foster, given the critical need for more families for children who need them, which is ultimately why we exist”.

The Fostering Network, a membership body, is the UK’s leading fostering charity. Their Executive Chair, Mervyn Erskine says ‘becoming a fostering friendly employer is something to be really proud of. Foster carers are the bedrock of children’s social care, for the difference they make to the lives of children. It is important that this vital role is not only recognised, but also encouraged by employers.  

Angeline added, “By supporting our employees to foster, be that through us or another agency, we can help to address the thousands of extra fostering households needed in the UK, for the children who need them most”. 

The fostering community is open to people from all walks of life, no matter your age, gender, relationship status or sexual orientation. If you are considering fostering, please get in touch with Progress via enquiry.fostering@progresscare.co.uk to find out more. 

A Year of Dedication and Care: Fostering Service Reflects

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

The staff team and foster carers have again gone above and beyond to make sure we are providing the right opportunities and outcomes for our young people.

The yuletide season is here and Phil, the Registered Manager of the Fostering Service at Progress Children’s Services, extends his heartfelt congratulations to the entire team for their unwavering dedication and hard work throughout 2023. In a goodwill message, Phil expresses gratitude to those who have played a pivotal role in providing exceptional care to the children under their charge.

“I would like to congratulate everyone involved with the fostering service throughout this year for the hard work, commitment and dedication they have shown in providing outstanding care to the children we look after,” says Phil, acknowledging the collective effort that has defined the service’s success over the past year.

Fostering Service at Progress Children’s Services has thrived on the commitment and dedication exhibited by both the staff team and foster carers. “The staff team and foster carers have again gone above and beyond to make sure we are providing the right opportunities and outcomes for our young people,” notes Phil, emphasising the tireless efforts put forth to ensure the well-being and positive development of the children in their care.

Going beyond the call of duty, the team has tirelessly worked to ensure that the children receive the best possible care and opportunities. “Throughout this period, we have had brilliant support groups for both carers and children and looked to deliver training that is engaging and worthwhile,” Phil states, highlighting the comprehensive support system in place to foster collaboration and understanding among carers and children.

Throughout the year, Progress Fostering Service has not only met but exceeded expectations by delivering engaging and worthwhile training. “We have provided events like the youth club, Summer Event Day, and pantomime that have given us incredible feedback,” Phil shares, underlining the service’s commitment to not only meeting the basic needs of the children but also creating enriching experiences that contribute to their overall development.

As we approach the New Year, Phil extends warm wishes to all those involved, expressing gratitude to every single person who has made a positive impact on a child’s life in 2023. “We hope you enjoy the holiday period and thanks to every single person who has had a positive impact on any child in 2023, and we hope you have a happy new year,” he says, encapsulating the service’s appreciation for the collective effort that has made a difference in the lives of the children.

The message from Phil encapsulates a year marked by compassion, resilience, and a shared commitment to the well-being of the children in the care of Progress Fostering Service. As we bid farewell to 2023, we join in celebrating the achievements and successes of the fostering service, while looking ahead to a future filled with even greater accomplishments and contributions to the community.

Claudia and Her Dozen Foster Kids

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Celebrating Black History Month 

While Black History Month began in the United States of America in the 1920s, it was first celebrated in the UK in 1987, the 150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the Caribbean, and happens every October. 

As we commemorate Black History Month, it is essential to recognise and celebrate the incredible individuals who have made a profound impact on the lives of others. Claudia, a foster carer with Progress, is one such remarkable individual whose journey into foster caring has not only transformed the lives of countless children but also shattered preconceived notions about who can be a foster parent. 

Claudia’s journey into foster care began with her profound love for children. From a young age, she was the go-to person for her cousins and their children, and children always seemed to gravitate toward her. In her own words, she shares, “I love kids. Ever since I was young, all my cousins would always bring their kids over, and the kids always basically love me and they just stick to me.” 

However, her official journey as a foster carer began while she was working as the Deputy Manager for a residential home catering to individuals with learning disabilities and mental health challenges. Claudia recalls this pivotal moment: “My journey started when I was a manager, Deputy Manager for a residential home for people with learning disability and challenges with mental health. I worked there for 11 years.” 

During her tenure at the residential home, Claudia encountered two young ladies who were struggling with severe self-harm and emotional issues. They made a heartfelt plea to Claudia, suggesting she adopt them or provide them with a nurturing home. Claudia shares their request, saying, “One of them said to me, ‘Why don’t you adopt me? I don’t have a place to live.’ And it resonated with me.” 

Claudia’s next step toward foster care began when her daughter left for university, leaving her with a three-bedroom house. Claudia’s response to this newfound space and her love for children was straightforward: “I was online looking for jobs, and I saw a pop-up about fostering. I just put in a message to say, ‘Can you tell me more about this? I always have kids. I’m a mother, I would say I am a carer, a giver and I’ve been working in care settings for kids or teens.” 

Over the years, Claudia has cared for numerous children, many of whom have stayed in contact with her and seek her guidance and support. In her own words, she acknowledges the lasting impact of her work: “I’ve got 12 of them, still in contact with a couple of them. They keep me busy, keep me occupied. I wouldn’t change it. I wouldn’t change it for the world.” 

When asked about her remarkable success as a foster carer, Claudia humbly attributes it to her upbringing and values. She cites her mother as a significant influence: “My mom has always taken in relatives’ children and looked after them. And even after we left, she was still having kids at the house. Maybe that’s something because I’ve grown up in that sort of environment.” 

Claudia’s dedication to fostering is even more impressive when considering her academic pursuits. She managed to complete her studies, obtaining a degree in psychology while working two days a week at a university. In her own words, Claudia explains her drive: “I like to stay busy because once your mind is busy, you’re learning, and I think you’re never too old to learn.” 

Claudia’s journey as a foster carer is a testament to the power of a single individual’s dedication and love to make a difference in the lives of children in need.  

As we celebrate Black History Month, her story serves as an inspiration to challenge stereotypes, embrace diversity, and open our hearts and homes to those who need it most. Claudia has not only given countless children a better future but has also enriched our collective history with her remarkable journey as a single Black foster carer.

Inquire about foster caring today, click here.

Why I foster: Helen

Posted on by Angeline Westley

In a new series of interviews we have asked Progress foster carers why they foster care and how fostering changes lives.

Helen has been caring for James and Perry with her husband, Henry. This is her story.

When you have a child of your own, you realise what a positive influence they can have on your life. My husband Henry and I had reached a stage in our lives where we did not want any more children of our own, but we did want to support and care for a child that was less fortunate than others.

Whether it is for a week or full-time, if Henry and I could change a child’s life for the better, we would.

Some of my work colleagues had experience as foster carers. The more they spoke to me about how fostering works, the more it seemed like a great way to help children.

When you start fostering, prepare for your life to change.

You will go through a lot emotionally and looking after someone else’s child will take a lot out of you. In some cases, you may only have a short time with a child or young person, maybe a year or two so it may feel like everything is happening quickly.

However, you must remember that the time you are in their lives, could be an important period for them. It is for this reason that Henry and I put all our energies into ensuring we can make a difference.

When Progress told us about James and Perry we wanted to help. The boys did not have the structure of regular family life, so we expected things to be a little chaotic. In all honestly, they were just two sweet little boys that needed love and attention.

Henry and I were nervous about the rules we wanted to implement in the house. We did not want them to feel intimidated but knew that the rules would stand all of us in good stead.

James and Perry have been fantastic at going along with everything. The boys say please and thank you and eat three meals a day, as opposed to the junk food they ate before they arrived. Routines like brushing their teeth and going to bed at set times, have helped them to live a normal life.

As a couple, Henry and I appreciate having a network of other foster carers. Progress hosts the “Voice of Progress”, a monthly club for foster children to get together and participate in fun activities. The foster carers tag along and use it as a chance to talk to each other about our experiences.

There is no set rule book for what makes a good foster carer. We all bring our uniqueness to any given situation. Having some life experience and being a caring and patient person helps.

Fostering is my way of making a positive difference in the world. Henry and I feel that giving a child the chance to succeed in life is not only good for them, but for everyone in society. If you can offer a child a home, along with the help and support they need at a difficult time in their life, then you must get involved.

If this story resonates with you, perhaps you could be the next carer to make a positive difference in children’s lives. Get in touch to find out more about being a foster carer.

Why I foster: Jane

Posted on by Angeline Westley

In a new series of interviews we have asked Progress foster carers why they foster care and how fostering changes lives.

Jane has been caring for Fariha. This is her story.

I have worked with and cared for young people with complex disabilities for over twenty years. I may be biased; but welcoming a young person into your home is hugely rewarding, especially when you see the positive impact you are having on their life. It is an absolute pleasure for my husband Mark and I to provide foster care.

We took a break from fostering a few years ago, to recharge our batteries and then went back to Progress with a renewed optimism to help a child. Progress informed us about Fariha, and we really wanted to care for her.

Fariha has severe disabilities and was residing in a home. She is a wheelchair user, has significant learning, speech and language delay as well as some visual and hearing problems. Fariha had an few unsettled years; having moved from place to place.

Imagine if you went through that?

We were so pleased when Fariha was placed with us.

Mark (who worked in the police force for over thirty years), was initially worried about fostering a child with complex needs, due to his lack of knowledge and experience. However, he felt more confident once he took part in the training and support Progress gave us.

In preparation for Fariha’s placement, our home was assessed by occupational health professionals and some adaptations were made.

One such example was the fitting of several small ramps inside as well as handrails, so Fariha could move freely around the house.

We asked as many questions as we could about Fariha’s needs, personality and behaviours, so she would be comfortable in her new home. A transition plan was sent to us, to ensure we had a good understanding of her daily requirements and routines, and this really helped.

Fariha’s bedroom was decorated to her own individual needs and although she cannot verbalise her preferences, we ensured her bedroom had a calming atmosphere to encourage and promote sleep and relaxation.

Taking care of a child with disabilities can seem quite daunting, and you will face a lot of challenges. Giving unconditional love to a child is a given, but you must also have patience and understanding. When you can do this, you will see many wonderful things.

At one of our first meetings, we were told not to expect any hugs or sitting on laps from Fariha, and that she would be stationary. Mark and I would always encourage her to reach out to us. Within the first month, Fariha reached out to Mark, insinuating that she wanted to be picked up! I could not believe it! Fast forward to today (with a little bit of work) – Fariha will raise up on her knees to be picked up for a cuddle or to sit on your lap.

It has been wonderful, getting to understand the faces she pulls and the noises she makes when she is happy or sad. This may seem like a little thing, but knowing where she was, to where she is now, these moments are huge! Fariha has also settled well into her new school. Her initial phased start to the term has now turned now into a full-time schedule. We are so proud of how Fariha has coped with this.

We own a caravan and take trips across the country with Fariha. She loves the beach and the noises of the waves crashing and the feeling of the wind on her face and hair.

Mark and I have committed a lot of time caring for Fariha. You must think about the demands that caring for a child has on you as an individual, a couple and wider family. As a couple we try to get away when we can and spend time together.

That said, our lives have become much richer by looking after Fariha. When I see her smile, I realise what a special girl she really is.

If this story resonates with you, perhaps you could be the next carer to make a positive difference in children’s lives. Get in touch to find out more about being a foster carer.

Why I foster: Joanna

Posted on by Angeline Westley

In a new series of interviews we will be asking Progress foster carers why they choose to foster and why despite some challenges, fostering can bring a lot of joy.

Here’s Joanna’s story.

“You don’t help someone to get a pat on the back. My husband and I foster because we love it. Seeing a child smile because of the support we have given them makes us so happy.

For twenty-two years I was a primary school teacher, including a period where I was a foster mother in nurseries. Back in the 1980s I was also a foster parent but trying to devote time to three children of my own and a foster child was difficult. I’ve always felt that every child needs an equal amount of love and care and one should not be neglected over the other.

I learnt a lot working at the school. One of the biggest things being a child’s behaviour is not always down to them being unreasonable, it may be because they are not understanding their current situation or behaviour expectations. You can’t take things personally. I found that if I was able to nurture a child’s skills and behaviours things could change in a positive way.

Once I retired the idea of fostering kept coming back to me. Wherever I turned I saw fostering. Facebook, the internet, TV, it was everywhere! This was not a coincidence. I debated the pros with my husband, and we decided to go ahead and look for fostering agencies.

I first heard of Progress when I saw them at a summer carnival in Birmingham where I found the staff were friendly and open. I got to learn more about fostering and the different types of foster care we could provide. I went on to speak to another four agencies but found Progress the most professional. So, we chose them as our fostering agency.

The process of becoming a foster carer is rigorous. You have to be completely transparent as a couple and a family. My husband and I have been married for over forty years, so we took everything in our stride.

Once we were confirmed as foster carers, we decided that we wanted to provide short breaks. This type of fostering gives families or a parent without a support network a chance to recharge their batteries, especially when a child has a disability. Looking after my own grandchildren five days a week, meant we could make a realistic contribution to fostering of a weekend once a month without compromising our families or personal well-being. There is currently a huge demand for respite foster placements.

We ended up fostering two brothers. The younger boy was able to communicate but his older brother couldn’t. Of course, we were nervous when we began, however, you soon build a rapport with the children. Learning the fostering guidelines has helped as well as the support from Progress. We have taken part in a lot of training which has been essential for our development as foster carers.

The brothers are very active. We now take them swimming every month, go to parks, museums and nature trails – we have had some really great times.

We’ve also worked on how we could communicate better with the older child by restricting the amount of time he spends on his tablet (while in our care). We hoped he could join in conversations and use a visual timetable to communicate. I read stories to the boys and we play games like “I spy” in the car. One day I was reading the brothers a book and the little one was joining in. Suddenly the non-verbal older brother shouted – BOO! I nearly fell off my chair!

The children are now able to increase their vocabulary and interact with others. It’s wonderful when they tap me and try to say something or count.

Sometimes fostering can be hard. I make sure there’s enough time for me and my husband. We go for walks, spend time with my children and grandchildren and go to church too – we’re very close.

To anyone thinking of fostering I’d say having the ability to change a child’s future for the better is one of the most rewarding things you can do. Every child deserves a safe and secure family environment”.

If this story resonates with you, perhaps you could be the next carer to make a positive difference in children’s lives. Get in touch to find out more about being a foster carer.

 

A Foster Carer’s Story: Pauline

Posted on by Angeline Westley

It was late one evening when Sasha arrived. She was just a year-old, dressed in a pink padded coat and carried through the door. ‘She looked so scared and dirty,’ says Pauline who was there to open her heart and give her a home.

Later as Pauline gently placed her in a warm bubble bath, Sasha smiled at her for the first time. For the next few months, she clung to Pauline, never wanting to be put down. Pauline was determined to give her as much love as she needed.

She bought her a pink coat and pink blankets, and at night she read stories and sang songs to her as she drifted off to sleep.

‘I just wanted to look after and protect her. She was absolutely beautiful,’ Pauline recalls.

For almost a year Sasha slept in the corner of the cot on all fours, and Pauline slept in a bed in the same room watching over her. Then one morning she found Sasha sleeping on her back, it was almost as if she had finally relaxed.

Gradually as she grew, Sasha became more confident, playing in the garden or running around in the park. When she was three, she was adopted by Pauline’s sister, and she became Pauline’s niece. There was a happy ending for all of them.

Pauline started fostering seven years ago and has already welcomed five children into her home.

She knew it was what she wanted to do when she was a young child, brought up by her grandmother in the countryside in Jamaica. ‘I used to say that I was going to have a child from every nation,’ she says.

When the first of her two daughters went to university, there was space in Pauline’s three bedroom house, so she gave up her job as a beautician to become a foster carer.

‘I wanted to give a child a chance, to give them support and love,’ she says.

She admits she has a big heart, that she is kind and loving and caring.

Pauline says the rewards come from seeing a child gaining in confidence ‘knowing they can be loved and there’s nothing wrong with them,’ she says.

When Pauline first met Tom, he was less than a year old and being looked after in a children’s hospital. Every day for months she went to visit him before he was allowed to come and live with her. ‘From the time he came home he was happy,’ she says. ‘It was just as if he had been here all the time.’

Tom suffered from a condition which meant he had to wear a mask and was attached to monitors when he was asleep because of the risk he could stop breathing. Carers came into her home to stay with him during the night, and at times Pauline stayed with him instead, sitting in a chair next to his bed or lying in a sleeping bag on the floor.

‘He was always loving,’ says Pauline. He called her ‘mum’ and ran up to sit on her knee if she was watching television. It was hard for her when he left to be adopted two years later, but Pauline knew he was going to a good home with people who loved him. He was adopted by two nurses. ‘I was happy for him,’ she says. ‘I loved him to bits.’

Another little boy arrived when he was six, and Pauline had a big party for his seventh birthday. She hired a room in a soft play centre and gave him a “Spiderman” party so that he could celebrate with his school friends. ‘He had never had a birthday party,’ says Pauline. ‘He said it was the best day of his life.’

Pauline, who is a Fostering Ambassador for Progress, is keen to encourage other people to become foster carers.  ‘I think everyone should have a home,’ she says.  ‘There are loads of children out there that need help, and I can’t have them all.’

If this story resonates with you, perhaps you could be the next carer to make a positive difference in children’s lives. Get in touch to find out more about being a foster carer.