At Oak Cottage, a Progress home for young people with complex needs, the role of a residential support worker goes far beyond a traditional job description. It’s a dynamic and deeply rewarding position, requiring a balance of compassion, adaptability, and dedication. Tony, who recently celebrated ten years in the role, offers a glimpse into what it takes to thrive as a residential support worker at Progress.
No two days are ever the same at Oak Cottage, but structure and routine are vital to ensuring the smooth running of the home. Mornings are often the busiest time, as the team prepares the young people for school.
“You have to be on your toes,” Tony explains. “It’s about managing personal care, making sure everyone is dressed and ready, administering medication, and ensuring all school bags are packed. We also coordinate transport, which involves liaising with drivers to ensure everything runs on time.”
After the school run, Tony’s responsibilities shift to tasks like health and safety checks, organising the home, and preparing for the young people’s return in the afternoon. There are often medical appointments to attend or activities to plan, all tailored to the individual needs and preferences of the young people.
Evenings bring their own rhythm, from dinner preparation to bedtime routines. “Bedtime is a critical time,” Tony shares. “For some young people, it takes up to an hour due to their needs, especially if hoists or baths are involved. By the time everyone is settled, there’s a sense of fulfilment in knowing the day has gone well.”
Beyond the Basics: Building Relationships
What truly sets the role apart is the emphasis on relationship-building. For Tony, it’s about being a constant presence in the lives of the young people. “I’ve been here longer than most of them, so I’m a familiar face they can rely on,” he says.
The role also involves fostering strong professional relationships with families and social workers. “It’s about working together for the best interests of the young people,” Tony explains. “Receiving compliments from families or social workers is always rewarding, as it shows the positive impact we’re having.”
Working with young people who have complex needs comes with challenges. Whether it’s a medical emergency in the middle of the night or managing behaviours that can be unpredictable, resilience and teamwork are crucial.
Tony highlights the importance of debriefs and team meetings. “We support each other, especially after tough situations. Talking things through helps us improve and ensures we’re always delivering the best care possible.”
The Rewards of the Role
For Tony, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. Whether it’s witnessing a young person’s progress, receiving positive feedback from families, or sharing joyful moments during activities and holidays, the role offers immense personal fulfilment.
“One of my most memorable moments was taking young people to a disco in Walsall,” Tony recalls. “Seeing them enjoying themselves and doing what every teenager does was incredible. Moments like that make it all worthwhile.”
Skills That Make a Difference
The role of a residential support worker demands a unique set of skills. Empathy, adaptability, and an ability to see things from the perspective of the young people are essential. Tony has also developed practical skills, such as administering medication and coordinating care during hospital visits.
“You have to think ahead,” he explains. “It’s about anticipating their needs and ensuring every decision supports their wellbeing.”
At Oak Cottage, teamwork is at the heart of everything. New staff members are supported with training, risk assessments, and mentorship from experienced workers like Tony. “It’s about sharing knowledge and ensuring everyone feels confident in their role,” he says.
More Than Just a Job
For Tony, being a residential support worker is more than a job—it’s a calling. “It’s about making a difference, day in and day out. This role has given me a sense of purpose and fulfilment I never had before.”
At Oak Cottage, residential support workers like Tony are the unsung heroes, creating a safe, nurturing environment where young people can thrive. It’s a challenging but deeply rewarding role that leaves a lasting impact on the lives of those they care for.