Esther Recognised as Workplace Mentor at Superstar Awards 2025

At this year’s Progress Superstar Awards, Esther was celebrated for the difference she makes every day, receiving the Workplace Mentor Award for her warmth, patience and commitment to supporting others.

Esther’s colleagues describe her as the person everyone turns to for guidance and reassurance. She listens, shares her experience and helps others grow in confidence, whether they’re new to Progress or part of the wider team.

She’s a mentor for all staff, both existing and new, and even extends that support to agency colleagues,” said Harry during the presentation. “She shares her knowledge, listens and is patient. She’s helped a new member of staff pass probation and creates a lovely atmosphere on the night shift. Someone wrote this about her: “She’s one of the best night workers I’ve ever worked with”.

During the award presentation, Managing Director Claire Rogers spoke about the importance of Esther’s role, especially for colleagues who work through the night.

“Working nights can sometimes feel isolating,” Claire said. “It’s so important that we have people like Esther who make others feel connected and supported, even during the quietest hours. What she does makes a real difference to our staff and to the children and young people in our care.”

Esther’s calm presence and genuine care bring out the best in those around her. Her mentoring helps create a workplace where everyone feels valued and part of something bigger, no matter what shift they work.

If Esther’s story inspires you and you’d like to join a team that truly values its people, we’d love to meet you at one of our upcoming recruitment events:

Wolverhampton Jobs Fair – Molineux Stadium, 5 November
Children’s Services Recruitment Day – Progress Head Office, 11 November

Fill in the short form below to let us know you’re coming. It could be the start of your own Progress story.

    Megan Wins Rising Star Award at Progress Superstar Awards 2025

    Progress Children’s Services is celebrating another proud moment as Megan, Team Leader at Oak Cottage, was named the winner of the Rising Star Award at this year’s Progress Superstar Awards. The award was presented by Harjinder Deo, Finance Manager at Progress, in recognition of Megan’s remarkable growth and dedication to the people she supports.

    Megan’s journey with Progress has been one of drive, hard work and heart. In just twelve months, she rose from support worker to team leader, taking on more responsibility and helping to strengthen her team’s work with children and young people. She has supported her manager with administrative tasks, contributed to inspections and built trusted relationships with colleagues, children and external partners.

    “Megan has developed from a support worker to a team leader in the last 12 months,” said Harry during the presentation. “She’s gone from not leading shifts to helping with everything from admin and Reg 44s to inspections. She’s supported her colleagues and the children, formed strong relationships and always goes the extra mile.”

    Megan was nominated by both colleagues and senior staff, a reflection of the trust and respect she’s earned across the service. Her story is already familiar to many within Progress, following the publication of From Support Worker to Team Leader in Twelve Months, which highlighted her rapid progression and commitment to making a difference.

    The Rising Star Award shines a light on individuals who demonstrate exceptional personal and professional growth, showing initiative, leadership and an unwavering commitment to high-quality care. Megan embodies those values every day in her work.

    Are you inspired by Megan’s journey at Progress? Apply to attend our next recruitment event. Fill the form below:

      Progress Celebrates the Festival of Lights

      This evening, as colleagues across Progress light candles and clay lamps to mark Diwali, we pause to reflect on what this festival of lights represents, and what its message of renewal, hope and togetherness offers us as a team.

      Falling this year on Monday 20 October, Diwali marks the Amavasya, or darkest night, of the Hindu month of Kartik, and the high point of a five-day festival that begins with Dhanteras and ends with Bhai Dooj. Across faiths and regions, Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and good over evil.

      In many traditions, it commemorates the return of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshman to Ayodhya after years in exile — a joyous homecoming celebrated with rows of lamps and colourful rangoli designs. Preparations begin weeks in advance as homes and workplaces are cleaned and decorated, and families gather to share gifts, sweets and festive meals.

      For Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Newar Buddhists, Diwali carries different historical meanings but a shared spirit of gratitude and optimism. It reminds us all to celebrate resilience, renewal and community.

      At Progress, that message feels especially meaningful. Amid busy schedules, new projects and daily challenges, Diwali invites us to keep our inner lights burning — to approach our work with compassion, curiosity and care.

      “Diwali reminds us that even the smallest light can brighten the darkest corner,” said Bal Dhanoa MBE, Founder and CEO of Progress. “At Progress, every act of care, trust, respect and progress is a light we share. Together, we make our community shine brighter — for the people we support and for one another.”

      Whether attending a community event, lighting a candle at home or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, we wish a joyful and prosperous Diwali to all who celebrate — and light, warmth and happiness to everyone across the Progress family.

      Jackie Recognised for Inspirational Leadership at Superstar Awards 2025

      At this year’s Progress Superstar Awards, Jackie, Registered Manager at Nightingale House, Progress Adult Services, received the Inspirational Leadership Award.

      This award celebrates people who lead not just with skill, but with heart. It honours those who support others, build trust and quietly help their teams to shine. For Managing Director Claire Rogers, who judged this year’s category, it was a particularly powerful moment.

      “We had a ridiculous number of nominations for Inspirational Leadership this year,” Claire said as she introduced the award. “Some people got a lot of nominations, but one person really stood out. Their team said amazing things about them. They lead from the back, they give others the opportunity to shine, they encourage, support and empower. They’re always there when someone needs them.”

      Claire spoke about how Jackie’s leadership truly came through during one of the most difficult moments the team at Nightingale House has faced.

      “This particular year has been challenging because they lost a member of staff. Their leadership through that moment was extraordinary. They moved from the back to the front and stood there for their team, putting their own emotions aside to hold everyone together.”

      “Jackie, you got so many nominations from your team. They appreciate you so much. What you did at that time when your team needed your support made all the difference.”

      Jackie’s award reflects the quiet strength that so many of her colleagues recognise in her. She leads with care, compassion and courage — often putting others before herself. Her impact goes far beyond her job title. She inspires those around her, and in the process, lifts her whole team.

      Congratulations, Jackie. Your leadership is seen, felt and celebrated.

      Jackie is currently recruiting support workers for her adult residential care service in Derby. Click here to apply.

      Becky Celebrated for “Going Above and Beyond” at Superstar Awards 2025

      At this year’s Progress Superstar Awards, Becky, a team member at Stourbridge House, was recognised for her exceptional commitment to children and young people, receiving the Going Above and Beyond Award.

      Becky’s colleagues described her as “inspirational”, praising the way she goes the extra mile to make every child feel special. From thoughtful touches to unforgettable celebrations, her dedication helps create moments that matter for the children in her care.

      “She was described as a perfect worker, someone who is always on her game and does everything she can when those special moments come up in children’s lives. If they come into service, it’s made into an occasion,” said Phil McDonald, Head of Adult Services at Progress,  during the presentation.

      The Going Above and Beyond category is one of the most popular at the annual conference, celebrating staff who consistently put care, compassion and creativity into action. Becky’s win reflects the strong culture of dedication and teamwork at Stourbridge House and across Progress services.

      Congratulations Becky, and thank you for everything you do to make a difference.

      “Making a Difference” Award for Fostering Team’s Duo

      The fostering team’s duo of Carla and Jo was recognised for its outstanding contribution to the organisation, winning the prestigious Making a Difference Award at this year’s Progress Annual Superstar Awards.

      The award was presented to Carla and Jo for their exceptional impact on Progress foster carers and the wider Progress social work team. Presenting the award, Tina Bhardwaj, Head of Children’s Services, praised their remarkable dedication.

      “This award is so well deserved,” said Tina. “Carla and Jo consistently go above and beyond, providing steady guidance and practical support to foster carers, colleagues and young people. Their passion for making a real difference is felt across the service every single day.”

      The Making a Difference category is one of the most well nominated at the annual conference, with nominations submitted across Progress, highlighting the passion of individuals and teams across the organisation. This year’s recognition highlights the critical role the fostering team plays in ensuring that children and young people receive stable, nurturing support.

      L-R: Claire Rogers (Progress Managing), Jo, Carla, and Tina (Head of Children’s Services, Progress)

      “What makes this recognition so special,” added Michelle Earp, Fostering Manager, “is that it reflects what we see and feel all the time. Carla and Jo embody the values of fostering — care, advocacy, and unwavering commitment. Their work has strengthened our fostering provision, supported carers through challenging moments, and helped create the best possible outcomes for children.”

      Bal Dhanoa MBE, Progress’ Founder and CEO, also commended the team: “This recognition is about more than two individuals. It’s about the spirit of collaboration and care that runs through our fostering service. Carla and Jo have shown exceptional commitment in practice, setting an example of what it truly means to keep children at the heart of everything we do.”

      The award is a testament not only to Carla and Jo’s individual contributions, but also to the strength and resilience of the entire fostering service at Progress. Their work embodies the organisation’s values of care, trust, respect and Progress.

      “We’re incredibly proud of our fostering team,” Progress’ Managing Director, Claire Rogers, added. “Their impact goes far beyond their immediate service. They help to build brighter futures for children, support carers, and strengthen our entire organisation.”

      The Progress Annual Superstar Awards is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate staff achievements across services. This year’s event brought together colleagues from across the organisation to share experiences, honour award winners and reflect on the year’s milestones.

      Progress Annual Conference 2025: Celebrating Staff, Sharing Voices, Shaping the Future

      Progress is delighted to announce that our Annual Conference will take place next week, Tuesday 7 October 2025, bringing together staff from across the organisation for a day of learning, connection, and celebration.

      The conference is one of the most important events in the Progress calendar. It provides an opportunity to reflect on achievements, share organisational updates, and hear directly from staff whose voices and experiences continue to shape the future direction of Progress.

      This year’s agenda has been carefully designed to combine inspiring updates with interactive workshops, ensuring that colleagues can both contribute to discussions and take away new ideas to support their work.

      Claire Rogers, Managing Director of Progress, said:
      “Our Annual Conference is about more than just bringing people together in one room. It is about creating a space where every voice matters, where staff can share ideas and experiences, and where we can celebrate the incredible work being done every single day across Progress. I am looking forward to seeing everyone and hearing the conversations that will help us grow stronger as an organisation.”

      A highlight of the day will once again be the Progress Superstar Awards and Long Service Awards, shining a spotlight on colleagues who have gone above and beyond in their roles, as well as those who have dedicated many years of service to supporting children, young people, and adults in our care.

      The event also provides an opportunity to celebrate the unique Progress culture — one rooted in care, trust, respect, and progress for every individual. With food, conversation, and connection, the conference promises to be both an inspiring and memorable day.

      Stay tuned for updates and highlights from the conference on the Progress website and social media channels.