01902 561066
Contact Us
Progress Care

Category: Corporate

A Day in the Life: Renee’s Journey at The Hub

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Renee, a support worker (supported living) at The Hub Service at Progress, brings a vibrant and compassionate spirit to her role, making a significant impact on the lives of young adults with severe learning disabilities and complex needs. Renee recently shared her experiences, daily routines, and the joy she finds in her work. 

Originally from Bermuda, Renee’s career began in sales and retail before she moved to the UK seven years ago. She joined Progress a little over a year ago and quickly adapted to her new role. Reflecting on her journey, Renee said, “I just come in, and whatever the young person feels like doing, we do. My plan is to have fun, take care of them the best I can, and make sure they enjoy their life.” 

A typical day for Renee involves a mix of activities tailored to the needs and preferences of the young adults she supports. She explained, “If the young person feels like going out, we go out. If not, we find fun things to do indoors.” Her flexibility and enthusiasm are key to creating a positive and engaging environment for the residents. 

One of the most memorable moments for Renee was a birthday celebration for a young girl at The Hub. “We had an animal man come, and all the young people were excited to see and hold the animals. Everyone had fun, and it went smoothly. The birthday girl was so happy; she said, ‘I love you. This is nice.’ It warmed my heart,” Renee recalled. 

Despite the challenges, Renee finds immense fulfilment in her work. She emphasised, “My goal is to make them have fun and enjoy different things. Seeing them smile and engage with people warms my heart.” Her dedication to ensuring that each day is enjoyable and meaningful for the residents is evident in her approach. 

Renee also highlighted the supportive and family-like atmosphere among the team at The Hub. “We stick together and help each other out. Management is always there to support us, and I appreciate how they meet me halfway, especially when I have to adjust my work schedule due to personal issues,” she said. 

When asked about the qualities needed to excel in her role, Renee mentioned patience, clarity, teamwork, and good communication. “I know passion and patience are crucial,” she added. 

Renee’s journey at The Hub is a testament to the transformative power of dedicated care and a positive attitude. Her ability to create a fun and nurturing environment not only enriches the lives of the young adults she supports but also brings her a sense of joy and accomplishment. As she continues to grow in her role, Renee remains committed to making a difference, one smile at a time. 

If you are suitably qualified and have a passion for working with young people in a supportive and dynamic environment, we encourage you to explore the career opportunities at Progress. Click here to learn more about our current vacancies and how you can become part of The Hub family. 

Progress Celebrates Parents and Builds Community at Successful Parents’ Day Event

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Stourbridge House, an integral part of Progress, recently hosted a heartwarming and successful Parents’ Day event at the Head Office. This event aimed to provide a much-needed support network for the parents of the young persons in their care. Bethany Jordan, Interim Home Manager, and Jessica Freeman, Interim Deputy Manager, shared insights about the event’s inspiration and impact.

The idea for the Parents’ Day event originated from parent feedback indicating feelings of isolation and a lack of support. Stourbridge House responded by creating a space for parents to come together, share experiences, and form supportive connections. “We wanted to bring everyone together because we’ve had feedback from some of the parents that they feel like they’re on their own,” said Bethany Jordan. “They feel like they don’t have any support from anyone external apart from giving gifts.”

The event proved to be a resounding success, with parents engaging in meaningful conversations about their challenges and triumphs, exchanging advice on places to take their children, and discussing the support they receive. The relaxed atmosphere allowed for genuine interactions between parents and staff, fostering a sense of community and trust. “We wanted to bring them together so they can support each other as well as us,” Bethany added.

Parents had the opportunity to connect with the staff on a personal level, which was greatly appreciated. Positive feedback from parents emphasised the importance of such events, with several of them expressing a desire for the Parents’ Day to become a regular occurrence. Stourbridge House hopes to maintain and strengthen this support network.

A parent who attended the event shared her deep appreciation for Stourbridge House, describing herself as an unpaid advocate for their services. She recounted how the team facilitated her child’s trip abroad and her son’s dream visit to Harry Potter Studios. “We’ve got to keep Stourbridge House. I have enough trust in Stourbridge House and the team there,” she stated.

Another parent highlighted her son’s love for Stourbridge House, considering it his second home. She praised the team’s excellent communication and the progress her son has made in independence, cooking, personal hygiene, and laundry. “I thank the staff for that because I know that when he is in a vulnerable situation, they put his care needs first; they will make sure that he is well looked after.”

Bethany and Jessica were pleased with the positive feedback and are eager to incorporate suggestions for future events. One idea includes sending detailed emails with photos and updates about the children’s activities and well-being to enhance communication with parents.

Bethany expressed her pride in the positive impact Stourbridge House has on the children and their families. “We want to see a difference in the children. We want to see a difference in the families that we’re supporting,” she said. The dedication and collaboration of the team at Stourbridge House are pivotal to their success. “The team are a tight-knit team. They have their own roles, they all have their goals, but they work really, really well together,” Bethany remarked. “I like seeing the difference that we’re making. I like seeing how happy and comfortable they are at Stourbridge House.”

The Parents’ Day event at Stourbridge House exemplifies Progress’s commitment to supporting families and fostering a strong sense of community. The team looks forward to hosting more events in the future, continually striving to enhance the support network for the parents and children they serve.

Summer at Progress: “My Progress Value” Encourages Creative Expression Among Young People

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

WOLVERHAMPTON, 22nd July 2024 – Progress is thrilled to announce the launch of the “My Progress Value” Holiday Challenge, a stimulating initiative aimed at celebrating the creativity and talent of young people across Progress’ homes and foster care network. From Tuesday 23rd July to Friday 30th August, participants will have the opportunity to express their interpretation of Progress’ values through various creative channels such as painting, writing, or any other form of artistic expression. 

The Challenge, designed to foster camaraderie and healthy competition, encourages collaboration between young people, support workers, and foster carers to showcase what Progress’ values mean to them. Whether it’s care, trust, respect, or progress, participants are invited to unleash their creativity and share their unique perspectives. 

“We are excited to launch the ‘My Progress Value’ Holiday Challenge, which aims to make every holiday period a memorable and collaborative experience for everyone involved,” said Angeline Freer, Head of Corporate and Commercial Services, Progress. “This competition not only celebrates the creativity of our young people but also promotes teamwork and highlights the values that define Progress.” 

The initiative aligns with Progress’ commitment to prioritise the well-being and development of young individuals. By engaging participants in a creative challenge during the holiday period, Progress aims to strengthen inter-service collaboration, demonstrate impact, and promote brand awareness. 

“We believe that initiatives like the ‘My Progress Value’ Holiday Challenge play a crucial role in showcasing the talent and creativity of our young people,” said Claire Rogers, Managing Director, Progress. “Through this competition, we aim to foster a sense of pride and accomplishment among participants while also telling the unique stories and perspectives of the young people at the heart of Progress’ services.” 

The Challenge will culminate in the selection of winners, whose submissions will be showcased across and beyond Progress. Additionally, a media campaign will highlight each submission, further amplifying the voices and talents of the young people. 

“We are committed to creating an inclusive and engaging environment for our young people, and the ‘My Progress Value’ Holiday Challenge is a testament to that commitment,” said Bal Dhanoa, Chief Executive Officer, Progress. “We look forward to seeing the creativity and passion that this competition will inspire.”

What you need to know about The Hub

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At Progress, The Hub is a critically important service through which we provide uniquely impactful and personalised support and care services. Kimberley Parkes, the Service Lead, shared insights into the inspirational work being done at The Hub. 

Describing the evolution of The Hub, Kimberley highlighted the significant growth and transformation of the service. “It’s much more fun now,” she remarked. Over the years, The Hub has expanded to include supported living, allowing for a more consistent and impactful approach. Unlike temporary respite care, supported living enables sustained progress and the achievement of long-term goals. “We currently support young adults and their families in the community,” Kimberley explained. 

One of the most remarkable aspects of The Hub is its commitment to enabling independence and normalcy for its residents. Kimberley recounted a touching example: “There was someone who had never been to the seaside before and supporting them to see it for the first time was incredible.” The Hub’s philosophy is centred on empowering individuals to achieve their best lives, regardless of their challenges. 

The team at The Hub is integral to its success. Kimberley outlined the qualities sought in team members: trustworthiness, a willingness to take positive risks, and innate kindness. “We need some energy; we want sparking, exciting people,” she stated. This dynamic and compassionate approach is essential in creating a supportive and stimulating environment for both staff and residents. 

A typical day at The Hub involves a blend of routine tasks and personalised activities designed to promote independence and well-being. “From domestic chores to personal care, and robust activity schedules including swimming and physio exercises, we tailor our support to each individual’s needs,” Kimberley said. The emphasis on engaging and meaningful activities ensures that both staff and young people find joy and purpose in their daily interactions. 

The uniqueness of The Hub extends to its approach to professional development. Kimberley’s own career progression within Progress exemplifies the opportunities available. “From a five-hour-a-week flexible support worker to my current role, I’ve had varied roles and experiences over the last eight years,” she shared. This culture of growth and empowerment is mirrored in the paths of many team leaders who have risen through the ranks. 

The Hub Service at Progress, without any doubts, through its innovative and compassionate approach, continues to empower young adults to live their best lives, creating lasting impacts on individuals and the community. As Kimberley aptly puts it, “We want them to achieve things they’ve not necessarily achieved before and experience things they’ve never experienced.” 

If you are suitably qualified and have a passion for working with young people in a supportive and dynamic environment, we encourage you to explore the career opportunities at Progress. Click here to learn more about our current vacancies and how you can become part of The Hub family. 

A Day with Uncle Ray, a Support Worker with Progress Children’s Services

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Rilford, known affectionately as Uncle Ray, is a residential support worker at Portland House. Just a few months into the role, he has seamlessly integrated into the team, contributing significantly to the daily activities, and positively impacting the young people. 

With decades of experience working with children and adults with severe learning disabilities, complex needs, and challenging behaviours,  

Rilford’s journey to Progress began decades earlier in the southern African country of Zimbabwe where he trained as a teacher, a profession he also practised for a while after moving to the UK. He then transitioned to the care sector, applying his skills with young people to support individuals of various age groups, providing a wide array of care. Since joining Progress, Uncle Ray has demonstrated impressive competence, significant maturity and extensive experience working with children with severe learning disabilities, complex needs, and challenging behaviours. 

Starting his shift at Portland House, Rilford quickly dives into sorting out groceries. With meticulous care, he organises the items to cater to the preferences of the young residents, such as placing eggs in a secure drawer to prevent breakage and storing apples both in the fridge and at room temperature to suit different tastes. 

After handling the groceries, Rilford cleans the kitchen, and arranges the dishes in the dishwasher. His attention to detail and consideration for the children’s needs are evident in every task he undertakes. 

Rilford’s role keeps him active, as he often clocks over 14,000 steps a day while engaging with the children, both indoors and outdoors. He emphasizes the importance of staying active and the positive impact it has on his health. 

Having undergone induction at Progress’s head office, Rilford was eager to join the team. He fondly recalls playing on the swings during his initial weeks. His natural rapport with the children earned him the nickname “Uncle Ray,” and he is well-liked by everyone at Portland House. 

His approach to support work is based on understanding and respecting the intellectual capacities of the young people. “They are intelligent, and you must respect that. A good approach makes day-to-day activities smooth for everyone,” Rilford says. 

Manager Cosmos commends Rilford’s willingness to learn and adapt quickly. “He has fit in well and is always ready to learn,” Cosmos notes. 

As the school runs begin, Rilford is ready to focus on the young person staying behind. They discuss activities for the afternoon, ensuring everything they do is safe and enjoyable. Rilford believes in offering choices and explaining decisions, fostering a respectful and supportive environment. 

Rilford is committed to making each moment special for the children and hopes to continue earning the trust and support of his team members. 

If you are passionate about support work and want to make a difference, consider joining the team at Portland House. Visit progresscare.co.uk/jobs for our latest career opportunities across Progress. 

It’s Coming Home: Progress’ Young People Celebrate England’s Euro Victory

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

England secured a dramatic last-minute victory over the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-final, earning a spot in the final against Spain. Ollie Watkins’ brilliant strike sealed the win for England, setting up an era-defining showdown with Spain as they aim to be crowned the Champions of Europe, bring the trophy home and end years of hurt. The Three Lions’ fans are eagerly awaiting the final match to see if England can clinch their first European Championship title.

At Progress, our young people believe that it is coming home.

At Portland House, the young people joined in the celebration of the qualification for the final match as they joined the rest of the country in celebrating the national team’s win over the Netherlands, setting the stage for a monumental showdown with Spain.

With branded flags, table covers, “glasses,” plates, banners, stickers, and paper cups, the home came alive with excitement throughout the football match. At the blast of the final whistle, the young people and other team members who watched the match shared the sentiments of football fans across the country. It might actually be coming home this time around.

Football has a profoundly positive impact on young people, especially those with special needs and those in care. It encourages teamwork, boosts self-esteem, and provides a sense of belonging and achievement. It also helps young people to develop social skills, build friendships, and experience the joy of collective celebration.

At Progress, we understand the power of teamwork and shared goals, just like in football. We provide outstanding care and support, creating an environment where everyone can thrive and achieve their full potential.

If you’re a football fan who is passionate about support work, consider joining our team at Progress. Visit progresscare.co.uk/jobs for our latest career opportunities. Together, we can make a difference.

Bal Shares Excitement of Forthcoming MBE Award with Progress Team

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

“I couldn’t have achieved this without you. This MBE is for all of us, it is a recognition of our collective effort.”

In a heartwarming virtual meeting with the Progress team on Monday, Bal Dhanoa, Progress’ Founder and CEO, and a stalwart in the social care sector in the UK, shared the thrilling news of her forthcoming visit to Windsor Castle to receive her latest recognition – a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

According to the official gazette announcing the honour, Bal is set to receive the MBE in recognition of her outstanding work with children and their families. This prestigious honour recognises her exceptional contributions to social care over the past four decades.

Addressing the Progress team, Bal, with palpable emotion, recounted the pride and honour she felt upon learning of her forthcoming MBE, underscoring her dedication to social care and her long-standing commitment to communities.

Bal’s journey in social care spans over four decades, beginning at the age of 18. She emphasised the significance of the MBE not just for herself, but for her entire family. “My family has been in this country for 100 years, contributing to its development. This award is a testament to our sacrifices and hard work,” Bal remarked.

Reflecting on her career, she shared, “I always want to help people, and I am inspired by my brother, who I have cared for all my life.” Her early experiences in voluntary work and social services laid the foundation for her impactful career, including transforming care homes and setting up numerous social care projects. She vividly recalled the challenges she faced, from dealing with inadequate care conditions to pushing for systemic changes, always driven by a deep-seated desire to improve the lives of young people and vulnerable individuals.

Bal’s passion for social care led her to establish Progress, a company that has thrived despite numerous challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. “COVID was a lesson for us all, but the strength and resilience of our team ensured we emerged stronger,” she noted, praising the leadership and teamwork that guided them through tough times.

Looking ahead, Bal expressed her ongoing commitment to mentoring and supporting young people in the sector. “What inspires me now is seeing young people passionate about making a difference in social care. It is rewarding to nurture their potential and help them achieve their goals,” she said.

The meeting also offered a glimpse into Bal’s personal side. She shared a humorous anecdote about receiving the MBE notification. Mistaking the official brown envelope for a tax bill, she hesitated to open it. “When I finally did, I nearly fell off my chair! It was an incredible surprise,” she laughed, recounting the joy and disbelief she felt.

In her closing remarks, Bal thanked her team at Progress, attributing her success to their unwavering support. “I could not have achieved this without you. This MBE is for all of us, it is a recognition of our collective effort,” she said, her voice filled with gratitude.

As the meeting concluded, Bal’s heartfelt words resonated with the team members on the call, reaffirming the importance of dedication, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of betterment in social care. Bal’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have, inspiring others to strive for excellence and compassion in their own journeys.

Bal Dhanoa to receive MBE for Services to Children with Special Educational Needs and Their Families

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Bal Dhanoa, Founder and Chief Executive of Progress Care Solutions, is set to receive an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the King’s Birthday 2024 Honours List. She receives the MBE for her outstanding work with children and families. This prestigious honour recognises her outstanding contributions to social care over the past four decades.

“The recognition is for her services to children with special educational needs and their families. Bal has dedicated her life to making a difference, and enabling disabled people to lead fulfilling lives,” said Claire Rogers, Managing Director, Progress.

Bal’s career has been marked by pioneering advancements in care for disabled children and young people. She championed respite care, providing much-needed breaks for families while offering enriching experiences for children. Her work with Birmingham City Council’s Shared Care Programme gained national recognition, shaping government initiatives for disabled children.

Progress was founded in 2000 building on Bal’s passion for doing things differently, and has since grown into a leading and trusted provider of care for children and adults in the Midlands through a wide range of services, including residential homes, fostering services, and community-based support.

“I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive this MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours,” said Bal. “This recognition is not just for me, but for the entire Progress team, my family, and the strong women who have inspired me throughout my life.”

Bal’s commitment to social care extends beyond her professional work. She is a dedicated supporter of various charities, including initiatives to improve the lives of looked-after children.

Her charitable works include supporting various charities through out the years, and sponsoring young vulnerable girls to achieve Education so they are able to work and support their families and communities in India and Africa.

The MBE is a testament to Bal’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals and her significant contributions to the social care sector.

National Carers’ Week 2024: Acknowledging the Silent Workforce

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

As National Carers’ Week 2024 unfolds, it is crucial to shine a light on the unsung heroes who balance professional and personal responsibilities with immense dedication. This year’s theme, “Recognising and Supporting Carers in the Community,” underscores the importance of acknowledging and assisting those who care for others, often at great personal sacrifice. 

Claire Rogers, Managing Director of Progress, highlights the challenges carers face daily. In her recent video message, Claire shared her insights and firsthand experiences, emphasising the increased pressures on carers, particularly post-COVID-19. 

“A lot of us these days have got additional responsibilities outside of work. And after COVID, certainly there are more people that are needing support, whether you have children, whether you have relatives, close family members that are needing support, and that makes work harder,” Claire said, reflecting on the growing demands placed on carers. 

National Carers’ Week, organised by Carers UK, aims to raise awareness of the vital role carers play and the challenges they encounter. According to Carers UK, around one in nine people now have caring responsibilities, with one in six having to give up their jobs to care for loved ones. This statistic is particularly poignant in the social care sector, where professionals are disproportionately affected. 

Claire acknowledges this disparity, stating, “When we work in social care, we are disproportionately affected. I know certainly from my own experience because I was the carer in the family I was called upon when a family member needed that support. It could make it harder, when you’re doing that every day, and having that emotional connection to somebody just adds another layer of complexity onto caring for the person.” 

Progress, under Claire’s leadership, is committed to offering the flexibility needed to accommodate its team members that are also carers. “We recognise that we’ve got to be flexible in our work. Social care is a 24/7 industry. It is one where we can be flexible, we can offer alternatives, and that is what we are trying to do here at Progress — make sure that people can have a job that bends and flexes to life,” she said. 

Claire also stressed the importance of open communication between employers and employees to ensure that carers feel supported. “A conversation actually is really important, being open and honest and transparent about what’s going on, so that we can support you. It is life. And we want to be there and help you to progress and develop and not have to put your life on hold,” she explained. 

Carers UK encourages communities, employers, and policymakers to recognise the invaluable contributions of carers. During National Carers’ Week, various events and activities are organised to celebrate carers, provide them with support, and raise awareness about the issues they face. 

As we observe National Carers’ Week 2024, let us all take a moment to appreciate the dedication and resilience of carers who provide care and support selflessly. Their efforts ensure that vulnerable individuals receive the care they need while often juggling their own personal and professional lives. 

For more information about National Carers’ Week and how you can support carers in your community, visit Carers UK’s website. 

If you are inspired by the work that carers do and are interested in joining a supportive and flexible workplace, we invite you to explore the career opportunities available at Progress. Visit Progress Careers to find out more about how you can contribute to making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. 

Discover the Heartwarming World of Regis House: A Place Where Young People Flourish

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At Progress, we take immense pride in providing a nurturing and supportive environment for our young people. One of our standout services, Regis House, is a testament to our commitment to fostering a sense of community and belonging for all our young people. Led by the dedicated and passionate Annette, Regis House exemplifies our ethos of creating a family-like atmosphere where children can truly thrive. 

A Home Away from Home 

Regis House is more than just a young people’s home; it is a place where they feel safe, loved, and valued. As Annette, the manager, describes, “We very much pride ourselves on being as much a family home as we can possibly be, given the needs and the provision of the service that we are providing. We are very intimate as a home, and we pride ourselves on being as much a family home as anybody could ever have.” 

This intimate, family-oriented approach is what makes Regis House unique. Despite the challenges and the intensive care required, the team members at Regis House strive to create an environment that mirrors the warmth and support of a traditional family setting. This dedication is evident in the positive feedback from social workers and guardians who frequently commend the home for its intimate and nurturing atmosphere. 

One of the key aspects of life at Regis House is the emphasis on social interaction and community involvement. Annette highlights the importance of these activities, noting that they “promote social interaction, give opportunities to meet young people with similar needs, abilities, cultures, religions, and help build friendships in a safe and secure environment.” 

Whether it is a casual social event or a structured activity, the goal is always the same: to provide our young people with opportunities to engage with their peers, build lasting friendships, and feel a sense of normalcy and inclusion. These activities are crucial for their development, helping them to prepare for transitions into adult services and fostering a sense of independence and confidence. 

Why Work at Regis House? 

If you are passionate about making a real difference in the lives of children and young adults, Regis House offers a fulfilling and rewarding career opportunity. Here are a few reasons why you should consider joining our team: 

  1. Meaningful Impact: Your work will directly contribute to the well-being and development of young people who need it the most. You will play a crucial role in shaping their futures and providing them with the support they need to thrive. 
  1. Supportive Environment: At Regis House, you will be part of a team that values collaboration, empathy, and dedication. Despite the challenges, the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among the staff makes it a truly special place to work. 
  1. Professional Growth: Progress is committed to the professional development of our staff. We provide ongoing training and support to ensure that you have the skills and knowledge needed to excel in your role. 
  1. Community Engagement: You will have the opportunity to engage with a diverse community of young people, families, and professionals, broadening your experience and enhancing your impact. 

Join Us Today 

If you are suitably qualified and have a passion for working with young people in a supportive and dynamic environment, we encourage you to explore the career opportunities at Progress. Visit progresscare.co.uk/jobs to learn more about our current vacancies and how you can become part of the Regis House family. 

Together, we can continue to make a positive difference in the lives of the young people we serve. Regis House is not just a place to work; it is a place where you can make a lasting impact and help create a brighter future for all our residents.