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Category: Foster Care Stories

The Hub: Empowering Lives and Building Independence

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At the heart of Progress, The Hub is a vibrant supported living service dedicated to transforming the lives of young adults. Helmed by Kimberley Parkes, the service lead, and Rachael Thompson, the registered manager, The Hub fosters a nurturing environment where residents can achieve their full potential.  

The service is specially designed to support young adults between the ages of 18 and 27, offering a safe, inclusive space that empowers them to embrace independence while receiving the care they need. With its person-centered approach, The Hub is a vital lifeline for individuals and their families, providing more than just support—it offers hope, progress, and a brighter future. 

A Vision Beyond Care 

The Hub is guided by a vision that extends far beyond traditional care. It is a place where young adults are empowered to take control of their lives, no matter their circumstances. Residents with life-limiting or degenerative conditions are encouraged to achieve meaningful milestones, such as visiting the seaside for the first time or mastering life skills like preparing a meal. These achievements, while seemingly small, represent monumental steps toward independence and confidence for many residents. The team works tirelessly to create experiences that promote dignity and self-worth, helping individuals see beyond their limitations and focus on what they can achieve. 

Beyond its immediate impact on residents, The Hub’s philosophy reflects a deep commitment to community and inclusion. By emphasising normality and opportunity, the service ensures that residents feel a sense of belonging and self-respect. This philosophy inspires not only those living at The Hub but also their families and the community around them, demonstrating that every life is valuable and worth celebrating. Every success story becomes a testament to the profound impact of tailored, compassionate care, making The Hub a shining example of what supported living can accomplish. 

Central to this vision is the idea of fostering a future where every individual, regardless of their challenges, has the opportunity to thrive. The team at The Hub understands that empowerment comes in many forms, from encouraging small daily victories to helping residents achieve lifelong goals. This vision not only shapes the daily work of The Hub but also sets a standard for excellence in supported living services. By prioritising each resident’s unique journey, The Hub creates an environment where transformation and growth are both possible and celebrated. 

The Hub’s dedication to this vision ensures that it remains a leader in supported living. By focusing on the individual needs and aspirations of its residents, The Hub redefines care as a collaborative, empowering process. It is this holistic and forward-thinking approach that makes The Hub an invaluable resource for young adults and their families. 

Diverse Support Services 

The Hub’s services are as diverse as the individuals it supports, ensuring that each person receives care tailored to their specific needs. The service accommodates residents within its supported living facility while extending support to families in the surrounding community. This dual approach allows The Hub to cater to a wide spectrum of requirements, from those who need complex medical care to individuals seeking guidance in their journey toward greater independence. The variety of services reflects The Hub’s commitment to meeting individuals where they are and helping them move forward. 

For residents with complex needs, The Hub provides specialised care, including moving and positioning, peg feeding, and epilepsy management. These services are delivered with precision and compassion, ensuring the highest standards of care. At the same time, The Hub supports individuals with autism, ADHD, or other developmental conditions, helping them navigate daily challenges while building the skills and confidence to live more independently. This comprehensive approach ensures that The Hub is a place where all needs—physical, emotional, and social—are met. 

The community support aspect of The Hub is equally robust. By working closely with families, The Hub helps create a supportive network that extends beyond its walls. This collaborative effort strengthens the impact of its services, enabling young adults to thrive in their communities. Social workers and other external partners also play a crucial role, referring individuals to The Hub and helping tailor care plans that align with each person’s unique circumstances and goals. 

At the heart of these services is a commitment to fostering independence and dignity. Whether it’s through rehabilitation programs, daily living support, or community integration activities, The Hub’s services are designed to empower residents and their families. This holistic approach ensures that everyone involved benefits from the care and support provided, creating a ripple effect of positive change. 

A Typical Day at The Hub 

Life at The Hub is as dynamic and engaging as the individuals it supports. A typical day balances meeting basic needs, such as personal care and domestic tasks, with activities that promote growth, independence, and joy. Residents are encouraged to participate in daily routines, from preparing meals to organising their living spaces. These tasks not only instil a sense of responsibility but also help build valuable life skills that contribute to their independence over time. 

Physical and recreational activities form a core part of the daily schedule. Residents may attend physiotherapy sessions, participate in swimming for rehabilitation, or engage in hobbies that bring them joy and fulfilment. Each activity is tailored to the individual’s abilities and interests, ensuring that they are both challenging and rewarding. This approach helps residents stay active and engaged, promoting physical health and emotional well-being. 

The Hub’s staff play a crucial role in making each day meaningful. They work closely with residents to plan activities, set goals, and celebrate achievements. This collaborative dynamic ensures that residents feel supported and empowered, fostering a sense of agency in their own lives. Whether it’s organizing a day trip, helping with rehabilitation exercises, or simply sharing a moment of laughter, the staff are dedicated to making every day at The Hub memorable. 

What truly sets The Hub apart is its emphasis on creativity and initiative. Residents and staff alike are encouraged to explore new opportunities, from discovering local events to trying out new hobbies. This proactive approach ensures that life at The Hub is never stagnant but always evolving, offering residents and staff alike the chance to grow and thrive. 

The Team Behind the Success 

The Hub’s dedicated team is the backbone of its success. Led by Rachael and Kim, the team embodies qualities such as kindness, trustworthiness, and enthusiasm. Kim emphasises that while technical skills can be taught, traits like compassion and a positive attitude are innate and indispensable. This focus on character ensures that every team member contributes to the supportive and empowering environment that defines The Hub. 

The team’s diversity is another strength, with members bringing a wide range of skills and experiences to their roles. This diversity allows The Hub to cater to the unique needs of each resident, pairing them with staff whose expertise aligns with their requirements. Whether managing complex medical needs or providing emotional support, the team works collaboratively to ensure that every resident receives the best possible care. 

A culture of growth and development permeates the team at The Hub. Many staff members, including Kimberley, have advanced through various roles within Progress, gaining valuable experience along the way. This commitment to professional development not only benefits the staff but also enhances the quality of care provided to the people they support. By investing in their team, Progress ensures that The Hub remains at the forefront of supported living services. 

Finally, the team’s passion and dedication create a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere. Their commitment to empowering residents and fostering independence is evident in everything they do. By prioritising kindness, trust, and initiative, the team at The Hub continues to make a profound difference in the lives of the young adults they serve. It is this unwavering dedication that makes The Hub a truly exceptional place to live and work. 

Stourbridge Children: A Dynamic Service in Progress Children’s Services

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At Stourbridge Children, a crucial part of Progress Children’s Services, the commitment to providing high-quality care for children with challenging and complex needs is evident in the dedication and adaptability of the staff. This service operates around the clock, ensuring that every young person receives the personalised attention and support they require. 

Stourbridge Children is a hub of activity, catering to children with a range of complex needs. The staff engage in full hands-on operations, tailored to each child’s specific requirements. For example, one young person necessitates constant heart rate monitoring using an oximeter throughout the night. This level of care ensures that any changes in their condition are immediately addressed. 

“We’ve got children with challenging needs and children coming in with complex needs. It’s a full hands-on operation at the service,” shares a staff member, highlighting the intensive and attentive nature of their work. 

Routine and Familiarity 

While some children at the service require intensive monitoring, many others are familiar with the routines and environment of the house. These children seamlessly integrate into the daily schedule, engaging in activities and following established routines with ease. This familiarity helps in creating a stable and predictable environment, which is crucial for their well-being. 

“The majority of the kids, they just come in, they know the routine, they know the house so they just get in and do what they want or need to do,” a staff member explains. This autonomy allows children to feel more at home and secure in their surroundings. 

Night care at Stourbridge Children is also a critical component of the service. The staff are well-versed in the sleep patterns of the children, ensuring that those requiring special attention during the night receive it. This includes addressing any sleep disturbances and identifying their causes, which is vital for the overall health and well-being of the children. 

“If any child is struggling with sleep, we have to find out what is causing that lack of sleep,” a team member emphasises, underscoring the importance of attentive and responsive care. 

A Dynamic and Engaging Environment One of the most rewarding aspects of working at Stourbridge Children is the dynamic and ever-changing environment. Each day brings new experiences, particularly when new young people join the service. This constant evolution keeps the work engaging and allows staff to encounter a wide range of behaviours and challenges, fostering a rich learning experience. 

“It’s not boring. The days are not the same, especially when we have new young people joining us. It’s interesting because we are always seeing different levels of behaviours,” a staff member notes. This diversity makes the service a stimulating place to work and grow professionally. 

Join Our Team 

Stourbridge Children is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of children with challenging and complex needs. If you are passionate about providing exceptional care and are looking for a dynamic and fulfilling career, consider joining our team. Explore career opportunities at progresscare.co.uk/jobs and become part of a service that is truly making a difference. 

Reg 44: Progress Earns Praise for Exceptional Care and Support

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

All children are progressing extremely well and receiving the individualised care they need to flourish. 

Regis House, a key home under Progress Children’s Services, has received glowing feedback following its latest independent Regulation 44 review. The report highlighted exceptional care and the remarkable progress of children within its care. 

“All children are progressing extremely well and receiving the individualised care they need to flourish,” the independent Regulation 44 visitor remarked. This assessment underscores the staff’s commitment to fostering a nurturing and empowering environment. 

The report also praised the team’s focused efforts in documenting and celebrating the achievements of the children, further validating their dedication to recognising and reinforcing individual milestones. The recent Progress Annual Conference was singled out as a major success, leaving the staff inspired and reenergised to continue their outstanding work. 

Regulation 44 visits are monthly independent reviews mandated under The Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015. They ensure that children’s homes meet rigorous standards of safety, welfare, and quality of care. These visits provide impartial insights into operations while spotlighting areas of success and opportunities for continuous improvement. 

This recognition is a testament to the exceptional work of the Regis House team, who remain committed to providing the highest standard of care. “We are incredibly proud of our team’s dedication and the incredible progress the children are making,” said Tina Bhardwaj, Head of Children’s Services, Progress. “This feedback reaffirms our mission to empower every child to thrive.” 

Team Leadership at Oak Cottage: A Balancing Act of Care and Coordination

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Oak Cottage is a unique and dynamic home for young people with complex needs, and one of its team leaders is Kelly. Her role embodies a delicate balance of leadership, hands-on care, and strategic oversight, ensuring both the young people and staff thrive in a supportive and nurturing environment. 

Kelly’s journey to team leadership began with her role as a residential support worker (RSW), which she held for just six months before stepping up to lead the team. With a background in health and social care and experience in mental health work, she quickly adapted to the demands of the role, thanks in part to guidance from seasoned colleagues like Tony Marsden. 

“Tony coached me into being a team leader,” she shared. “It’s a big shift—from focusing solely on the young people to overseeing the entire house, managing the staff, and ensuring the young people’s needs are met. It’s about balancing it all.” 

Kelly’s days are anything but predictable. Mornings begin with the hustle of preparing young people for school, from managing personal care to ensuring all their essentials are ready. Once the young people are off, Kelly and her colleagues dive into administrative and management tasks, often juggling schedules, staffing issues, and compliance responsibilities. 

Afternoons and evenings bring the young people back, filling the house with energy and laughter. “It’s like organised chaos,” Kelly explained. “Each young person has their own personality and needs, and they all interact in such unique ways. Watching the eldest and youngest bond or manage their quirks is both challenging and heartwarming.” 

Leading with Empathy 

A hallmark of Kelly’s leadership style is her ability to connect deeply with both the young people and her staff. She emphasises the importance of creating a familial atmosphere at Oak Cottage. “We’re basically the kids’ family,” she said. “We might not be their biological parents, but they see us as family, and it’s our job to provide the love and attention they need.” 

Her approach extends to her team as well. Kelly ensures staff feel supported, particularly during difficult times. When she returned after a period of illness, she noticed a disconnect within the team and took steps to rebuild camaraderie and focus. “You have to remind everyone that we’re all here for the same reason: to care for these kids and give them the best experiences possible.” 

As a team leader, Kelly faces the dual challenge of managing a high-energy home and ensuring all compliance and administrative duties are met. “It’s about finding the balance,” she said. “You can’t let the paperwork overshadow the care we’re here to provide. At the same time, everything needs to be documented to keep things running smoothly.” 

She also deals with the emotional weight of the role, particularly when young people move on from Oak Cottage. “It’s hard when a child you’ve bonded with leaves,” she admitted. “But it’s rewarding to know you’ve played a part in their journey.” 

Building a Solid Team 

Kelly believes a strong, cohesive team is vital to the success of Oak Cottage. She mentors new staff members, sharing her knowledge and encouraging them to embrace the home’s fast-paced and often unpredictable environment. “You won’t bond with every young person the same way, but it’s about making the most of the bonds you do form,” she said. 

For Kelly, enjoying the work is essential. “You have to find joy in the good moments, even on tough days. It’s not just a job; it’s about creating a positive impact on these young lives.” 

Looking to the Future 

Kelly is committed to growing in her role while ensuring she masters each step of her career progression. “I want to be solid in every position I hold, from RSW to team leader and beyond. That way, I can lead with confidence and experience.” 

Her vision for team leadership at Oak Cottage is clear: “It’s about oversight, making sure nothing is missed, and fostering an environment where the kids can thrive and the staff feel fulfilled.” 

Oak Cottage continues to be a place of laughter, resilience, and care. The dedication of the entire team to both the young people and each other exemplifies what it means to lead with empathy, strength, and a focus on making a difference. 

For Kelly, the role of team leader is more than a job—it’s a calling. “It’s about helping these young people see that there’s good in the world and that the bad won’t happen again. That’s what makes this work so meaningful.” 

The Role of a Deputy Manager at Oak Cottage: Mandy’s Perspective

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At Oak Cottage, a home dedicated to supporting young people with complex needs, the deputy manager plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of the home and the wellbeing of both staff and residents. Mandy is the current Deputy Manager at Oak Cottage. 

Mandy’s day as a deputy manager is a mix of structured responsibilities and the unpredictability that comes with working in residential care. From coordinating rotas and managing staff to handling urgent issues like medication consents and liaising with social workers, her role requires a combination of strong organisational skills and adaptability. 

“Every day is different,” Mandy explains. “Some days, I’m deep in paperwork, updating social workers, and organising schedules. Other days, I’m working closely with the team to resolve challenges or ensure everything runs smoothly for the young people.” 

Mondays involve setting up appointments and ensuring the rota is balanced, while Thursdays and Fridays are dedicated to preparing Ofsted reports and providing updates to social workers. Mandy also emphasises the importance of staying accessible to staff for support and guidance throughout the week. 

Transitioning from Elderly to Children’s Care 

Mandy’s journey to Oak Cottage began after 26 years in elderly care, including a decade as a manager. Transitioning into children’s care was a significant adjustment for her. “It’s completely different,” she says. “Everything from the paperwork to the emotional dynamics is unique. I had to learn a lot—fast.” 

Initially, the role felt overwhelming. “I thought, ‘I’ll never be able to do this,’” Mandy recalls. However, with support from the team and a willingness to adapt, she has grown into her role. Now, she reflects on how much she has learned and how rewarding the experience has become. 

Support and Teamwork at Oak Cottage 

One of the aspects Mandy values most about her role is the strong support system at Oak Cottage. Whether she’s working with the registered manager or seeking guidance from the head office team, she never feels alone in facing challenges. 

“You’re not on your own here,” Mandy says. “There’s always someone to turn to—whether it’s a colleague, the management team, or the resources available online. It makes all the difference when things get tough.” 

Finding Fulfilment in Supporting Young People 

For Mandy, the most rewarding part of her role is the sense of accomplishment she feels after making a positive impact on the lives of the young people at Oak Cottage. “Coming from elderly care, I wasn’t feeling fulfilled anymore,” she explains. “But here, working with complex children, I feel like I’m making a real difference. It’s a deeply fulfilling experience.” 

She shares how learning about the backgrounds of the young people can be both heart-wrenching and motivating. “Sometimes, I look at these children and think, if I had a spare bedroom, I’d take them home with me,” she says. “But knowing they’re so well cared for here makes it easier to leave at the end of the day.” 

Qualities for Success as a Deputy Manager 

When asked about the qualities needed to succeed as a deputy manager, Mandy highlights patience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn. “You don’t need to have all the knowledge upfront,” she says. “Oak Cottage is a place where you’ll be trained to a high standard. They’ll support you, guide you, and help you grow into the role.” 

She also notes the importance of resilience and a strong work ethic. “It’s not always easy, but the rewards far outweigh the challenges.” 

A Growing Sense of Belonging 

After six months in the role, Mandy reflects on how far she has come. “It took me a while to settle in,” she admits. “But now, I feel like I’ve been here for years. I’ve started to really enjoy my job, and it’s all thanks to the supportive team and the incredible young people we care for.” 

For Mandy, being a deputy manager at Oak Cottage is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to contribute to something meaningful. Whether she’s mentoring staff, solving problems, or ensuring the young people have the care they need, she knows her work has a lasting impact. 

“Every day, I walk away feeling like I’ve done something important,” she says. “That’s what makes this role so special.” 

Mandy’s story reflects the heart and dedication required to be a deputy manager at Oak Cottage—a role that combines leadership, compassion, and a commitment to making a difference. 

Progress Celebrates Creativity with Christmas Card Challenge Winner Announcement

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Progress Fostering Service is delighted to announce the winner of this year’s Christmas Card Challenge, an annual tradition that highlights the creativity and festive spirit of the young people within our outstanding fostering service. After receiving stunning entries, the winning design was chosen for its originality, vibrant colours, and heartfelt holiday theme. 

The winner, a young person with a remarkable passion for art, impressed the judges with their imaginative design. Despite coming from a family with different cultural traditions, they embraced the festive challenge with enthusiasm, creating a piece that captures the magic of the season. 

Gemma Dugmore, Lead Support Worker, reflected on the initiative: 

“This tradition is truly special. The winning design is professionally printed and shared with families and stakeholders, but most importantly, it brings such pride to the young artist. We ensure they receive a framed copy as a keepsake to cherish for years to come.” 

Michelle Earp, Fostering Manager, shared her thoughts: 

“The Christmas Card Challenge is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of the creativity and spirit of our young people. Seeing their talent and enthusiasm shine reminds us of the incredible potential within our fostering service.” 

Tina Bhardwaj, Head of Children’s Services, added: 

“This challenge is a wonderful way to bring our fostering community together during the festive season. It celebrates the creativity of our young people and spreads joy through their artistry to everyone involved in our services.” 

The winning design will be professionally printed and distributed to foster families, panel members, Independent Reviewing Officers, and other stakeholders. A framed copy will also be presented to the young artist as a cherished keepsake. Claire Rogers, Managing Director of Progress, remarked:
“The Christmas Card Challenge beautifully showcases the imagination and creativity of the young people we support. It’s heartwarming to see their artwork bring joy to families, staff, and stakeholders during this special time of year.” 

Angeline Freer, Head of Corporate and Commercial, highlighted the initiative’s broader significance:
“This initiative reflects the heart of what Progress stands for—care, trust, respect and progress. The joy these cards bring to everyone involved highlights the incredible talent and spirit of our young people.” 

Bal Dhanoa MBE, Chief Executive Officer, echoed this sentiment: 

“The Christmas Card Challenge is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the young people we support. It’s inspiring to see how their artwork not only spreads festive cheer but also strengthens the sense of community within Progress.” 

The Fostering Team looks forward to continuing this cherished tradition and celebrating more creative milestones. As the festive season approaches, the team is also preparing for exciting activities, including pantomime outings for foster families in the West and East Midlands. 

 

 

Spreading Joy During the Holidays: Christmas at Oak Cottage 

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At Oak Cottage, the festive season is more than just a time of the year — it’s an opportunity to bring the magic of Christmas to life for the young people and staff alike. For Tony Marsden, a residential support worker who has spent the last decade at Oak Cottage, the holiday period is a special time filled with laughter, warmth, and cherished traditions. 

From the moment the Halloween decorations come down, Oak Cottage begins its transformation into a winter wonderland. Every corner of the home is infused with festive cheer, with colourful decorations and twinkling lights creating a magical atmosphere. “We’ve already got started on Christmas this year,” Tony shared. “The young people love seeing the house decorated—it brings so much joy.” 

Whether it’s Easter, football tournaments, or Halloween, Oak Cottage always reflects the time of year with themed decorations, but Christmas is particularly special. The big tree, festive ornaments, and creative window displays make the home feel even more welcoming. 

One of the highlights of the festive season is the annual Christmas party. Over the years, these gatherings have become a beloved tradition, with staff and young people coming together to celebrate. “We’ve had some lovely Christmas parties,” Tony recalled. “It’s about creating memories and ensuring the young people feel the excitement and joy of the season.” 

From games and music to festive food and small gifts, every effort is made to ensure the celebrations are meaningful and inclusive. For the young people, many of whom may not be with their families during the holidays, these events provide a sense of connection and belonging. 

A Home, Not Just a House 

For Tony, the most special part of Christmas at Oak Cottage is the way it feels like a family home. “It’s not just a residential house—it’s a home,” he said. “There’s laughter, warmth, and a sense of togetherness that makes this time of year so memorable.” 

The festive decorations, parties, and shared meals are all part of creating that homely environment. But it’s the dedication of the staff and the bonds they’ve built with the young people that truly make the holidays magical. 

The holiday season at Oak Cottage isn’t just about decorations and celebrations—it’s about giving. Whether it’s the thoughtful gestures of staff members like Tony or the shared joy of exchanging small gifts, the spirit of giving shines brightly. “We just want to make sure the young people know they’re cared for and valued,” Tony said. 

As the decorations go up and the excitement builds, the team at Oak Cottage is ready to make this Christmas another memorable one. For Tony and his colleagues, it’s not just about celebrating the season—it’s about creating moments of joy and comfort for the young people they support. 

Christmas at Oak Cottage is a testament to the power of care, community, and a little festive magic. It’s a reminder that with love and dedication, the spirit of the season can bring warmth and happiness to all. 

Oak Cottage: A Home Built on Care, Compassion, and Commitment

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Oak Cottage isn’t just a residential facility—it’s a home where young people with complex needs are supported by a dedicated team that fosters their growth and wellbeing. Through the perspectives of Tony, Kelly, and Mandy, we see how empathy, teamwork, and resilience create a nurturing environment that transforms lives. 

For Tony Marsden, a residential support worker who has spent over a decade at Oak Cottage, the home represents stability for the young people it serves. “I’ve been here longer than most of the young people,” Tony shares. “That consistency gives them someone familiar to rely on, especially in a world where change can feel overwhelming.” 

This stability is paired with a deep sense of empathy that guides the team’s approach to care. Kelly, a team leader, underscores this by saying, “It’s about understanding their experiences and seeing the world through their eyes. Empathy helps us connect with them and provide care that truly meets their needs.” 

Both Tony and Kelly recount moments where their empathy has made a lasting impact—whether it was supporting a young person through a difficult hospital stay or celebrating small victories during daily activities. “When you see them happy, it makes every effort worthwhile,” Kelly adds. 

A Supportive and Fulfilling Environment 

Mandy, the deputy manager at Oak Cottage, highlights the importance of the supportive culture within the home. Having transitioned from elderly care, Mandy found the experience challenging but incredibly rewarding. “Working with complex children is completely different, but it’s also deeply fulfilling,” she says. “You walk away at the end of the day knowing you’ve made a difference.” 

She attributes her growth to the strong support system in place. “You’re never on your own here,” Mandy explains. “Whether it’s the team or management, there’s always someone to guide you when challenges arise.” This support extends to every member of the team, fostering a collaborative atmosphere where everyone feels valued. 

The sense of fulfilment Mandy describes resonates with the rest of the team. Tony adds, “It’s a home, not a house. There’s laughter, warmth, and a sense of belonging that makes it so special.” 

The Day-to-Day: Challenges and Rewards 

Life at Oak Cottage is dynamic, with each day bringing new challenges and rewards. Tony describes busy mornings filled with school runs, medication routines, and personal care, while afternoons and evenings involve activities, appointments, and bedtime routines. Despite the fast pace, these routines are essential for providing structure and a sense of normalcy for the young people. 

For Mandy, a typical day involves balancing administrative tasks such as coordinating rotas, preparing reports, and managing staff. “It’s a mix of planning, problem-solving, and supporting the team,” she explains. Kelly notes that while the work can be demanding, it’s the small moments of connection that stand out. “It’s the progress, the laughter, and the bonds we build with the young people that make it all worthwhile.” 

A Place of Care and Growth 

Oak Cottage isn’t just a home for the young people—it’s also a place where staff grow and thrive. Mandy reflects on how much she has learned since joining. “They train you to be the best you can be, and the support is incredible,” she says. “It’s a place where you can truly develop your skills and make a difference.” 

For Tony, Oak Cottage has become more than a workplace—it’s a second home. He emphasises that the environment is as nurturing for the staff as it is for the residents. “It’s a home filled with care and compassion, not just for the young people, but for everyone who walks through the door.” 

A Shared Mission of Transformation 

What unites the team at Oak Cottage is a shared mission: to provide the highest quality care and create a supportive environment where young people can thrive. Whether it’s through empathy, teamwork, or the dedication of staff like Tony, Kelly, and Mandy, Oak Cottage stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. 

As Oak Cottage continues to grow and evolve, its commitment to the young residents remains unwavering. For both staff and residents, it is a place where lives are enriched, futures are shaped, and a sense of belonging is fostered. At Oak Cottage, care and compassion are more than values—they are the foundation of everything. 

Our Journey as Foster Carers: A Letter from Julie and David

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Fostering can be very hard work…but the heart and soul you put into it can truly transform lives.

Hello! We’re Julie and David, and we want to share our journey as foster carers with you. It’s been a path filled with challenges and rewards, and we’re excited to offer a glimpse into our lives as we strive to create a loving home for the boys in our care. Fostering has always been something we wanted to do. With a big house and a love for children, it felt like the perfect fit for us. David often says, “I’ve always wanted children,” and it was through his work in support that we realised just how much we could help.

Knowing there are children out there who need a nurturing environment, we felt compelled to step in and make a difference. We won’t sugarcoat it: fostering can be incredibly hard work. From the moment we took on this responsibility, we learned that patience and understanding are crucial. “It can be very hard work,” I (Julie) tell anyone considering fostering. “You have to cater to the individual needs of each child.” It’s not always easy, but the heart and soul you put into it can truly transform lives. David shares, “This has been my hardest job yet.” But he also adds, “It’s incredibly rewarding.” We’ve learned that every day is different, filled with new challenges and joys.

Meeting Their Unique Needs

Each boy in our care is unique, and we’ve tailored our approach to meet their individual needs. Our elder boy craves affection and reassurance, while the younger one is more independent but still needs guidance. “We just reassure him that everything’s okay,” David explains. Our goal is to create a safe environment where they can thrive, and that means being there for them whenever they need us. When the boys first came to us, they had so much to adjust to, and it wasn’t easy for them or for us. They had little understanding of structure, and things we take for granted—like having their own beds—were completely new to them. It was heartbreaking but also motivating to see how much they needed a stable, loving environment. Over time, we’ve seen incredible changes.

We’re especially proud of the small moments that show how far they’ve come. One of them now takes it upon himself to help around the house, like clearing up after meals without being asked.

One of the boys has become more confident and curious, often joining in on lessons we plan for the other and picking things up quickly. The other, while facing his own challenges, has made steady progress in school and is thriving with the encouragement we give him.

We’re especially proud of the small moments that show how far they’ve come. One of them now takes it upon himself to help around the house, like clearing up after meals without being asked. The other has responded so well to praise that he’s gained a real sense of pride in his accomplishments. It hasn’t been an easy road, but seeing their growth has made all the hard work worth it. For anyone considering fostering, we can honestly say that the effort you put in will lead to moments of pride and joy you’ll never forget. When conflicts arise, we’ve established what we call “discussions.” The boys will come to us and say, “Can we have a discussion?” This simple practice helps them express their feelings and work through their disagreements in a calm and constructive way.

Celebrating the Holidays Together

The festive season is something we cherish as a family. Decorating for Halloween and Christmas has become a beloved tradition in our home. I (Julie) have always loved going all out for these occasions. I remember the first Halloween we celebrated together; the boys were overwhelmed with excitement! We made our home friendly spooky, and they couldn’t believe the amount of candy they got to collect. Christmas is another big event for us. We create a joyful atmosphere filled with decorations and family fun, ensuring that the boys feel included and loved. These traditions have not only brought us closer together but have also provided the boys with memories that they will cherish.

We’ve gone from living a quieter life to one filled with joy and activity. Fostering has made me grow as a person.

Support from Progress

We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from Progress. From the moment we started our fostering journey, the resources and training available to us have been invaluable. Although we haven’t been able to attend every training session, we know there’s always someone to reach out to if we need guidance. One of the most rewarding experiences we’ve had was when the boys received awards for their achievements. It was a proud moment for us, and it reinforced the progress they’ve made since joining our family.

Fostering has also transformed us personally. We’ve gone from living a quieter life to one filled with joy and activity. David reflects, “Fostering has made me grow as a person. I’ve learned what it means to be a father figure.” The first time the younger one called him “Dad,” it brought tears to his eyes. “I never thought I would experience that,” he shares. We’ve discovered that our lives are now filled with laughter and love. Each day is an opportunity for growth, not just for the boys but for us as well.

Final Thoughts

Our journey as foster carers have been a rollercoaster of emotions, but we wouldn’t trade it for anything. We’re passionate about providing a safe and loving home for children who need it most. If you’re considering fostering or want to learn more, we encourage you to reach out. Together, we can make a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable children and create nurturing homes filled with love.

Thank you for reading about our journey. We hope our story inspires others to take that step and foster a child in need.

 

Michelle Earp Appointed as Fostering Manager at Progress Fostering Service

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Progress Children’s Service is delighted to announce the appointment of Michelle Earp as Fostering Manager of its outstanding Progress Fostering Service. Michelle brings nearly a decade of experience within Progress, where she has worked closely with both foster carers and children, helping to build a strong, supportive, and family-like environment that prioritises the well-being of young people. 

Michelle’s journey with Progress Fostering Service began in 2015 when she joined as a student during her final university placement. Since then, she has steadily advanced through Progress, transitioning from Supervising Social Worker to Practice Lead, and now to her current position as Fostering Manager. 

“I didn’t know much about fostering when I started, but it quickly became something I was passionate about,” Michelle said. “Helping children rebuild their lives and seeing them thrive in a safe, nurturing environment has been incredibly rewarding.” 

In her new role, Michelle aims to strengthen the organisation’s close-knit relationships with foster carers, expand the number of foster placements, and bring more people into fostering. She emphasises that fostering is about giving children the quality of life they deserve, something she is committed to ensuring through her leadership. 

“What makes Progress special is our family-like atmosphere,” Michelle said. “We hold lovely events for children and carers to celebrate their achievements, and we work together as a team to provide the best possible support for everyone involved.” 

Looking ahead, Michelle has ambitious plans for Progress, including expanding recruitment efforts, enhancing support systems for foster carers, and creating more opportunities for carers and children to connect through fun and engaging events. 

Michelle’s leadership is characterised by her hands-on approach. She regularly visits foster carers to offer support and plans to maintain open lines of communication with both new and experienced carers. Her goal is to ensure that Progress continues to provide the highest level of care for its young people, while fostering an inclusive and supportive community for its carers. 

“Just watch this space,” Michelle said. “I can’t wait to implement the positive changes we have planned for Progress.” 

For more information on Progress Fostering Service or to inquire about fostering opportunities, please visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering or call 01902 561066. 

About Progress Fostering Service: Progress Fostering Service is dedicated to providing high-quality care and support. Through a network of dedicated foster carers, the organisation offers safe and nurturing homes where children can thrive and reach their full potential. Progress is committed to working closely with carers to provide ongoing training, support, and recognition for their vital role in the community.