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Category: Fostering

What Is the Hardest Part of Fostering?

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Fostering can be one of the most rewarding things you ever do, but let’s be honest, it’s not always easy. When people ask, “What’s the hardest part of fostering?”, there’s no single answer. Every carer, child, and situation is different. But there are a few common challenges that many foster carers experience, especially in those early days. 

Letting go of expectations 

It’s natural to imagine what fostering will be like, how the child will settle in, how you’ll bond, and what your day-to-day life might look like. But children in care often come from very complex backgrounds. They may not trust adults, and they may not respond to kindness in the way you’d expect. Building trust can take time, and it can be frustrating or even heartbreaking when you feel like you’re not getting through. 

The hardest part? Sticking with it when things aren’t going the way you hoped. But also the most powerful part, because when that trust does come, it means everything. 

Saying goodbye 

Even in short-term fostering, deep bonds can form. You might look after a child for just a few weeks, or for months, even years. And when the time comes for them to return home or move on, it can feel like a piece of your heart is going with them. 

It’s part of the job, but it never gets easy. What helps is knowing that you’ve played a part in that young person’s journey, giving them safety, stability, and love when they needed it most. 

Managing behaviour shaped by trauma 

Some children come into foster care after experiencing trauma, neglect, or abuse. That trauma doesn’t vanish when they walk through your front door. It often shows up in how they behave, from anxiety and withdrawal to anger or outbursts. 

It’s not personal. It’s pain. And understanding that can help you respond with empathy rather than frustration. But it’s still emotionally demanding. That’s why ongoing training, wraparound support, and having someone on the end of the phone 24/7, like Progress offers, really matters. 

Navigating the unknown 

Foster carers often have to adapt quickly. Emergency placements can come with very little notice or information. Plans can change overnight. Meetings, school issues, court updates, there’s a lot going on behind the scenes. 

Having a strong support network, both professionally and personally, can make all the difference. At Progress, our carers never go it alone. There’s always someone to guide, support, and step in when things get tough. 

Final thoughts 

The hardest part of fostering isn’t the behaviour or the meetings or even the goodbyes. It’s the emotional resilience it asks of you. But it’s also what makes fostering so powerful. 

You open your heart and your home to a child in need. You give them a fresh start. And while it might be challenging at times, it’s also life-changing, for them and for you. 

If you’re thinking about fostering and want an honest conversation about what it’s really like, our team at Progress is here to talk. No pressure, no judgement, just real answers from people who understand. 

Call us today on 01902 561066 or visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering to start your fostering journey. 

What Do You Mean by Fostering? 

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

When people talk about fostering, they usually mean something very simple but powerful. It is about opening your home to care for a child or young person who, for one reason or another, cannot live with their own family. 

But fostering is much more than just offering a bed and meals. It is about giving stability, patience, and kindness at a time when a young person really needs it. 

So, what exactly is fostering? 

Fostering is a way of providing care for children and young people who cannot live with their birth families. This might be because of neglect, illness, family breakdown or other difficult circumstances. Sometimes the placement is short-term while things get sorted out. Other times, it can continue for months or even years. 

Foster carers don’t just offer a place to stay. They provide emotional support, routine, encouragement, and a sense of safety. In many ways, a foster family is just like any other. It is where a child can feel seen, heard, and cared for. 

Is fostering the same as adoption? 

No, they are different. With adoption, the adoptive parents take on full legal responsibility for the child for life. In fostering, the local authority remains legally responsible, and the aim is often to return the child to their birth family if that becomes possible. 

This means some foster placements may last just a few days, while others continue until the child turns 18 and is ready for independence. 

Are there different types of fostering? 

Yes. The kind of fostering depends on the needs of each individual child. Some of the main types include: 

  • Short-term fostering – temporary care while a longer-term plan is being made. 
  • Long-term fostering – ongoing care for a child who cannot return to their birth family. 
  • Emergency fostering – immediate care when a child needs a safe place at short notice. 
  • Ongoing short breaks – planned, regular breaks (such as one weekend a month or a Saturday every other week) often for children with additional needs, giving their families vital breathing space to continue providing care. 
  • Respite care – short-term cover when a foster carer or family is temporarily unavailable, such as during holidays or hospital stays. Unlike ongoing short breaks, respite is usually one-off or occasional. 
  • Specialist fostering – for children with additional needs such as disabilities, mental health challenges, or complex behaviours. This also includes Parent and Child fostering, where carers support a young parent and their baby together in the same placement. 

At Progress, we support carers to find the type of fostering that suits their life, home, and experience. You are never alone on the journey. 

Who can foster? 

Foster carers come from all walks of life. You do not need to be married, own your home, or have children of your own. What matters most is that you have a spare bedroom and a genuine desire to make a difference in a child’s life. 

Whether you are working, retired, single, or in a couple, fostering could be an option. And even if you do not have experience with children, we can offer training and support to help you build your confidence and skills. 

Why fostering matters 

For the children and young people who need it, fostering can be life-changing. It offers safety, hope, and a fresh start. For foster carers, it is a chance to be part of something meaningful and to play a role in a child’s journey forward. 

If you have ever thought about fostering, even just once, we would love to speak with you. No pressure and no commitment — just a friendly conversation with someone who understands what fostering really means. 

 

Can I foster and work full-time?

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Can I foster and work full-time? 

One of the most common concerns people have when thinking about fostering is how it fits around work. Many people ask, “Can I foster and still keep my full-time job?” The answer is yes, it is possible, but it depends on a few key factors.  

It depends on the type of fostering 

Firstly, inquire whether to consider whether your employer is a ‘Fostering Friendly’ organisation. Progress is a Fostering Friendly organisation. 

Fostering is not one-size-fits-all. Some placements require more time and flexibility than others. For example: 

  • Short breaks or respite care can be more flexible and may fit around a working pattern, especially if the care is offered at weekends or during school holidays. 
  • Short-term or long-term fostering often involves school runs, meetings with professionals, and being available when children are unwell or have appointments. This can be difficult to manage alongside a full-time job without flexibility or support. 
  • Specialist fostering, such as caring for a child with additional needs, usually requires at least one carer to be available full-time.
     

If you work full-time but are considering fostering, it is important to think about whether you can adjust your working hours, work remotely, or share responsibilities with a partner. 

What if I work part-time or shifts? 

Many people who foster work part-time or have jobs with flexible hours. Some foster carers work evenings or weekends, or have self-employed roles that allow them to set their own schedule. Others share caring responsibilities with a partner, so between them they can meet the child’s needs. 

If you work shifts, we would need to look at your availability and whether you would be able to attend key meetings, respond to emergencies, and offer the level of care the child needs. 

At Progress, we talk this through with every applicant and help you explore the types of fostering that would suit your lifestyle. 

What support is available? 

Fostering is a big commitment, especially if you are juggling other responsibilities. That is why Progress offers a strong package of support, including: 

  • A dedicated social worker to support and supervise your practice 
  • Training that fits around your availability 
  • 24/7 out-of-hours support 
  • Up to 21 nights of respite care per year 
  • We provide access to cashbacks and benefits through the Westfields Health and Rewards  
  • Access to Progress services to support your placement 

You are never alone, and we will work with you to make sure fostering fits into your life in a way that is manageable and rewarding. 

What if I want to reduce my hours later? 

Some people start fostering while working full-time and gradually reduce their hours as they settle into their new role. Others use the income from fostering, along with support from Progress, to make a long-term career change. 

Remember, foster carers are self-employed, and payments vary depending on the type of placement and the needs of the child. Specialist care usually comes with a higher level of support and financial reward. 

Final thoughts 

You can foster and work full-time, but it is important to be realistic about your time and energy. The needs of the child come first, and every placement is different. If you are thinking about fostering, the best place to start is with an open conversation. 

At Progress, we will help you look at your current work and life situation and advise you on the best path forward. You do not have to have all the answers — that is what we are here for. Call us today on 01902 561066 or visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering to start your fostering journey. 

Progress Fostering Service Celebrates Pride Month with Love, Colour, and a Special Banner!

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Proud, Loud, and Ready for Pride! ️‍

Happy Pride Month!

We’re kicking off this month of love, inclusion, and acceptance with something truly special. The amazing young people at Progress Fostering Service came together to create a vibrant, heartfelt banner, and we will be proudly carrying it at Wolverhampton Pride this Saturday, 7th June!

The creativity and care poured into this banner show just how much our young people understand and support the values of Pride. Their voices matter, and through this banner, they’re sending a powerful message: everyone deserves to be seen, accepted, and celebrated for who they are.

We’re excited to be participating in the Wolverhampton Pride Parade alongside the community and allies from all walks of life. If you’re attending, keep an eye out for our team and our beautiful handmade banner—it’s hard to miss and even harder not to smile at!

At Progress, we believe in creating a world where every person feels safe, valued, and free to express themselves. Pride Month is a reminder of how far we’ve come, and how much more we can do together.

Join us in celebrating this special month, and let us know if you will be at Wolverhampton Pride!

From Care to Carer: Tom’s Journey Supporting Children with SEND Through Fostering

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

From balancing spreadsheets to balancing emotional needs, Tom’s career change was less about numbers and more about nurturing. 

Tom’s journey into fostering didn’t start with a formal qualification or a long-term plan. It started with something much simpler — a desire to give back. Having been in care himself, Tom always knew what it meant to have someone just be there, not to fix everything, but to show up consistently. 

“I didn’t realise I could use my background for positivity,” he says. “But volunteering made me realise how much of a difference just being present can make.” 

Tom’s early career was in banking, but a chance opportunity to volunteer with the Children’s Society changed everything. What began as a monthly outing with a boy in foster care who kept running away, turned into a calling. 

“I was there through five different placements in two years. I couldn’t fix it, but I could be there.” 

That experience led him into residential care, where he spent years working with children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including learning difficulties, autism, and complex health needs. It wasn’t always easy — there were difficult days, even allegations that were later resolved — but his passion for the work never wavered. 

Eventually, Tom made the leap into fostering through Progress Fostering Service. His background in residential care became a powerful asset in his new role. His experience working with young people with SEND helped him build trust and structure into the lives of children who desperately needed both. 

Tom highlights the value of experience over qualifications. 

“It doesn’t matter how many books you read. Every child is different, even if they share the same diagnosis. What matters is honesty, being present, and adapting to what they need.” 

Tom currently fosters a boy who began in a different foster home, then went to a residential setting, and finally transitioned to live with him. That carefully planned transition made a world of difference. They started with meetings, progressed to overnight stays, and built a genuine connection before the full move. 

“He matches me. He loves football, we support the same team. Having that early connection was important, because while I might be anxious, he was going into the unknown.” 

Now approaching his 16th birthday, the boy is thriving. He’s made academic progress, and is navigating teenage life with newfound stability. 

Tom’s focus remains on supporting him through this crucial period. 

“To look past that would be unfair. My priority should be him. I want him to feel safe, have something to look forward to, and know he’s not just being dropped at 18.” 

To those considering fostering, especially those with experience in residential care or nursing, Tom offers heartfelt encouragement: 

“You’ll share in the success. Watching someone grow, overcome challenges, and succeed — it’s priceless. You already know how to work with professionals, talk to families, and build relationships. You can do this.” 

What sets Progress apart, Tom says, is its supportive, personal approach. 

“It doesn’t feel like a huge agency where you’re just a number. Here, my name is known. I’m always supported.” 

Tom believes fostering is something more people should consider. “If you’ve got a spare bedroom and want to make a difference, you can. SEND children need specialist carers — and Progress helps you become that person.” 

 

Thinking of fostering a child with SEND? Visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering to learn more.

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 Fostering Service Celebrates Successful Annual Fostering Panel Day

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Progress Fostering Service today held its much-anticipated Annual Fostering Panel Day, a significant occasion for reflection, collaboration, and forward planning. The event brought together panel members, supervising social workers, and other stakeholders, including Tina Bhardwaj, Head of Children’s Services, and Michelle Earp, the recently appointed Fostering Manager.

The day was designed to strengthen the fostering process, ensuring compliance with legislation while enhancing the experience for all involved. Tina Bhardwaj highlighted the importance of this annual event as an opportunity to reset and align goals for the year ahead. “We met with all the panel members for an annual training event to review panel processes and identify improvements. It was a chance to, among others, reflect on what we’ve done well, and remind ourselves of the fostering panel’s purpose,” she said. Tina also emphasised the value of the professional expertise and diverse backgrounds of panel members, which bring significant depth to the fostering process​.

Michelle Earp shared her insights into the outcomes of the day, describing the feedback from attendees as both “amazing and constructive.” She appreciated the opportunity for panel members to meet new supervising social workers, fostering collaboration and mutual understanding. “It’s been refreshing to catch up with panel members and hear their feedback. It’s clear what they want, and this gives us actionable steps to make the process smoother,” she remarked.

The event also featured professional development sessions, including reviews of key legislation and discussions about the roles and responsibilities of panel members. These sessions reinforced the importance of adhering to governance standards while inspiring new ideas for improving the fostering experience for both foster carers and children.

Attendees enjoyed a welcoming atmosphere, bolstered by opportunities to connect over thoughtfully prepared meals and informal discussions. This balance of structured training and casual engagement reflected the service’s commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive community.

As Progress looks to the future, the feedback and insights gathered from this year’s Fostering Panel Day will shape ongoing improvements, ensuring the highest standards of care and support for children and their fostering families.

Progress Fostering Service is committed to providing safe, nurturing environments for children and young people. By prioritising quality, collaboration, and professional excellence, the service continues to make a meaningful difference to the fostering community.

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.