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Progress Children’s Services Shine in Ofsted Inspections

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Progress Children’s Services is celebrating outstanding achievements following the first full inspections of two of its children’s homes, The Bridge and Hilton House, by Ofsted. Both homes have received high commendations for their commitment to the exceptional care and support for children with special needs. 

The Bridge earned an “outstanding” rating for its leadership and management. The report praised Registered Manager Nicole for her ambitious vision and effective advocacy, fostering a collaborative and enthusiastic care environment. Children at The Bridge are making noteworthy progress, with their experiences rated as “good.” Ofsted highlighted the home’s swift and well-planned care, which makes children feel valued from their arrival. Staff dedication, such as arranging school uniforms and understanding complex health needs, was also noted. The Bridge’s commitment to continuous staff training and development ensures high-quality care and a positive, evolving environment. 

Hilton House also received positive feedback, with Ofsted rating the overall experiences and progress of the children as “good.” The unannounced inspection highlighted the home’s well-organised and dignified care, quick settling-in processes, and staff attentiveness to each child’s unique needs. Strong, trusting relationships between staff and children were commended, along with innovative approaches like using social stories to reduce anxiety around health topics. Safety and safeguarding were top priorities, with staff demonstrating a solid understanding and prompt action on concerns. 

Bal Dhanoa, Founder and CEO of Progress, expressed immense pride in the feedback, attributing the success to the team’s unwavering commitment to high-quality care. Claire Rogers, Managing Director, and Tina Bhardwaj, Head of Children’s Services, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of a nurturing and supportive environment and the comprehensive approach to care planning. Angeline Freer, Head of Corporate and Commercial Services highlighted the strong leadership and collaborative spirit that contributed to these achievements. 

Both The Bridge and Hilton House have demonstrated significant growth and excellence, setting a positive example in children’s services. The homes’ dedication to continuous improvement and staff development, along with a focus on individual needs and family involvement, ensures that children at Progress Children’s Services receive the best possible care and support. 

Beyond the workplace: How Skills Acquired at Progress Transformed Tim’s Family Life

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Tim is a residential support worker at Nightingale House, a key service under Progress. His journey is a remarkable story of professional growth and personal transformation. Starting with minimal experience, Tim has not only become a vital member of the Nightingale House team but has also found that the skills and training he received have profoundly impacted his family life, especially in his role as a father. 

In 2022, Tim arrived in the UK from Zimbabwe, embarking on a new chapter in his life. His initial days at Nightingale House were challenging, but with the support of his colleagues and the management team, Tim found his footing. “I didn’t really have any expectations because I just came to this country,” he recalls. The journey was tough, but the encouragement and assistance from his team and the manager made all the difference. 

The training Tim received at Nightingale House was exceptional, equipping him with skills that extended beyond the workplace. This training, tailored specifically to the needs of the residents at Nightingale House, included specialised techniques that are not commonly offered by other organisations. “The training that I’ve got… has really impacted me positively,” Tim explains. This unique and comprehensive training approach is a hallmark of Progress, setting it apart from standard training programmes in the sector. 

One of the most significant impacts of Tim’s job has been on his parenting. As a father of three, Tim discovered that the skills he learned at work enhanced his ability to support and understand his children. The training opened his eyes to new ways of uniquely interacting with and specifically supporting the young people at Progress – in addition to his kids, fostering better communication and understanding. “I had this lens that I looked at the world in regard to my kids… Now I can support my kids in ways that I never thought they needed support,” Tim shares. 

His improved relationship with his teenage son is a testament to this transformation. Tim’s new approach, which involves asking his children about their thoughts and feelings, has led to more open and meaningful conversations. “My relationship with [my son] is way better than it was before,” he notes. 

Daily Responsibilities and Work-Life Balance 

Tim’s typical day at Nightingale House involves a variety of responsibilities, from supporting residents with their daily routines to administering medication and personal care. Tim has managed to achieve a healthy work-life balance, thanks to the supportive management at Nightingale House. The flexibility offered by his manager allowed Tim to tailor his work schedule to meet his family’s needs, demonstrating the Progress’ commitment to its employees’ well-being. 

Empathy and patience are central to Tim’s approach at work and at home. The culture at Nightingale House encourages staff to put themselves in the residents’ shoes, a mindset that Tim has adopted in his parenting. “If you’re working with someone or supporting someone, you need to put yourself in their shoes,” he emphasises. This philosophy has helped Tim become more patient and understanding, both with the residents he supports and with his own children. 

Tim’s experience at Nightingale House highlights the profound impact that supportive management and specialised training can have on both professional and personal development. His story is a testament to the importance of empathy, patience, and continuous learning. Through his journey, Tim has not only grown as a professional but also as a father, demonstrating the far-reaching benefits of the skills and training provided by Progress. 

If Tim’s journey resonates with you, consider exploring similar career opportunities at Progress. Visit www.progresscare.co.uk/jobs to learn more about how you can contribute to creating enriching experiences for children who need it the most. 

I’m single. Can I foster? I’m in a relationship. Can I foster?

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Fostering as a Single Person or in a Relationship 

Fostering a young person is one of the most rewarding and impactful decisions one can make. However, potential Foster Carers often have questions about their eligibility based on their personal circumstances. At Progress’ outstanding fostering service, we receive numerous inquiries about whether being single or in a relationship affects their ability to foster. 

Can Single Individuals Foster? 

One common question we hear is: “I am a single person, does this prevent me from fostering?” The simple answer is no. Being a single individual does not disqualify you from becoming a foster carer. As long as you have a loving and caring home environment, your relationship status is irrelevant. The core requirement is the ability to provide a nurturing and stable space for a child in need. Fostering is about offering love, support, and a safe haven for a child, and these qualities are not exclusive to couples. 

Fostering While in a Relationship 

Another frequent question is: “I am in a relationship; can I foster?” The answer is also affirmative. If you are in a relationship and both partners are on board with the decision to foster, you can certainly pursue fostering together. It is essential that both partners are committed to the fostering process, as fostering will involve a joint assessment. This collaborative approach means that each partner’s strengths and qualities will contribute to the fostering task. The key is mutual agreement and support, ensuring that the fostering environment is cohesive and supportive for the young person. 

Qualities That Matter 

Whether single or in a relationship, prospective foster carers need to demonstrate a set of core qualities: patience, empathy, resilience, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact in a child’s life. At Progress, we are here to support individuals who are ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of fostering, regardless of their personal circumstances. 

Fostering is a path open to both single individuals and couples. What truly matters is the ability to provide a loving, stable, and supportive environment. If you have the heart and home to welcome a child in need, fostering could be a fulfilling journey for you, whether you embark on it alone or with a partner. 

Are you considering fostering? Remember that your unique situation could be the perfect match for a child seeking a safe and nurturing place to call home. The first step is reaching out and starting the conversation with our dedicated team at Progress’ outstanding fostering service. Together, we can make a difference, one child at a time. 

Start your fostering journey with Progress. Visit www.progresscare.co.uk/fostering or call: 01902 561066 

 

From Personal Experience to Professional Passion: Laura Joins Progress

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

I want to give the other children in care the same experiences we gave to Reuben because they deserve the same as every other child.

Laura recently joined Progress Children’s Services as a residential support worker, bringing with her a wealth of personal experience and an inspiring dedication to the well-being of children with complex needs. During her induction, Laura shared her story, motivations, and hopes for her new role, offering a glimpse into the heart of someone deeply committed to making a difference. 

“This is my first role in support work,” Laura began, though she is no stranger to childcare, having previously worked in a day nursery. Her most profound experience, however, comes from caring for her own children, particularly her youngest son, Reuben, who had complex needs. “He was my inspiration. He was what made me a better person,” Laura reflected. 

Reuben’s condition required 24/7 care, including specialised feeding, deep suction, and oxygen support. Despite the challenges, Laura and her family were determined to ensure Reuben enjoyed life to the fullest. “We travelled, we packed the car up to the brim, and just went on holidays to give him what every other child gets. Yes, he did not walk on the beach, but he got on the beach because we got him on the beach,” she recounted with pride. 

The experience of caring for Reuben, who passed away in January, has profoundly shaped Laura’s approach to her work at Progress. “I want to give the other children in care the same experiences we gave to Reuben because they deserve the same as every other child,” she emphasised. Her determination to provide these children with enriching life experiences, regardless of their abilities, is a testament to her unwavering commitment. 

Laura’s personal journey has not only equipped her with practical skills but also instilled a deep empathy and understanding for the children she now supports. “Even if they can’t talk, they can enjoy normal life experiences. Reuben lost his smile for the last year, but he communicated with his eyes. He let us know he was happy or sad or in pain in other ways,” she explained. 

Looking ahead, Laura is eager to grow professionally within Progress. “I’d like to work my way up and get that experience in a professional way rather than just a personal way,” she said. 

Laura’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that personal experience and passion can have in the field of residential support work. For those who share her dedication and empathy, Progress offers a fulfilling career path where they can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with complex needs. 

If Laura’s journey resonates with you, consider exploring similar career opportunities at Progress. Visit www.progresscare.co.uk/jobs to learn more about how you can contribute to creating enriching experiences for children who need it the most. 

I have pets. Can I foster?

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Pets and fostering: Enhancing the fostering household experience 

When considering fostering, many prospective foster carers wonder how their pets might affect their eligibility. At Progress’ outstanding fostering service, we often receive questions about whether having pets is a barrier to fostering. Our supervising social worker provides reassuring insights into this common concern. 

One key question we encounter is: “I have a pet; does this prevent me from fostering?” The answer is generally no, having a pet does not disqualify you from becoming a foster carer. As long as your pets are not on the dangerous dogs’ list or pose a risk to a child’s safety, they should not hinder your fostering application. Ensuring that your pets are well-behaved and do not have any issues that could endanger a child is crucial. 

In fact, pets can bring many positive qualities to a fostering household. Pets often provide companionship, emotional support, and a sense of stability for children in foster care. They can help children learn about responsibility, empathy, and the joy of caring for another living being. The presence of a pet can also create a warm and welcoming environment, helping foster children feel more at home. 

While pets can enhance the fostering experience, it’s essential to ensure the safety and compatibility of the pets with the foster children. During the assessment process, our team will evaluate how your pets interact with children and whether they contribute positively to the household. This assessment helps us ensure that the young persons and the pets will coexist harmoniously and safely. 

The Role of Pets in Fostering 

Pets can play a significant role in the lives of foster children, offering comfort and a sense of normalcy. The bond between a child and a pet can be incredibly therapeutic, aiding in the child’s emotional and psychological development. Many foster families find that pets help create a more nurturing and supportive environment, which is essential for the well-being of the children in their care. 

In essence, having pets does not prevent you from fostering; in many cases, it can enhance the fostering experience. As long as your pets are safe and well-behaved, they can contribute positively to your household and the lives of foster children. At Progress, we believe in the power of a loving and supportive home, whether it includes pets or not. 

If you have a pet and are considering fostering, don’t let this be a barrier. Reach out to our team to discuss your specific situation, and together, we can determine the best path forward. Visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering or call: 01902 561066 

Fostering with pets can be a rewarding and enriching experience, benefiting both the children and the entire household. 

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.