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Category: Professional Experiences

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.

Building Connections: Insights from Steven Russell at the Progress Annual Conference 2024

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At the Progress Annual Conference 2024, Steven Russell delivered a compelling speech that resonated deeply with the audience, emphasising the vital importance of building connections with young people. Through personal anecdotes, powerful media references, and insightful reflections, he outlined the challenges and responsibilities that come with fostering and supporting children in care. 

The Challenge of Connection 

Russell began by acknowledging the numerous barriers that professionals face when trying to connect with the young people they serve. “It’s easy to make a connection,” he stated, “but it really isn’t.” He highlighted a common refrain he hears: the lack of time. Many professionals express frustration over their busy schedules, believing that more time would allow for deeper connections. However, Russell challenged this notion, suggesting that the quality of interactions often outweighs the quantity of time spent. 

To illustrate this point, he shared a poignant clip from the television show “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” where the character Will Smith confronts feelings of abandonment and the emotional impact of absent parental figures. This scene poignantly captures the “empty spaces” in the lives of young people—gaps filled with longing for connection and support. 

The Power of Presence 

A key takeaway from Russell’s speech was the idea that genuine connection does not always require grand gestures or profound words. Instead, it thrives on simple presence and availability. “What makes something better is connection,” he stated. Russell encouraged caregivers and professionals to be physically and emotionally present for the children in their care. “They don’t need you to make things right by telling them,” he emphasised. “Just being with them is enough.” 

Russell introduced five essential elements that foster these connections: patience, presence, curiosity, creativity, and authenticity. He explained that these traits can be practised daily, encouraging professionals to be aware of their interactions and to strive for improvement in their approach. “You don’t have to get it right all the time,” he reassured the audience. “Just show up as you are.” 

Reflecting on Personal Experiences 

 

Drawing from his own journey through the care system, Russell shared his belief that the emotional needs of young people are often overlooked. He urged the audience to recognise that behaviours such as anger or withdrawal might be attempts to communicate deeper feelings of hurt or insecurity. He stressed the importance of understanding each child’s unique perspective and the need for consistent, patient support. 

Using a powerful metaphor, he compared interactions with young people to counting letters on a page—everyone sees something different. This analogy served as a reminder that each child has their own story and perspective, which might not always align with the observations of the adults around them. 

The Role of Community 

Russell highlighted the collective responsibility of the community in supporting children in care. He reminded attendees that every interaction counts, no matter how small. “Every single person has an effect,” he asserted. From the head teacher to the lollipop lady, every role in a child’s life is significant. By fostering a collaborative environment where everyone’s voice is valued, professionals can create a more inclusive and supportive community for young people. 

Embracing Creativity and Authenticity 

In his closing remarks, Russell encouraged attendees to embrace creativity in their interactions. He shared examples of how imaginative approaches can open doors to meaningful communication and connection. By allowing themselves to be authentic and curious, caregivers can foster environments where young people feel seen and valued. 

Russell’s inspiring message served as a powerful reminder of the importance of connection in the lives of children and young people in care. As professionals and caregivers, we have the opportunity to make a significant impact through our presence, patience, and genuine engagement. By prioritising these connections, we can help fill the empty spaces in the lives of those we serve, creating a brighter future for our youth. 

As we reflect on Steven Russell’s insights, let us remember that every moment spent with a young person is an opportunity to build trust, foster growth, and inspire hope. 

Kathryn’s Next Chapter at Progress: A New Beginning at Wellcroft House

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Kathryn’s move from Oak Cottage to Wellcroft House marks a heartwarming chapter in her career with Progress, one filled with new connections, personal growth, and renewed purpose. After working night shifts at Oak Cottage for a year, Kathryn recognised an opportunity to bring her caring spirit closer to home, as Wellcroft House is only a short walk away. What started as a practical move soon became much more, as she found herself welcomed with open arms into a vibrant, supportive community. 

Having previously worked in education, Kathryn brought a unique background and passion for helping others into her role at Progress. Transitioning into a residential care setting allowed her to build meaningful relationships with young adults, something she cherished from her time at Oak Cottage. “Working with young people again reminded me of why I entered this field in the first place,” she reflects. Her experience at Oak Cottage helped her develop skills in support and care that she now brings to Wellcroft with fresh enthusiasm. 

The shift to daytime work at Wellcroft has been an uplifting experience for Kathryn. She describes her days as “truly fulfilling” and has felt supported by each team member, who have gone above and beyond to ensure her transition was smooth. From the moment she arrived, her new colleagues showed kindness, inviting her to ask questions and offering help whenever needed. “Everyone has been incredible – it’s as if I’ve been here for years,” she says with a smile. Sabrina, one of her supervisors, has been especially inspiring. Kathryn shares, “Sabrina is such a joy to work for, and her positive energy makes each day brighter.” 

Kathryn and Progress Long Service Award Winner, Shipa. Read about Shipa here.

Her role at Wellcroft has given Kathryn the chance to bring a personal touch to her work, making every interaction with the residents meaningful. For instance, she learned early on about the little routines that mean so much, like Nikita’s favourite straw in the morning. It’s these small gestures that bring a homely feel to the day-to-day, making Wellcroft a place of comfort and belonging for both residents and staff. 

Kathryn also treasures the team spirit at Wellcroft. Celebrating occasions together has strengthened her bond with colleagues and residents alike. Recently, she joined in festivities for Black History Month, contributing her love for baking by making a special cake. As the holiday season approaches, she’s excited to start decorating for Christmas and bringing a bit of cheer to Wellcroft’s halls. Kathryn smiles when talking about these celebrations, noting how each event brings the team closer, adding warmth to the Wellcroft environment. 

As she reflects on her journey with Progress in 2024, Kathryn feels a deep sense of gratitude. Her time at Oak Cottage provided valuable experience, but Wellcroft House has become a true home where she feels part of a caring family. Looking to 2025, she is eager to deepen her connections with residents and colleagues, using her creativity and talents to make each day a little brighter. Kathryn’s story at Wellcroft House is more than a job change; it’s a beautiful reminder of the power of community, compassion, and the special place that Progress offers to its staff and residents alike. 

For Kathryn, Wellcroft is a place to thrive, learn, and bring her best self to work each day, surrounded by people who share her dedication to making a difference. 

Celebrating Shipa: Progress Long Service Award Winner

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At the recent Progress Annual Conference, Shipa was honoured with a Long Service Award, marking her ten remarkable years with us. During a conversation at Wellcroft House, Shipa opened up about her journey, her unwavering commitment, and the impact of her role in her life and the lives of those she supports. 

Shipa’s journey with Progress began with community work and holiday clubs for children, which ignited her passion for helping young people. This saw her grow in experience and take on roles across multiple homes, each with its own unique challenges. Wellcroft House has become her second home, and although she works part-time, Shipa’s impact and presence are deeply felt by her colleagues and the young people. 

Reflecting on her role, Shipa describes it as a “motherly” one, where she balances professional boundaries with genuine care. “It’s about ensuring their daily needs are met and enhancing their life experiences,” she shared. For her, this includes everything from grocery shopping and menu planning to organising fun activities like bowling or music festivals that allow the young people to experience life to the fullest. Recently, she was thrilled to see one of the young people embark on a volunteering opportunity at a charity shop, a step towards greater independence and confidence. 

Over the years, Shipa has gained a deep understanding of each young person’s unique needs and preferences. She spoke with warmth about their individual personalities, from dietary preferences to how each person expresses their likes and dislikes. “You get to know them over time,” she said, describing the joy of building those connections and adapting care routines to honour each individual’s personality. 

Shipa also highlighted how the team’s strong dynamics contribute to the stability of the home. “There’s a lot of consistency now, even within the managerial department,” she noted. This consistency, she believes, has created a supportive environment where team members respect each other’s differences, communicate openly, and work together to overcome daily challenges. Her team’s camaraderie shines through in the small things, from sharing jokes to handling day-to-day issues with grace and maturity. 

For Shipa, working at Wellcroft House isn’t just a job. “It’s a part of my life,” she shared, adding that her part-time role allows her to balance her career with family life while remaining fully committed to the young people she cares for. Her dedication, humility, and ability to find joy in the small moments have made her an invaluable member of the Progress team. Her Long Service Award sits proudly on her mantelpiece at home, a reminder of her decade of service and the countless lives she’s touched along the way. 

Congratulations, Shipa, on this incredible milestone! Thank you for your compassion, resilience, and for embodying the heart of Progress every day. We look forward to many more years of shared purpose and continued impact. 

Black History Month at Wellcroft House

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

When I joined Wellcroft House as a student social worker in September, I knew Black History Month was just around the corner, and I wanted to create something truly meaningful. Together with Denise, one of our dedicated staff members, we brainstormed ways to make this celebration impactful for everyone. We felt that Black History Month was more than just a single event it was an opportunity to recognise, honour, and reflect on the rich history and cultural contributions of Black individuals. This led us to a plan: a major celebration that would bring everyone together while creating ongoing opportunities throughout October for learning, connection, and celebration. 

Weekly Friday Celebrations 

To give our community the time and space to appreciate different aspects of Black history, we decided to host activities every Friday throughout October, building up to a big event at the end of the month. 

Friday, 4th October
We kicked off with a Caribbean feast prepared by Denise, who made jerk chicken and dumplings. Residents and staff enjoyed the delicious meal, with Caribbean music and reggae filling the home, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. We ended the evening with The Princess and the Frog, Disney’s first film featuring a Black princess, a movie everyone enjoyed. 

Friday, 11th October
The next Friday, we hosted an arts and crafts session, creating decorations and artwork together. Mucha, another staff member, prepared Sadza, a traditional African dish, which was a big hit. I noticed more staff members becoming curious about Black history, and to foster an open dialogue, I encouraged them to ask questions and engage in discussions with the team. 

Friday, 18th October
For our third Friday, we focused on music and dance, playing music from Black communities and dancing together in a lively, shared experience. This event built excitement for our upcoming main celebration. Wellcroft House was soon decorated with banners, flags, and artwork, bringing vibrant energy into our space. 

Main Event: Saturday, 26th October 

The highlight of our celebrations was a community-wide event on Saturday, 26th October, where we brought together residents, staff, family members, and friends from across Progress Care. Wellcroft House was beautifully adorned with vibrant decorations, an inspirational board filled with profiles of influential Black figures, and fact sheets displayed throughout. 

The day’s festivities included decorated cupcakes made by staff members’ families, and a stunning celebration cake crafted by Kath, one of our team members. Denise prepared a variety of Caribbean dishes, and the atmosphere was full of warmth and joy. We enjoyed live entertainment from a staff member’s niece, who played the keyboard and sang, adding a personal touch to the event. Outside, I ran an arts and crafts station where children painted shakers, adding to the rhythm of our celebration. 

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with residents, families, and staff from across Progress expressing their appreciation for the celebration and the chance to learn and reflect. 

Continuing the Celebration on Teams 

Throughout October, I shared stories of inspirational Black figures on our Teams platform to keep the momentum going. We highlighted individuals like Misan Harriman, the Nigerian-born British photographer and social activist known for his impactful imagery, and Mary Seacole, a Jamaican nurse celebrated for her compassionate work during the Crimean War. 

As the celebrations unfolded, more staff members showed genuine interest in Black history. Many wanted to understand more about the origins and significance of Black History Month, which led to open conversations and a safe space for learning. I continued sharing insights on Teams, addressing any questions staff members had and ensuring that everyone felt comfortable engaging with the themes of the month. 

Looking Ahead 

With my placement at Wellcroft House ending in December, I am hopeful that the commitment to Black History Month will continue in future Octobers. This month has brought our home and staff together, fostering understanding, joy, and reflection. It’s been incredible to see how these celebrations have enriched our environment, and I am confident that Wellcroft House will carry on this tradition, honouring the rich heritage and contributions of Black individuals for years to come. 

Anti-Bullying Week 2024 – Choose Respect

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Today marks the beginning of the Anti-Bullying Week which reminds us of the power of kindness, respect, and acceptance of others. This is a week dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of bullying and promoting safe, inclusive environments for everyone.

It’s a time to highlight the importance of respect, kindness, and inclusivity. This year’s theme, Choose Respect, emphasises that we all have the power to shape an environment where everyone feels valued, accepted, and safe.

Why Choose Respect?

Choosing respect is a simple yet powerful approach to addressing and preventing bullying. By showing respect to others—whether colleagues, young people, or community members—we’re helping create a culture where everyone feels seen, heard, and appreciated.

Respect is about valuing each person’s individuality, embracing their unique qualities, and understanding that our differences make us stronger. This week serves as a reminder that small acts of kindness, patience, and understanding can profoundly impact those around us.

The Reality of Bullying

Bullying remains a challenging issue for many people. Statistics show that a significant number of children and adults experience bullying, which can have lasting effects on mental health, self-esteem, and overall well-being. At Progress, we’re committed to making a positive impact by supporting safe, inclusive spaces. By encouraging our staff, partners, and community to choose respect, we’re actively contributing to a world where everyone feels empowered to be themselves without fear of judgment.

Here are a few ways we embody the principles of Anti-Bullying Week:

  • Setting an Example: Every interaction is an opportunity to model respect and kindness. By treating everyone with empathy, we demonstrate the behavior we hope to inspire in others.
  • Creating Safe Spaces: Our staff are trained and equipped to create supportive environments where individuals feel safe and valued, free from the threat of bullying or judgment.
  • Encouraging Open Dialogue: We believe in open, honest conversations around issues of bullying, respect, and mental health. By addressing these topics, we can tackle bullying directly and build stronger, more empathetic communities.

Let’s Make a Difference Together

This Anti-Bullying Week let’s all commit to choosing respect in our interactions. Whether it’s a kind word, a helping hand, or standing up against unkind behaviour, each of us has the power to create positive change. If you have any suggestions or ideas on how we can continue to support inclusive, respectful spaces, please share them—we’d love to hear from you.

Thank you for all the incredible work you do. Together, we can make a difference and promote a culture of care, trust, respect, and progress.

From Challenges to Champions: Progress’ Twin Siblings Win Local Art Competition

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

The best part of the job is seeing how they’ve progressed because it’s all about progression. 

In a heartwarming success story, twin siblings at Progress Children’s Services recently achieved a remarkable milestone by winning a local art competition. The twins, both diagnosed with global developmental delay and autism, joined Progress Children’s Services, earlier this year and the supportive environment and dedicated care they are receiving helped them flourish, culminating in their award-winning artwork. Their victory not only highlights their personal growth but also showcases the power of nurturing care and resilience. 

At Progress, every child, regardless of their uniqueness, is given the right support and opportunities to thrive and feel at home. This ethos was demonstrated through the journey of the siblings. 

Their transformation has been remarkable. Their award-winning creation (an artwork) that reflects their newfound comfort and joy has been an emotional experience for everyone at the home. As Harjeet, a team leader at Progress Children’s Services noted, “The best part of the job is seeing how they’ve progressed because it’s all about progression.” 

This journey of resilience culminated in the opportunity for the twins to participate in a local competition facilitated by their school. The staff and the children worked closely together, creating an art submission that expressed the twins’ progress and creativity. The artwork represented their emotional and developmental journey, capturing the essence of their time at Progress. While the competition was new for the children, their confidence and artistic expression spoke volumes about the supportive environment they had come to know. 

Harjeet described how important it was to ensure the children felt supported, not only in the competition but in their daily lives. “They’ve come so far, and it’s overwhelming to see their progress,” she remarked. “We never expected them to win, but their participation and excitement alone was a victory for all of us.” 

The event itself became a moment of joy for both the twins and the entire team at the home. Witnessing the children’s smiles and seeing them enjoy the recognition for their hard work was a proud moment. This experience has boosted the twins’ confidence and inspired the team to continue supporting and nurturing every child in their care. 

“We remain committed to creating a safe and an encouraging environment for all young residents. Future activities and competitions are being planned to further inspire creativity and personal development. Whether through art, education, or day-to-day care, the focus remains on ensuring that each child at the home and across Progress continues to thrive,” said Registered Manager, Josh. 

“As the twins’ achievements are celebrated and their journey is reflected upon, it is clear that the core mission lies in fostering progress—no matter how small the steps. This experience has reaffirmed Progress’ commitment to providing not just a home, but a place where every child can grow, learn, and feel valued,” said Tina Bhardwaj, Head of Children’s Services at Progress. 

“Progress is continuously finding new ways to support the individual needs of each person we serve. With upcoming projects and creative initiatives, more milestones are expected to be reached by the young residents. Progress remains a community where every person is given the opportunity to flourish,” said Claire Rogers, Managing Director, Progress. 

A “Day” in the Life of a Night Shift Support Worker at Progress

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Working the night shift as a support worker at Progress is more than just a job; it’s a commitment to ensuring the well-being and stability of those who depend on the services provided.  

As the sun sets and most people wind down their day, night shift support workers at Progress gear up for their crucial responsibilities. The shift begins with a comprehensive handover from the day staff, where critical information about the children and ongoing tasks is exchanged. This transition is vital for maintaining continuity of care and addressing any immediate needs. 

“Receiving a detailed handover sets the tone for the night,” shared one of the night shift workers at Progress. “It ensures we are prepared and aware of any specific requirements or issues that might arise.” 

Once the handover is complete, the night shift team dives into their routine duties. These tasks include monitoring the young people, performing household chores, and ensuring a calm and safe environment throughout the night. A typical night might involve helping children with their evening routines, preparing them for bed, and being vigilant to respond to any needs that may arise. 

“We go about the house duties like monitoring,” explained a staff member. “In the morning, we support the kids with their routines before they transition to school.” 

This structured yet adaptable routine ensures that children receive consistent care and attention, promoting a sense of security and stability in their lives. 

Building Relationships 

One of the most rewarding aspects of the job is building meaningful relationships with the children. The quiet of the night often provides opportunities for one-on-one interactions that are less feasible during the busier daytime hours. These interactions help foster trust and rapport, which are crucial for effective support. 

“It’s nice to be there for the kids when they need someone to talk to or just to be a comforting presence,” shared a night shift worker. “These moments make the night shifts worthwhile.” 

Effective communication between day and night staff is crucial for seamless service delivery. The night shift team emphasised the importance of thorough handovers and mutual understanding between shifts. Miscommunications can lead to disruptions, so fostering a culture of clear and open communication is key. 

“If you have the capability to do something, just make the environment nice for the next person coming in,” advised a night shift support worker at Progress. This mentality helps maintain a positive and collaborative work environment. 

A Rewarding Career 

Despite the challenges, working the night shift at Progress is deeply rewarding. The opportunity to make a difference in young peoples’ lives, the camaraderie among staff, and the unique experiences of night work create a fulfilling career path. 

If you are passionate about making a difference and seeking a role that offers both challenges and rewards, consider becoming a night shift support worker at Progress. Visit progresscare.co.uk/jobs to explore current career opportunities and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in support work. Join us in providing essential care and support to those who need it most, even in the quiet hours of the night.