01902 561066
Contact Us
Progress Care

Category: Professional Experiences

Transforming Lives and Rewarding Careers: A Deep Dive into Progress’ Adult Respite Service

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Empowering lives and building careers. Take a look inside the unique world of Progress’ adult respite service in Wolverhampton. 

At Progress’ unique adult respite service, Amanda and Dawn, the Manager and Deputy Manager respectively, shed light on the exceptional work they do — the distinctive features, challenges, and heartwarming moments that make the service a shining star, a beacon of hope and an indispensable part of Progress.  

The adult respite service offers support to individuals with diverse needs and challenges. Amanda, the manager, proudly emphasises its uniqueness and vastness, “We work with many local authorities, spreading our services widely.”  

The service caters to individuals ranging from those working towards independence in adulthood to those needing specialised care due to their complex needs. Dawn explains, “We look at each person independently, developing plans for each person, treating them as an individual rather than just a respite service user.”  

What sets this service apart is its commitment to viewing the young adults as individuals, each with unique needs. Amanda stresses, “We’re all about making sure that, in a nutshell, the young person is living their life with the adaptations, equipment, staff skill set, and guidance they need.”  

The team prides itself on looking beyond the standard respite care model. Amanda explains, “Our skill set is unique because we specialise. We provide training tailored to individual needs, ensuring that no one is left out or faces barriers to support.”  

A day in the life  

The managers paint a vivid picture of the service’s fast-paced nature. Dawn notes, “No two days are the same. We can have emergency respite, urgent care meetings, or changes that alter our plans instantly.” The unpredictability challenges staff to stay flexible and think on their feet.  

Despite the challenges, Amanda and Dawn express their enjoyment of the service’s dynamic nature. Amanda adds, “It’s the unknown that excites me. I like the challenge, putting my skills to the test, and learning more. Every day is different, and that’s what I enjoy.”  

Success in this unique service demands a specific set of qualities. Dawn lists them: “Flexibility, adaptability, initiative, care, passion, and being energetic. You need to be creative and patient, adjusting to each individual’s pace and needs.”  

Motivation amidst challenges  

When asked about what keeps them motivated, both managers highlight the difference they make in individuals’ lives. Amanda expresses, “We’re here to make that difference and help them progress. That’s what puts a smile on my face going forward.” Dawn echoes this sentiment, emphasising the impact on young people’s lives.  

Reflecting on memorable moments, Amanda and Dawn share their joy in being part of a growing team and witnessing positive changes every day. 

Phil Mcdonald, Progress’ Head of Adult Services, adds that what is rewarding are the little moments “when we help someone to be more independent, manage their emotions in more positive way or taking someone on an activity that they’ve never done before”. 

Excitement looms on the horizon as the team looks forward to further growth and improvement. Amanda acknowledges, “We’ve got a lot of exciting things to come.” Dawn shares the sentiment, expressing enthusiasm for being part of ongoing positive changes.  

A fulfilling career path and a vibrant work environment   

They described working at the service as an immersive experience filled with challenges, rewards, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Amanda and Dawn, with their extensive backgrounds, provide insight into the unique atmosphere that sets this service apart.  

 Amanda describes the service as a fast-paced, ever-changing environment where adaptability and initiative are crucial. She expresses her love for the unknown, highlighting the service’s unpredictability as a driving force that keeps her engaged. 

Dawn adds the days are marked by diversity, where no two days look the same. The service’s fluidity demands staff to be on their toes, ready to navigate through emergencies and urgent situations, making every day unique. 

Who thrives there?  

Success in this dynamic setting requires a specific set of qualities. Dawn points out that staff members need to be flexible, adaptable, and able to use their initiative. Being caring, passionate, and energetic is essential. Amanda underscores the importance of a genuine desire to make a difference. “We look for someone who wants to join the service because they want to care and make a difference, not just for the sake of the money,” she notes.  

The ideal candidate is someone who can balance the fast-paced nature of the service, from running around in high-energy situations to slowing down when needed, all while maintaining patience and creativity. The ability to treat everyone as unique is paramount.  

Career, not job  

One of the remarkable aspects of working at Progress is the opportunity for career progression. Amanda, for instance, has traversed various roles within Progress, showcasing the potential for growth and development.  

Amanda, who joined in 2015, shares her journey from a flexible support worker to managing different homes within Progress. She said the service has allowed her to express her abilities in unconventional ways, showcasing the Progress’ adaptability and commitment to recognising and rewarding individual and collective strengths.  

Dawn, relatively newer (18 months) to the respite service, attests to the sense of achievement she derives from being a deputy manager. They agree that Progress’ supportive atmosphere and a good rapport with the management team contribute to a positive work experience. The prospect of being part of ongoing exciting developments adds to the motivation. 

Working at the adult respite service is not just a job but an immersive experience where individuals with a passion for care and a penchant for adaptability can thrive. The service’s commitment to recognising and nurturing talent ensures that employees can embark on a fulfilling career path. 

There are career opportunities for experienced Support Workers at our residential home for Young Adults with Learning Disabilities, in Penn, Wolverhampton.
Shifts Available: Earlies and Lates OR Long Days – Full Time Hours

Contact us to book your space.
Send your CV to recruitment@progresscare.co.uk
Or call 01902 561 066 

A Decade of Dedication: Phil Reflects on 10 Years with Progress

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

In a remarkable journey that began as a six-month contract in 2013, Phil, a seasoned professional in the industry, finds himself celebrating a decade with Progress, which he describes as a “cracking little company” with values that have been the bedrock of his successful career.

“I came to Progress for a six-month contract back in 2013, thinking it would be an interim appointment,” Phil said. “But obviously, I like Progress, and Progress obviously likes me. I’ve ended up staying 10 years.”

Describing why he has been able to enjoy working at Progress this long, Phil reflects: “I’ve always said that, from my perspective, Progress is a cracking little company. It’s got good values, which have seen me through my career. And I’ve enjoyed working here.”

One key factor that has kept Phil dedicated to Progress is the exemplary leadership provided by Claire Rogers, Progress’ Managing Director. “I think the leadership from Claire is excellent,” Phil noted. “And that’s evidenced in the progress that the company is actually making.”

Phil received his ten-year long service award from Claire at the recently held Progress Staff Conference 2023

Under Claire’s guidance, Phil noted that Progress has achieved significant milestones, demonstrating its commitment to excellence and innovation. Phil pointed out, “One of the elements that stands out for me is the reputation that Progress has developed for itself in terms of being a very safe provider for children and young people.” This acknowledgment underscores the Progress’ focus on creating a secure environment for the most vulnerable members of society.

Moreover, Phil highlighted Progress’s dedication to improving outcomes for children and young people, emphasising Progress’ mission-centred approach. “Being centred around looking at the outcomes for children and people,” he added, “is something that has been a driving force for me throughout my time here.”

As Phil reflects on his 10 years with Progress, it is evident that his journey has been marked by a deep appreciation for the company’s values, leadership, and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of children and young people. Progress, in turn, has benefited from Phil’s dedication and expertise, creating a partnership that has stood the test of time.

Embracing The Uncertainties: A Day in The Life of Cosmos

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Our priority is to make sure they enjoy their stay with us.

The Making of a Deputy Manager

 

In the heart of Progress Children’s Services, a pivotal figure shapes the daily experiences of the children at one of the homes. Cosmos has spent a year in this demanding role, steering through challenges and celebrating victories. In an exclusive interview, Cosmos provides a candid glimpse into his responsibilities, the daily routine, and the profound impact he seeks to make. 

As Cosmos commutes home after a long day, the mood in his car is often upbeat and celebratory. Reflecting on his post-work rituals, he shares, “Once you finish, you just don’t give yourself time to process a lot of things. It’s that one-hour drive where I have some conversation with my family. When I get home, I have my own time to cook, watch TV, and unwind.” 

While he now has a full grasp of the tasks expected of him as a Deputy Manager, Cosmos did not start in care.

Originally from the beautiful and peaceful city of Kumasi in Ghana, Cosmos studied pharmacology at the University of Wolverhampton. His journey, however, took an unexpected turn that set the stage for his current role at Progress. A stint as a waiter in a restaurant marked his post-university phase, a period driven by the need to pay the bills.

“When you finish university, reality hits,” Cosmos recalls. It was during this phase that he found himself working as an autism tutor, a role that would set the stage for his impactful career at Progress.

Embracing the Unpredictability

 

Every day is different, and that’s what makes it interesting.

Describing an incident at a hospital, Cosmos reflects on the unpredictability of the job. “It was fairly complex, but amidst the challenges, we found ourselves laughing at some of the things that were happening. The excitement in the fact that every day is different is what brings me back every single day.” 

In his role as Deputy Manager, Cosmos is not confined to a fixed routine. “You can’t really have a daily routine in this home,” he explains. “Some Mondays, I’ll come in with a plan, but circumstances like sick calls or staff shortages can change everything. Flexibility is crucial.” 

Cosmos emphasizes the importance of ensuring the well-being of both the staff and the children. “Our priority is to make sure they enjoy their stay with us. If we have staff shortages, as managers, we step in to ensure the young people are supported and engaged in activities.” 

The excitement in the fact that every day is different—that’s what brings me back every single day. Always happy to be here with the people I work with.

Proudest moment and future ambitions

 

Cosmos and his colleague and old friend, Steve, having chat
Cosmos and Steve

As he reflects on the impact of his work, Cosmos shares a proud moment. “Seeing the progress of the young people is the biggest achievement. One of them is now in full-time education, which seemed impossible initially. It feels like our efforts are making a difference.”

Looking to the future, Cosmos envisions becoming a registered manager but acknowledges the timing must be right. “It’s a career path you can build for yourself. I’ve seen the progression of people who’ve achieved what they set out to do. It’s about putting in the effort.”

Despite the challenges, Cosmos finds joy in his work. “The excitement in the fact that every day is different—that’s what brings me back every single day. Always happy to be here with the people I work with.”

As Cosmos steps into his second year at Progress Children’s Services, his focus remains on achieving a full house of young people, upgrading Ofsted ratings, and ensuring the right people and support are in place. Reflecting on his journey thus far, Cosmos acknowledges the supportive environment at the home and the opportunities for growth.

Danielle, Cosmos and Steve: A Harmonious Partnership

 

Dani, the Registered Manager for the home, sheds light on the integral role played by Cosmos in creating a supportive and homely atmosphere within the home.

“Cosmos is very calm and very collected in stressful situations,” Dani notes. She highlights Cosmos’s ability to assess situations calmly and thoughtfully before taking action—a crucial skill in dealing with the unpredictable nature of the young people under their care.

Cosmos’s upbeat demeanour radiates positivity throughout the staff and children, contributing to the creation of a homely atmosphere. Dani praises his happy-go-lucky nature, stating, “He’s always happy. You know, he’s a very happy guy, and that transmits to the staff and the children, creating quite a homely atmosphere just from his own nature.”

Having worked together for a significant period, Dani recognizes the complementary nature of their traits. She sees their partnership as a balancing act, with Cosmos’s experience in handling challenging children being a valuable asset. “His experience really role models down to the newer staff,” Dani acknowledges. 

When the opportunity for the Deputy Manager position arose, Dani didn’t hesitate to recommend Cosmos for the role. “I felt that because of our past and the partnership that we’ve got, that he would have just settled into that role very well,” she explains. Dani appreciates Cosmos’s willingness to embrace challenging situations, a quality that aligns with their shared ethos of reaching out to children who face difficulties finding a home. 

Despite the demanding nature of their work, Dani emphasizes the importance of assisting children who may not have other options. “We don’t just want to help the children that have options, but the ones that don’t sometimes,” she says. In this aspect, Dani sees a natural alignment between herself and Cosmos, as well as with Steve, another key team member. 

In their collaboration, Dani and Cosmos bounce ideas and energies off each other seamlessly, creating a harmonious working relationship. “I think we just bounce off each other quite well,” Dani concludes, emphasizing the strength of their partnership in navigating the challenges and pursuing their shared mission of providing a nurturing environment for the children at the home.

There is a similar career opportunity for a Deputy Manager. Find the details here. For other available positions at Progress, click here.

Why I foster: Joanna

Posted on by Angeline Westley

In a new series of interviews we will be asking Progress foster carers why they choose to foster and why despite some challenges, fostering can bring a lot of joy.

Here’s Joanna’s story.

“You don’t help someone to get a pat on the back. My husband and I foster because we love it. Seeing a child smile because of the support we have given them makes us so happy.

For twenty-two years I was a primary school teacher, including a period where I was a foster mother in nurseries. Back in the 1980s I was also a foster parent but trying to devote time to three children of my own and a foster child was difficult. I’ve always felt that every child needs an equal amount of love and care and one should not be neglected over the other.

I learnt a lot working at the school. One of the biggest things being a child’s behaviour is not always down to them being unreasonable, it may be because they are not understanding their current situation or behaviour expectations. You can’t take things personally. I found that if I was able to nurture a child’s skills and behaviours things could change in a positive way.

Once I retired the idea of fostering kept coming back to me. Wherever I turned I saw fostering. Facebook, the internet, TV, it was everywhere! This was not a coincidence. I debated the pros with my husband, and we decided to go ahead and look for fostering agencies.

I first heard of Progress when I saw them at a summer carnival in Birmingham where I found the staff were friendly and open. I got to learn more about fostering and the different types of foster care we could provide. I went on to speak to another four agencies but found Progress the most professional. So, we chose them as our fostering agency.

The process of becoming a foster carer is rigorous. You have to be completely transparent as a couple and a family. My husband and I have been married for over forty years, so we took everything in our stride.

Once we were confirmed as foster carers, we decided that we wanted to provide short breaks. This type of fostering gives families or a parent without a support network a chance to recharge their batteries, especially when a child has a disability. Looking after my own grandchildren five days a week, meant we could make a realistic contribution to fostering of a weekend once a month without compromising our families or personal well-being. There is currently a huge demand for respite foster placements.

We ended up fostering two brothers. The younger boy was able to communicate but his older brother couldn’t. Of course, we were nervous when we began, however, you soon build a rapport with the children. Learning the fostering guidelines has helped as well as the support from Progress. We have taken part in a lot of training which has been essential for our development as foster carers.

The brothers are very active. We now take them swimming every month, go to parks, museums and nature trails – we have had some really great times.

We’ve also worked on how we could communicate better with the older child by restricting the amount of time he spends on his tablet (while in our care). We hoped he could join in conversations and use a visual timetable to communicate. I read stories to the boys and we play games like “I spy” in the car. One day I was reading the brothers a book and the little one was joining in. Suddenly the non-verbal older brother shouted – BOO! I nearly fell off my chair!

The children are now able to increase their vocabulary and interact with others. It’s wonderful when they tap me and try to say something or count.

Sometimes fostering can be hard. I make sure there’s enough time for me and my husband. We go for walks, spend time with my children and grandchildren and go to church too – we’re very close.

To anyone thinking of fostering I’d say having the ability to change a child’s future for the better is one of the most rewarding things you can do. Every child deserves a safe and secure family environment”.

If this story resonates with you, perhaps you could be the next carer to make a positive difference in children’s lives. Get in touch to find out more about being a foster carer.

 

Progress turns 21!

Posted on by Angeline Westley

As we begin our year long festivities celebrating 21 years of supporting children and young people, Progress Chief Executive Bal Dhanoa and Chief Financial Officer Raj Dhanoa have a special message for our staff.

“Thank you all for your continued support, commitment, and dedication to Progress.

  • We are proud of our journey so far, we continue to make happy memories for our young people, so when they reach ‘adulthood’ they can reflect back and think of their time at Progress and what that means for them
  • We are proud to give stability to those needing long term care
  • We are proud to provide a range of amazing support services and care options to so many in our communities through our Hub teams
  • We are proud to expand our residential care portfolio across the Midlands – each home have their own unique offerings
  • We are proud of our foster carers, some whom have been with us right from the start of our journey and all those joining us now and, in the future

Reflecting on the time when this journey started for me, it was just a vision of what can be achieved. We started from humble beginnings and I am so blessed and proud of how the family of Progress has grown over the 21 years. Our journey has been incredible with many ripples and mountains to climb along the way. I am so proud to have such amazing people, who have been part of this journey and truly make a difference and uphold strong values as we continue to make memories.

During this journey we have had so many wonderful staff that have worked with us and developed their career paths – some moving on to achieve their own journeys and even retuning back to us. There are many of our staff who have worked with us for several years and developed their skills and moved on to senior positions within Progress. To all of you our heartfelt thank you.

There are those angels in our journey who have truly understood my vision, my passion, and have put up with my madness, in good and bad times, and have enabled my deepest desire to provide the best that we can to all vulnerable young people in our care. They remain constant, focused, always protecting us, and have been there from the start. A special thank you to our MD Claire. Without you this journey would not have been possible.

As we continue to prosper we hope and pray that we can continue to serve and make a difference in people’s lives, and continue to improve career opportunities for you all as you go through this wonderful journey with us. Always look to the future and learn from the past!

Happy 21st birthday to Progress as we all look forward to celebrating many more in years to come”.

Bal & Raj.

Keep visiting Progresscare.co.uk for further 21st celebration updates. #progress21

Working in Care Stories: Deana

Posted on by Angeline Westley
My name is Deana, and I am a residential manager for Progress. I have been working with children and young people in residential care for approximately 13 years. 
I have seen a lot of young people come and go, but one young person will remain in my thoughts and heart for a long time.  

I remember going to visit David, at school, in 2014. He was taking part in a school play rehearsal where the song ‘Running Bear’ was being played. I was introduced, by name, to the class and over he came to me with a feather in his hand, placed it in my hair and then stroked my cheek and chin saying, ‘nice beard’.  

I just knew from that moment on I could work with David and make a difference in his life.  

The care package started off with help in the community, then onto shared care over the weekends and then with him finally coming into residential care full time. 

Don’t get me wrong things were not always easy and routines and schedules didn’t always go to plan. We had our up’s, which there were many and we also had our down’s. 

Days out with the family were very difficult and so did not happen often. I remember taking David to the theatre to see his first live musical, Mamma Mia. He absolutely loved it. David was standing up in the audience singing and dancing. I remember crying that day! He then went on to see many theatre productions. He used to love going to the cinema, shopping, bowling, and eating out. I remember taking him to a local restaurant and his favourite pudding was chocolate fudge cake. No matter how many dinners David had there was always room for pudding. 

David was introduced to the local church, where he would attend the monthly coffee mornings. He would go and have his breakfast, buy cakes, and raffle tickets and always managed to win. He won the hearts of all those that attended. I would sometimes meet him down there on my days off and he would sit with my baby holding him and once asked for a photo of them together. Did I get too close I can hear you saying, probably yes, I did, but then I would not be doing my job if I didn’t. 

He made such progression with us at Progress and grew up into a lovely young man. David made me proud to want to take him out. He was a funny, caring and an entertaining young man when he was having a good day. Like I said, things didn’t always go to plan and he would display behaviours that challenged but this was part of the progression for him. 

David turned 18 in 2020 and moved into an adult living provision which would help to further his progression. He will be missed by a lot of staff as well as myself. David made some terrific memories not only for himself but the staff that worked with him.  Especially those who took him out on activities, on holidays or those who cared for him in the house, he was something special. 

I always said when I first came into the care sector, if I can help just one person then my job is done. The only problem is you never stop at just one, its infectious to continue helping the young people that come into our homes. 

I have always said that for me, working with children and young people in residential care is not a job it’s a vocation. 

Inspired by Deana’s experiences? Why not apply for a role at Progress today!

Progress recognised with award for Covid work

Posted on by Angeline Westley

Progress was named winner of Outstanding Support During Covid-19 category at the 2020 Best Business Awards.

We have been recognised for our approach to the nationwide lockdown caused by Covid-19 in March 2020.

As lockdown came into force, Progress prioritised the care of those that relied on us for critical support. We assigned drivers, offering a ring-and-ride service to our workforce to eliminate the use of public transport and minimise the exposure risks. Progress also offered a triage service to families, to deal with any crisis that might arise and made available some flats as isolation units (and offered that resource to local authority partners).

Progress has been able to keep all residents and staff safe; continue to provide essential services to families and challenge our creativity. Our community team started digital support sessions with young people, engaging in online training on anything from e-safety to managing anxiety, providing families with support and young people with consistency. Progress staff and young people have engaged with the measures we put in place and coped exceptionally well through what has been an uncertain and anxious time, adapting and responding to the constantly shifting sands.

The BBAs pride themselves on having a large panel of independent expert judges who select winners according to strict criteria for each category and sector.

Commenting on Progress, the winner in the Outstanding Support During Covid-19 category, the chairman of the judges said: “After seeing the devastation Coronavirus was causing in Italy earlier in 2020, Progress was quick to lock down earlier than other care homes to protect its vulnerable residents both young and old. Non-essential visitors were asked not to attend care homes, virtual forms of communication were set up so residents could keep in touch with loved ones, and community staff were reassigned to other roles such as drivers, helping staff to avoid public transport. Congratulations to Progress for having the foresight to act quickly and keep people safe.”

Upon receiving the Award, Claire Rogers, Managing Director of Progress said:

“We always pride ourselves on providing high quality care and support, but this has been even more important throughout the Pandemic, with the additional challenges this presented. Keeping our core values at the heart of our decision making has been our strength, providing a fixed point from which to navigate. It is wonderful to have been recognised for the outstanding support we have provided during this difficult time.”

The Best Business Awards are one of the UK’s highest profile awards. Due to its high profile, the Awards attract a wide range of entries from across all sectors from large international PLCs and public sector organisations to dynamic and innovative SMEs.

Working in Care Stories: Marie

Posted on by Angeline Westley
Marie is a support worker at Progress’ children’s residential home, Henley Lodge in Coventry.
What led her to apply and work for Progress? This is her story.

I have been working for Progress since March 2020 – my first job in 15 years.

“15 years?” you say? Let me take you back to the beginning of my story.

In 2004 I gave birth to my first child, my little boy. However, things did not go to plan, and there were complications. My son was born with Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy, and by the time he was seven months old, he had to have a peg fitted to enable him to take food. He was also doubly incontinent, so I became his full-time carer.

Sadly, in April 2019, my son passed away.

I struggled with the loss of my son as well as losing my identity. All I’d known for the past 15 years had gone with him, but I knew I still had the desire to help children and young people.

So, when I saw the Support Worker’s job at Progress advertised, I wondered if this was something I could do. I had no care qualifications, but I did have 15 years of experience looking after my son.

Despite the uncertainty, I attended a Progress recruitment day. This gave me the chance to learn more about the organisation and the role. I applied, and after an interview, I was offered a job as a support worker.

At first, it was scary, but as the weeks went on, I felt relaxed in what I was doing.

Looking back at things, having this new job has helped me with my grief. I am busy doing what I know and love – supporting children and putting a smile on their faces.

Working for Progress has been the best thing I have done.

Are you inspired by Marie’s story? A career in care awaits you. Start your journey by clicking here to apply for a job at Progress.

5 minutes with…Darrell  

Posted on by Angeline Westley

The Support Worker at Nightingale House, on working in mental health, training, and why team work is important.

I used to work for Derby Mental Health Trust as a health care assistant. My job was to support people who had different mental health issues. I learned very quickly that at the beginning of each shift, I had to have an open mind and adapt to all manner of situations.

I used to work for a major car manufacturer. It was neither enjoyable nor rewarding. You get to a point in life where you feel you’re just going through the motions, and I wanted more out of my career.

After a three-year break, I was back working in care.  I was one of the first members of staff recruited at Nightingale House. The first day was quite daunting, but I was equally excited to be starting this journey.

I took part in a lot of training. A two-week block got me up to date with all the mandatory training needed to do the job – this was before even the first resident arrived.

I love working with young adults. When you build a rapport and trust with another person, you can achieve great things. It really makes my job worth doing when I can see a young adult smile in joy.

Working at Nightingale House is like having a second family. I love those little moments when we cook for the residents, and everybody is in the kitchen playing music and enjoying themselves. All the staff work hard to maintain this type of atmosphere.

Keeping up with all the regulations is hard work. Policy and procedures change all the time, so you must make sure your work is above board. These are communicated to us, so that helps.

Everyone here feels valued as a team. We see the results of the work we do with young adults quite quickly. I know of friends in other jobs who are far removed from their work’s impact, which can make things monotonous. At Progress, you do not wait to see the payoff.

You can bring a lot of life experience to Progress. Communication skills are the foundation of care. When you care for a loved one, you obviously have empathy. So these transferable skills can be used.

If you want to make difference in the lives of others, visit our recruitment page and apply for a role at Progress today.

Sybil’s tips on becoming a support worker

Posted on by Angeline Westley

Sybil is an experienced Team Leader at Progress. Having worked closely with staff at Portland house she is well placed to tell us what is needed in becoming a support worker.

A Progress support worker gives children and young adults (with complex disabilities) practical and emotional support to live happy and fulfilling lives. The job is challenging but also one of the most rewarding things you can do.

As a team leader, I am often involved in the interview process of hiring new support workers. While specific qualifications are needed to work at Progress, I look for people who have the character to cope with the unique needs of the people we support.

To help you get a role at Progress, here are few tips on the type of person who would make a great Progress support worker.

Empathy: When you put yourself in the shoes of those in your care you will have a greater appreciation of the support they need. Always be understanding and sensitive to the needs of other people.

Respect: We all work together to help those in our care. From sharing ideas to encouraging each other, treat your colleagues as you wish to be treated.

Patience: In stressful situations, remain calm and patient. Anger and irritability will affect how you do your job and more importantly impact negatively on the person in your care.

I want to apply, what do I do?

Visit progresscare.co.uk/recruitment today and start your journey in helping others.