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Category: Progress Fostering

Fostering Love, One Challenge at a Time

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Fostering isn’t merely about providing a roof over a child’s head. It’s about creating a nurturing, loving environment where a child can grow, heal, and thrive. For Sally Tinkler, fostering is a journey of love, patience, and resilience—one that has profoundly shaped her life and that of her family. 

Sally and her husband are foster carers with Progress, accessing round-the-clock support and community-driven approach. They currently care for a young lady who is nearly 16 years old and has complex health needs. “She’s totally dependent on us for every aspect of her life,” Sally said. Yet, the relationship is far from one-sided. “She brings a lot to us as well as what we give to her,” she explained. The experience has been deeply fulfilling, teaching them about compassion and adaptability in ways they never expected. 

When asked why she chose Progress, Sally’s answer was simple: support. “One of the main reasons is the amount of support—24 hours a day, every day of the year. There’s always someone to seek advice and support from,” she said. The sense of community within Progress has been invaluable, helping to alleviate the isolation that sometimes accompanies fostering. Regular support meetings with other carers provide a space for sharing experiences and learning from one another. 

Fostering is not without its challenges, and Sally is candid about the skills required. “Patience, the willingness to learn, and the ability to adapt your life,” she listed. She emphasised the importance of understanding that children in the care system come with complex histories. “You’ve got to be very open-minded to learning different therapeutic techniques for dealing with them. It’s not the same as having your own children,” she said. 

Sally’s journey began long before she welcomed the young lady into her home. For five years, she and her husband offered respite care, gaining experience and building confidence. But nothing could fully prepare them for the realities of long-term fostering. Their young lady has significant health challenges—she is non-verbal and relies on a feeding tube. “The training is very child-specific,” Sally noted. “Some of it you just learn as you go along.” A longer handover period from the previous care setting allowed Sally and her husband to adjust and learn. “One of the social workers said, ‘You’ll find your own way,’ and we did,” she recalled. 

The journey of fostering has also required adapting their home. When their young lady first arrived, she was small enough for Sally and her husband to carry her up and down the stairs. But as she grew, so did her needs. They transformed a reception room into a bedroom, installed ramps, and made other modifications. “My husband lost his man cave,” Sally laughed. Yet, she was determined to keep the space warm and welcoming. “We’ve managed to adapt our house to still be very much our home. I didn’t want it to end up like a medical ward,” she said. 

Financial support has been crucial in ensuring that they can meet the young lady’s needs. Progress worked with the local authority to establish a tailored financial package, supplemented by top-level disability living allowance. The allowance also covers a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. “She has her own van on the drive, which she lets us drive. She can’t reach the pedals,” Sally joked. 

But fostering isn’t just about logistics and adaptations—it’s about emotional growth and connection. Sally recalled a particularly challenging episode when their young lady fell ill. Unable to verbalise her pain, she cried continuously for days. “She was awake for four days and four nights. It was very challenging,” Sally remembered. The experience was a turning point. “We realised how much we cared because we were very worried,” she said, her voice softening. “That was the positive from it all.” 

Through the highs and lows, Sally’s journey as a foster carer with Progress has been one of learning, love, and transformation. Her story is a testament to the resilience and courage required to care for vulnerable children. It’s also a reminder that fostering is about more than giving—it’s about growing together, facing challenges, and finding joy in the smallest victories. 

For those considering fostering, Sally’s story offers a glimpse into the profound impact it can have—not just on the child but on the entire family. With Progress’s unwavering support and a community of carers to lean on, the journey, though challenging, is infinitely rewarding. 

If you’re inspired by Sally’s story and want to learn more about fostering with Progress, reach out by visiting progresscare.co.uk/fostering. Every child deserves a loving, supportive home. And as Sally’s journey shows, sometimes the love you give is only the beginning of what you receive. 

Progress Welcomes Serena Richards to Fostering Panel

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Progress Fostering Service is delighted to announce the appointment of Serena Richards as a new member of its fostering panel.

Serena brings a wealth of personal experience and passion to her new role, having journeyed from being an ex care-leaver and young mother to becoming a dedicated advocate for fostering. Her inspiring story and heartfelt commitment to supporting foster carers will bring a fresh perspective to the panel.

“I’m excited to be a part of the panel, and what I’m looking forward to is foster carers with a heart—a heart to foster,” Serena shared. “Fostering is an amazing career path. It’s more than just a job; it’s about love, support, and making a difference in a child’s life.”

Serena’s journey into advocacy began when she became a mother as a teenager. This life-changing experience gave her a deep understanding of the challenges and rewards of parenting, shaping her desire to support others. “I started thinking about what I could bring to the table that would help people instead of being the person needing help,” she explained.

In her remarks following her guest speech at the recently held annual awards and lunch for Progress’ foster carers, Serena said she was inspired by the dedication and passion of the team. “Everyone’s been positive and welcoming. Hopefully, I’ve empowered them and they’ll go back feeling that they are special—because they truly are,” she said.

Progress Fostering Service is thrilled to welcome Serena to the team, where her experience, compassion, insight, and enthusiasm will undoubtedly inspire both carers and colleagues alike. Her appointment reinforces Progress’ ongoing commitment to supporting foster carers and ensuring the best outcomes for children and young people.

About Progress Fostering Service
Progress Fostering Service is dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for children and young people. We work closely with foster carers to ensure they receive the guidance, training, and support needed to make a positive impact on the lives of children.

For more information about Progress Fostering Service or to learn more about fostering opportunities, please visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering.

Foster Carers Honoured at Progress Annual Awards Ceremony

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

In a celebration marked by warmth, reflection, and gratitude, Progress Fostering Service hosted its Annual Awards Ceremony and Lunch last Friday, honouring the unwavering dedication of foster carers who continue to provide life-changing support to children and young people.

The event, held in an atmosphere of camaraderie and appreciation, brought together foster carers, social workers, and senior leadership to commemorate milestones, acknowledge achievements, and reinforce the importance of their shared mission.

“This has been a really nice day celebrating foster carers on their journey,” said Tina Bhardwaj, Head of Children’s Services at Progress. “We have foster carers who’ve reached incredible milestones—five years, ten years, fifteen years—so it was important to pause and recognise their achievements and the hard work they’ve put in.”

The event also served as a rare opportunity for carers, staff, and leadership to connect in person. “It’s a chance for people to dress up, have a day out, and feel special,” Tina added. “And more importantly, it reminds us all why we do what we do.”

A poignant highlight of the ceremony was the speech delivered by Serena Richards, a former foster child who has since transitioned to independent adulthood. Her words served as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that foster carers have on young lives, especially during challenging moments.

“I think my hope for foster carers is that they take home that they’re doing a fabulous job. It’s an amazing career path to go down, and yes, it is a job, but it’s more than parenting. It’s more than finances,” she said. “Hopefully, they will take away that they are needed, they’re loved, and we appreciate them.”

Reflecting on her personal journey, she shared how becoming a mother at a young age reshaped her perspective. “I think when I became a mum, as a teenager, I started thinking, actually, there’s more to this. What can I bring to the table that’s going to help people instead of just being the person that’s been helped?” she said.

For Michelle Earp, Fostering Manager, the gathering was particularly meaningful. Reflecting on her journey, she acknowledged how the past six months in her role had been shaped by both challenges and positive feedback from carers.

“I think it’s been a great success,” she said. “It’s lovely to see all the foster carers together, to celebrate our greatness, and to honour Gail, who meant so much to many of us.” Gail, a long-serving carer, was remembered fondly for her kindness and generosity, leaving a lasting legacy within the Progress community.

As part of the event, foster carers were invited to share feedback on their experiences, with Michelle keen to ensure that their insights shape the future of the service. “The proof will be in the pudding,” she said. “I’m looking forward to seeing the feedback and making sure we continue to address what carers need.”

Gemma Dugmore, Lead Support Worker, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the importance of consistency in the fostering service. “There’s been a lot of positive feedback today,” she noted.

“With Michelle stepping up as Registered Manager and new social workers coming on board, there’s a stronger sense of stability. The carers are forming connections, and that’s critical for the children we support.”

Looking ahead, Progress Fostering Service remains committed to strengthening its support structures for carers while also addressing the national foster carer shortage. Tina emphasised the importance of recruitment and training to ensure that every child in need has access to a stable and caring home.

“We need more foster carers,” she said. “There are so many children coming into the care system, and our priority is to find and support the best possible carers for them.”

Among the key initiatives moving forward will be the development of structured training pathways and greater opportunities for professional growth within the fostering community. Gemma highlighted plans to introduce training sessions led by social workers to, among other things, enhance peer support.

“It’s all about building connections and ensuring that carers have the tools they need,” she said.

As the event came to a close, the sentiment shared among attendees was one of pride, gratitude, and renewed commitment. For those who dedicate their lives to fostering, the ceremony was more than just an awards event—it was a reaffirmation of the vital role they play in shaping brighter futures.

With another year ahead, Progress Fostering Service stands poised to continue its mission, fuelled by the dedication of its carers and the unwavering belief that every child deserves a home where they can thrive.

A Sparkling Start to the Year

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

With a splash of creativity, a dash of teamwork, and a sprinkle of joy, Progress kicked off the year in spectacular fashion—setting the stage for a 2025 filled with connection, growth, and unforgettable moments.

On 4th January, Progress Fostering Service held its first major event of the year, setting a vibrant and engaging tone for 2025. The day was a delightful mix of creativity, connection, and celebration, all centered around the theme of Chinese New Year. The event brought together children and their carers for an enriching experience that fostered joy, collaboration, and personal growth.

Fireworks on Paper

One of the event’s standout activities was a firework picture competition, where children used chalk on black paper to craft their own interpretations of festive fireworks. The winning artwork was particularly remarkable. A 14-year-old boy, who often rushes through tasks, poured time and thought into his piece. His depiction of the Northern Lights, combined with detailed and imaginative elements, captured everyone’s attention.

The boy’s effort was not only a testament to his creativity but also to his personal growth. Despite being a settled and well-adjusted child, this was a moment of shining potential that highlighted the importance of fostering opportunities for children to express themselves in new ways. This competition was more than just a fun exercise—it was the beginning of a year-long initiative.

Creative Mandalas and Conversations

The event wasn’t just about visual art. Sara, a therapist who works closely with Progress Fostering Service, facilitated a collaborative mandala project. This activity resonated particularly well with older children, who eagerly participated in designing and assembling the intricate artwork. The mandala represented unity and teamwork, as each child’s contribution came together to form a meaningful whole.

Sara also took time to conduct “drawing conversations,” a creative and non-intrusive method of engaging children individually. Through this process, she encouraged the children to express their thoughts and emotions in a safe and supportive environment, fostering trust and understanding.

Patience, Baking, and Building Bonds

The event also featured activities tailored for younger children, including interactive games that encouraged patience and turn-taking. A young girl who typically struggles with focus surprised everyone with her active engagement and ability to take turns. Her progress during the session was a touching reminder of how these activities can bring out the best in children when given the right support.

Meanwhile, the older children embraced the chance to bake biscuits and cakes. This hands-on activity not only delighted their taste buds but also fostered teamwork and a sense of accomplishment. Watching them collaborate and share the fruits of their labour was a heartwarming sight.

Looking Ahead

This first event of the year set a strong foundation for what’s to come. The fostering service plans to hold similar gatherings regularly, either on Saturdays or during school breaks. February’s theme will revolve around “care and respect,” providing children with creative ways to explore these values. Special care is being taken to ensure that Valentine’s Day activities avoid any focus on romantic love, instead emphasising kindness, compassion, and the bonds that form within the fostering community.

Progress Fostering Service’s January event showcased the power of creativity, community, and care. It wasn’t just a day of fun—it was a day that strengthened relationships, inspired growth, and celebrated the individuality of each child. As the year unfolds, these events will continue to provide meaningful experiences that make a lasting impact on the lives of children and their carers.

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.

Progress Celebrates Creativity with Christmas Card Challenge Winner Announcement

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

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

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

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

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

Michelle Earp, Fostering Manager, shared her thoughts: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Spreading Joy During the Holidays: Christmas at Oak Cottage 

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

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

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

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

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

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

A Home, Not Just a House 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

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

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

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

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

A Supportive and Fulfilling Environment 

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

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

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

The Day-to-Day: Challenges and Rewards 

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

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

A Place of Care and Growth 

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

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

A Shared Mission of Transformation 

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

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