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Progress Celebrates Parents and Builds Community at Successful Parents’ Day Event

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Stourbridge House, an integral part of Progress, recently hosted a heartwarming and successful Parents’ Day event at the Head Office. This event aimed to provide a much-needed support network for the parents of the young persons in their care. Bethany Jordan, Interim Home Manager, and Jessica Freeman, Interim Deputy Manager, shared insights about the event’s inspiration and impact.

The idea for the Parents’ Day event originated from parent feedback indicating feelings of isolation and a lack of support. Stourbridge House responded by creating a space for parents to come together, share experiences, and form supportive connections. “We wanted to bring everyone together because we’ve had feedback from some of the parents that they feel like they’re on their own,” said Bethany Jordan. “They feel like they don’t have any support from anyone external apart from giving gifts.”

The event proved to be a resounding success, with parents engaging in meaningful conversations about their challenges and triumphs, exchanging advice on places to take their children, and discussing the support they receive. The relaxed atmosphere allowed for genuine interactions between parents and staff, fostering a sense of community and trust. “We wanted to bring them together so they can support each other as well as us,” Bethany added.

Parents had the opportunity to connect with the staff on a personal level, which was greatly appreciated. Positive feedback from parents emphasised the importance of such events, with several of them expressing a desire for the Parents’ Day to become a regular occurrence. Stourbridge House hopes to maintain and strengthen this support network.

A parent who attended the event shared her deep appreciation for Stourbridge House, describing herself as an unpaid advocate for their services. She recounted how the team facilitated her child’s trip abroad and her son’s dream visit to Harry Potter Studios. “We’ve got to keep Stourbridge House. I have enough trust in Stourbridge House and the team there,” she stated.

Another parent highlighted her son’s love for Stourbridge House, considering it his second home. She praised the team’s excellent communication and the progress her son has made in independence, cooking, personal hygiene, and laundry. “I thank the staff for that because I know that when he is in a vulnerable situation, they put his care needs first; they will make sure that he is well looked after.”

Bethany and Jessica were pleased with the positive feedback and are eager to incorporate suggestions for future events. One idea includes sending detailed emails with photos and updates about the children’s activities and well-being to enhance communication with parents.

Bethany expressed her pride in the positive impact Stourbridge House has on the children and their families. “We want to see a difference in the children. We want to see a difference in the families that we’re supporting,” she said. The dedication and collaboration of the team at Stourbridge House are pivotal to their success. “The team are a tight-knit team. They have their own roles, they all have their goals, but they work really, really well together,” Bethany remarked. “I like seeing the difference that we’re making. I like seeing how happy and comfortable they are at Stourbridge House.”

The Parents’ Day event at Stourbridge House exemplifies Progress’s commitment to supporting families and fostering a strong sense of community. The team looks forward to hosting more events in the future, continually striving to enhance the support network for the parents and children they serve.

A Day with Uncle Ray, a Support Worker with Progress Children’s Services

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Rilford, known affectionately as Uncle Ray, is a residential support worker at Portland House. Just a few months into the role, he has seamlessly integrated into the team, contributing significantly to the daily activities, and positively impacting the young people. 

With decades of experience working with children and adults with severe learning disabilities, complex needs, and challenging behaviours,  

Rilford’s journey to Progress began decades earlier in the southern African country of Zimbabwe where he trained as a teacher, a profession he also practised for a while after moving to the UK. He then transitioned to the care sector, applying his skills with young people to support individuals of various age groups, providing a wide array of care. Since joining Progress, Uncle Ray has demonstrated impressive competence, significant maturity and extensive experience working with children with severe learning disabilities, complex needs, and challenging behaviours. 

Starting his shift at Portland House, Rilford quickly dives into sorting out groceries. With meticulous care, he organises the items to cater to the preferences of the young residents, such as placing eggs in a secure drawer to prevent breakage and storing apples both in the fridge and at room temperature to suit different tastes. 

After handling the groceries, Rilford cleans the kitchen, and arranges the dishes in the dishwasher. His attention to detail and consideration for the children’s needs are evident in every task he undertakes. 

Rilford’s role keeps him active, as he often clocks over 14,000 steps a day while engaging with the children, both indoors and outdoors. He emphasizes the importance of staying active and the positive impact it has on his health. 

Having undergone induction at Progress’s head office, Rilford was eager to join the team. He fondly recalls playing on the swings during his initial weeks. His natural rapport with the children earned him the nickname “Uncle Ray,” and he is well-liked by everyone at Portland House. 

His approach to support work is based on understanding and respecting the intellectual capacities of the young people. “They are intelligent, and you must respect that. A good approach makes day-to-day activities smooth for everyone,” Rilford says. 

Manager Cosmos commends Rilford’s willingness to learn and adapt quickly. “He has fit in well and is always ready to learn,” Cosmos notes. 

As the school runs begin, Rilford is ready to focus on the young person staying behind. They discuss activities for the afternoon, ensuring everything they do is safe and enjoyable. Rilford believes in offering choices and explaining decisions, fostering a respectful and supportive environment. 

Rilford is committed to making each moment special for the children and hopes to continue earning the trust and support of his team members. 

If you are passionate about support work and want to make a difference, consider joining the team at Portland House. Visit progresscare.co.uk/jobs for our latest career opportunities across Progress. 

It’s Coming Home: Progress’ Young People Celebrate England’s Euro Victory

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

England secured a dramatic last-minute victory over the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-final, earning a spot in the final against Spain. Ollie Watkins’ brilliant strike sealed the win for England, setting up an era-defining showdown with Spain as they aim to be crowned the Champions of Europe, bring the trophy home and end years of hurt. The Three Lions’ fans are eagerly awaiting the final match to see if England can clinch their first European Championship title.

At Progress, our young people believe that it is coming home.

At Portland House, the young people joined in the celebration of the qualification for the final match as they joined the rest of the country in celebrating the national team’s win over the Netherlands, setting the stage for a monumental showdown with Spain.

With branded flags, table covers, “glasses,” plates, banners, stickers, and paper cups, the home came alive with excitement throughout the football match. At the blast of the final whistle, the young people and other team members who watched the match shared the sentiments of football fans across the country. It might actually be coming home this time around.

Football has a profoundly positive impact on young people, especially those with special needs and those in care. It encourages teamwork, boosts self-esteem, and provides a sense of belonging and achievement. It also helps young people to develop social skills, build friendships, and experience the joy of collective celebration.

At Progress, we understand the power of teamwork and shared goals, just like in football. We provide outstanding care and support, creating an environment where everyone can thrive and achieve their full potential.

If you’re a football fan who is passionate about support work, consider joining our team at Progress. Visit progresscare.co.uk/jobs for our latest career opportunities. Together, we can make a difference.

Discover the Heartwarming World of Regis House: A Place Where Young People Flourish

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At Progress, we take immense pride in providing a nurturing and supportive environment for our young people. One of our standout services, Regis House, is a testament to our commitment to fostering a sense of community and belonging for all our young people. Led by the dedicated and passionate Annette, Regis House exemplifies our ethos of creating a family-like atmosphere where children can truly thrive. 

A Home Away from Home 

Regis House is more than just a young people’s home; it is a place where they feel safe, loved, and valued. As Annette, the manager, describes, “We very much pride ourselves on being as much a family home as we can possibly be, given the needs and the provision of the service that we are providing. We are very intimate as a home, and we pride ourselves on being as much a family home as anybody could ever have.” 

This intimate, family-oriented approach is what makes Regis House unique. Despite the challenges and the intensive care required, the team members at Regis House strive to create an environment that mirrors the warmth and support of a traditional family setting. This dedication is evident in the positive feedback from social workers and guardians who frequently commend the home for its intimate and nurturing atmosphere. 

One of the key aspects of life at Regis House is the emphasis on social interaction and community involvement. Annette highlights the importance of these activities, noting that they “promote social interaction, give opportunities to meet young people with similar needs, abilities, cultures, religions, and help build friendships in a safe and secure environment.” 

Whether it is a casual social event or a structured activity, the goal is always the same: to provide our young people with opportunities to engage with their peers, build lasting friendships, and feel a sense of normalcy and inclusion. These activities are crucial for their development, helping them to prepare for transitions into adult services and fostering a sense of independence and confidence. 

Why Work at Regis House? 

If you are passionate about making a real difference in the lives of children and young adults, Regis House offers a fulfilling and rewarding career opportunity. Here are a few reasons why you should consider joining our team: 

  1. Meaningful Impact: Your work will directly contribute to the well-being and development of young people who need it the most. You will play a crucial role in shaping their futures and providing them with the support they need to thrive. 
  1. Supportive Environment: At Regis House, you will be part of a team that values collaboration, empathy, and dedication. Despite the challenges, the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among the staff makes it a truly special place to work. 
  1. Professional Growth: Progress is committed to the professional development of our staff. We provide ongoing training and support to ensure that you have the skills and knowledge needed to excel in your role. 
  1. Community Engagement: You will have the opportunity to engage with a diverse community of young people, families, and professionals, broadening your experience and enhancing your impact. 

Join Us Today 

If you are suitably qualified and have a passion for working with young people in a supportive and dynamic environment, we encourage you to explore the career opportunities at Progress. Visit progresscare.co.uk/jobs to learn more about our current vacancies and how you can become part of the Regis House family. 

Together, we can continue to make a positive difference in the lives of the young people we serve. Regis House is not just a place to work; it is a place where you can make a lasting impact and help create a brighter future for all our residents.

A Day in the Life of Priya: Team Leader at Progress

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

As a team leader at Progress Children’s Services, Priya has a busy but rewarding day overseeing the care of the young people. “I run all the shifts that I’m on. I do all the allocations and then I’m in charge of the other support workers making sure that they’re doing their job,” Priya explains of her responsibilities. 

Her day starts early, arriving at the house to check in with the overnight staff and get briefed on how the night went. “I write reports covering issues including the petty cash, logging in all the receipts,” Priya notes of her morning tasks. She then ensures the young people are up and getting ready for their day activities. 

Throughout the morning, Priya is checking in on the different staff members and young people. “Making sure everything gets done,” she says. This may involve resolving any conflicts, addressing any issues that arose overnight, or providing guidance to staff on caring for young people with complex needs. 

In the afternoon, Priya focuses on training and mentoring new staff members. “When people start here, I tend to be the one to mentor them. And tell them how to do things,” she says. She enjoys forming close bonds with her colleagues and helping them learn. 

Evenings bring more responsibilities like handling medications and doing evening checks on the residents. “We just do like the handles in the evening and just make sure the shifts go well,” Priya notes. She works to ensure a smooth transition to the overnight staff. 

By the end of her long day, Priya feels a sense of pride and accomplishment in her role. “I’ve worked very, very hard to get where I am,” she says. Sometimes tiring, she finds the work rewarding knowing she’s making a positive difference in the lives of the young people at the service. 

A Day in the Life of Jade: A Residential Support Worker at Progress

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Jade, a dedicated residential support worker at Progress Children’s Services, brings enthusiasm and compassion to her daily routine. Jade’s commitment to nurturing young people shines through in her everyday activities. Here is what a day looks like in the life of Jade, at Progress.

Jade’s day typically begins with the important task of waking and preparing our young people for the day. This includes ensuring they are dressed, fed, and ready to start their day on a positive note. “The mornings are crucial in setting a positive tone for the day,” Jade explains. “I focus on making sure the children are ready for school with everything they need.”

Once the young people are off to school, Jade shifts her attention to various administrative tasks and housekeeping responsibilities. “During this time, I take care of paperwork, ensure everything is in order, and handle any necessary checks,” Jade elaborates. “It’s important to keep the environment organised and prepared for when the children return.”

When they return from school, Jade and her team engage with the young people to plan the evening’s activities. “We sit down with them and discuss what they would like to do for the evening,” Jade says. “It’s essential to involve them in decision-making and ensure they have activities they enjoy.”

Jade emphasises the importance of tailoring activities to each young person’s interests and needs. “We have a diverse group of children with unique preferences,” Jade explains. “Some enjoy outdoor activities like football or bike rides, while others prefer indoor pursuits such as arts and crafts or computer activities.”

Throughout the day, Jade maintains a focus on building positive relationships with the young people. “Being a good role model and fostering trust are key aspects of our interactions,” Jade emphasises. “We want our young people to feel safe, supported, and valued.”

Even when the young people are at school, Jade remains engaged with her responsibilities. “We often have one or two children who stay back at the house during school hours,” Jade notes. “This allows us to provide individualised attention and support.”

Jade’s daily routine is characterised by flexibility and adaptability. “Every day is different, and we need to be responsive to the young people’s changing needs and preferences,” Jade reflects. “It’s a dynamic environment that keeps us on our toes.”

As the day winds down, Jade and her team assist the young people with their evening routines and ensure they are ready for a restful night. “We help the children wind down, get ready for bed, and ensure they feel safe and cared for,” Jade explains. “It’s all about creating a supportive and nurturing environment.”

Reflecting on her role at Progress, Jade expresses gratitude for the opportunity to make a positive impact on young prople’s lives. “I find great fulfilment in nurturing these children and helping them thrive,” Jade says. “Every day presents new challenges and rewards, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Jade’s dedication and passion for her work exemplify the values of Progress Children’s Services. Through her daily efforts, Jade contributes to creating a safe, supportive, and enriching environment where children can flourish and grow.

Be Like Jade, join us


We have rewarding career opportunities for Support Workers across Progress children’s and young adults services. Interested? Visit progresscare.co.uk/jobs to find out more about our current roles, or send your up-to-date CV to recruitment@progresscare.co.uk

Empowering and Amplifying Children’s Voices at Progress

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Supporting the young people under the care of Progress extends far beyond mere rhetoric; it’s a fundamental ethos deeply embedded within our values. Every day, we actively seek innovative ways to empower each individual and provide platforms for expression, ensuring their voices resonate throughout Progress. 

This week, we are thrilled to showcase two pioneering initiatives aimed at fostering communication and nurturing essential life skills among the young people we have the privilege to support: the introduction of a small post box and the re-launch of the Voices of Progress initiative. 

Angeline Freer, Head of Corporate and Commercial Services at Progress recently donated a vibrant red post box, to facilitate an exciting avenue for interactive expression. Angeline purchased the post box as she recognised its potential to spark young people’s imaginations and build skills for everyday life. Being small in stature, the small post box delivers inclusivity for wheelchair users and those who’s height does not enable them to reach a normal post box. 

Angeline envisions the post box facilitating a wide range of activities, offering young people the opportunity to deposit letters, cards, and feedback. Cultural festivals and birthdays etc. prompt the children to convey messages to their families, caregivers, or support network, fostering a sense of independence and agency, along with feedback on our services during Voices of Progress events. Located at our Resources Centre, the box is accessible to young people across Progress’ diverse services. 

Beyond its practical function, the post box serves as a vital tool for skill development. Simple tasks like mailing a letter can pose challenges for some children and adolescents. Engaging in this activity not only cultivates communication skills but also provides insight into the workings of the postal system, fostering a deeper connection to the community through meaningful participation. 

The post box’s arrival has sparked curiosity and enthusiasm, reinforcing Progress’ unwavering commitment to nurturing young people’s growth. This innovative addition provides a unique platform for children to share their perspectives, thereby bolstering their confidence in articulating their thoughts. 

Voices of Progress 

During a recent event hosted by Progress’ outstanding fostering service, children were invited to express their thoughts about their foster carers. This week, we are privileged to share the heartfelt messages of four children, accompanied by poignant reflections from the fostering service highlighting each child’s individuality. 

This initiative underscores Progress’ steadfast dedication to amplifying the voices of every child and young person under our care, ensuring that their experiences are heard, valued, and prioritised.

World Autism Awareness Day: Progress’ autism-aware approach

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Tuesday 2 April 2024 is World Autism Awareness Day

The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.

Autism is a lifelong neurological condition that manifests during early childhood, irrespective of gender, race or socio-economic status. The term Autism Spectrum refers to a range of characteristics. Appropriate support, accommodation and acceptance of this neurological variation allow those on the Spectrum to enjoy equal opportunity, and full and effective participation in society.

Autism is mainly characterised by its unique social interactions, non-standard ways of learning, keen interests in specific subjects, inclination to routines, challenges in typical communications and particular ways of processing sensory information.

The rate of autism in all regions of the world is high and the lack of understanding has a tremendous impact on the individuals, their families and communities.

The stigmatisation and discrimination associated with neurological differences remain substantial obstacles to diagnosis and therapies, an issue that must be addressed by both public policymakers in developing nations, as well as donor countries.

700,000

There are 700,000 autistic people in the UK – that’s more than 1 in 100. If you include their families, autism is a part of daily life for 2.8 million people.

30%

Just 30% of autistic adults in the UK are in any form of paid employment. This is amongst the lowest rates of employment for people with additional needs or disabilities.

3x

Autism is 3 times more prevalent in boys than girls. Signs of autism in girls can present themselves differently and as a result can be misdiagnosed or missed leading to more boys getting a diagnosis.

Progress’ autism-aware approach to interior design

“Colours can have a profound impact, especially for children with autism. We strive to create adaptable spaces where colours can be changed to suit individual preferences, ensuring the environment remains stimulating and comforting.” 

At the core of Progress’ approach to interior design is the concept of sensory design. We utilise principles such as space, colour, texture, form, and light to create spaces that meet the unique sensory requirements of the children they care for. These principles are not just about aesthetics; they are fundamental in addressing the sensory needs of the children.

Preet Anand, founder of Mood Interiors, has been instrumental in redefining the role of interior design at Progress’ homes. Preet and her team approach each Progress project by understanding the specific needs of the children. She described it as a comprehensive process that takes into account the individual requirements of each child.

In sensory design, colour plays a pivotal role. Preet says, “Colours can have a profound impact, especially for children with autism. We strive to create adaptable spaces where colours can be changed to suit individual preferences, ensuring the environment remains stimulating and comforting.”

A day at Oak Cottage: Progress’ Children’s Residential Service

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Visiting Oak Cottage feels like stepping into a peaceful sanctuary where every child is welcomed, every voice is valued, and every moment is cherished. It’s a place where compassion, dedication, and commitment are woven into every interaction. 

The staff here aren’t just titles like support workers or managers; they’re companions on a journey with the children, showing empathy, respect, and genuine care. 

One morning, I joined a team meeting at Oak Cottage. While the team discussed passionately, the guinea pigs playing nearby provided a calming effect. The team’s focus was on providing exceptional care for the children, ensuring each child has memorable experiences daily. 

Each team member shared insights, all driven by a desire to provide the best care possible. Oak Cottage is a sanctuary where every individual is understood, supported, and uplifted. 

At its core, Oak Cottage believes in understanding everyone’s dreams and rights to a purposeful life. Challenges are seen as opportunities for growth, and every moment is cherished. 

Through care and companionship, Oak Cottage creates an environment where love prevails, forming strong bonds between staff and children. 

Within Oak Cottage, qualities like love, compassion, and resilience shape lives. Every interaction holds the power to transform, thanks to kindness and support. 

As the meeting ended, a sense of purpose lingered—a commitment to continue uplifting and empowering every soul at Oak Cottage. 

Oak Cottage isn’t just a service; it’s a beacon of hope, showing the transformative power of empathy and community. The sign at the door says it all: “Welcome to our home.” 

If you would like to find out about current opportunities at Oak Cottage or any of our other services, please visit www.progresscare.co.uk or contact the Recruitment team directly on 01902 561 066 for a confidential chat about our roles.

From stay-at-home mum to vibrant team leader: Harjeet’s progress at Progress

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

“I do want to make a change. I want to be that person that that child can look up to, somebody that’s going to be there for them.” 

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we shine a spotlight on Harjeet, a remarkable team leader at Progress Children’s Services. For this article, Harjeet shares insights into her career journey, the challenges she faced, and the importance of supporting women in the workplace. 

Harjeet’s journey into the social care sector was fuelled by a passion for making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. She reflects, “I always wanted to be that person that a child could look to, somebody that’s going to be there for them.” Despite the demanding nature of the job, Harjeet’s commitment to providing love, stability, and support to those in need has remained unwavering over the past six years. 

Although Harjeet has transitioned from a support worker to a team leader, encountering various challenges along the way, she found Progress at a jobs fair at a period when she was trying to get back to work after years of being a stay-at-home mother.  

Her instincts as a mum have also helped her to navigate complex situations with empathy and professionalism, earning her the respect and admiration of her colleagues. Beyond working with her colleagues, her passion for her role is to support and be the voice for the children under her care. Harjeet remarks, “I want to be able to advocate for them because they don’t always have that voice.”  

In her current role, Harjeet plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of her team and the delivery of high-quality services to the children under their care. 

One of the highlights of Harjeet’s career was being recognised for her outstanding contributions over the past five years during the awards ceremony at Progress Staff Conference 2023. Although she was not in the hall when her name was called, the resounding applause served as a testament to her hard work, dedication and warm personality. Despite the demanding nature of her job, Harjeet finds fulfilment in knowing that she is making a positive impact on the lives of others. And she is always wearing a smile. 

As we reflect on Harjeet’s journey, she personifies the resilience, strength and unlimited capabilities of women in leadership, particularly at Progress where women are encouraged and supported to aim higher. Harjeet acknowledged Progress’ support of her passions and desires to achieve her goals. While she remains ambitious, Harjeet reiterated her commitment to continuous development, and giving her best in her current position.  

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us honour Women of Progress like Harjeet who inspire us to dream big and break barriers.