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

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

“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. 

From student placement to managerial role: Nicole’s Progress journey

At Progress, Nicole’s remarkable journey from a dedicated care worker to a visionary manager spearheading innovative solutions for supporting and helping vulnerable children, resonates, inspires and endears.  

Her meteoric rise is an attestation to Progress’ prioritisation of enabling its workforce to achieve their goals, while being unwaveringly committed to supporting them to bring their passion into fruition all with an overarching goal of transforming challenges into opportunities and paving the way for positive change in the lives of children and young adults. 

Nicole’s journey began with a humble start in community care work, where she provided essential support to individuals in need. Her compassion and dedication quickly became evident as she navigated the complexities of caregiving, offering not only physical assistance but also emotional support to those under her care. As she recounts: 

“I started off as a community care support worker… providing that company, that emotional support, personal care, administering medication, ensuring they’re safe.” 

Driven by a profound sense of purpose, Nicole transitioned to working with children, particularly those facing mental health and behavioural challenges. In this role, she found herself at the forefront of providing critical care and guidance to some of society’s most vulnerable members. Reflecting on this period, she shared: 

“I worked my way up to Deputy Manager… working with children with mental health and emotional behaviour disorders.” 

One pivotal moment in Nicole’s journey was her decision to become a connected person’s foster carer, providing a stable and loving home for siblings in the care of the local authority. This experience deepened her understanding of the complexities of the foster care system and reinforced her commitment to improving outcomes for children in need of care and protection. She reminisced: 

“I was a connected person’s foster carer… I looked after two siblings for around six years.” 

Nicole’s passion for social work led her to pursue further education, culminating in a degree in social work and a subsequent role within Progress’ fostering team.  

At Progress, she honed her skills in assessment and support, gaining invaluable experience that would later shape her approach to leadership.  

“I joined Progress for my placement, following my placement ending, they offered me a job within the fostering team as a supervising social worker.” 

Recognising that Nicole’s experiences align with Progress’ commitment to providing better alternatives for children in crisis, Nicole was appointed to lead Progress’ latest innovative service that provides unique support to children. 

A sneak peak inside the Nicole-led innovative service

“I’ve always wanted to open my own children’s home… Progress presented me with the new service, which was opening. They want the service to be social work-led. That’s how I got here.” 

The service which is now fully operational and is open to welcoming similarly personate qualified individuals to join Nicole and the rest of the team, is not just yet another offering but is a manifestation of Progress’ unwavering commitment to ensuring that every child has access to safety, stability, and support during times of uncertainty. The service provides a lifeline when it is needed most. 

As the Nicole-led service continues to make positive impacts and positively transform lives, her story reinforces the power of visionary determination, and the critical roles of Progress in supporting and guiding the workforce to reach full potentials.  

From her humble beginnings as a care worker to her current role as a visionary leader, Nicole’s impact, enabled by Progress, on the lives of vulnerable children is undeniable. And as she looks to the future, one thing remains certain: Nicole’s journey is far from over, and her passion aligns with Progress’ values that continue to inspire the entire workforce and the people the organisation serves. 

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

Progress is Proud to Support Employees to Become Foster Carers

Progress Children’s Services Ltd and Progress Adult Living Services Ltd, collectively known as Progress, are happy to announce we are part of the Fostering Network’s ‘Fostering Friendly Employers’ programme and as such, we have implemented a fostering friendly policy for employees who foster or applying to do so. Through this policy, Progress offers up to five additional days of paid leave, to enable staff to complete their fostering commitments, training and other critical activities in the role or in the application and approval process.

Angeline Freer, Head of Corporate and Commercial Services at Progress explains “In addition to always looking for more ways to support our workforce, I felt it was important as a fostering agency to support this initiative and our employees to foster, given the critical need for more families for children who need them, which is ultimately why we exist”.

The Fostering Network, a membership body, is the UK’s leading fostering charity. Their Executive Chair, Mervyn Erskine says ‘becoming a fostering friendly employer is something to be really proud of. Foster carers are the bedrock of children’s social care, for the difference they make to the lives of children. It is important that this vital role is not only recognised, but also encouraged by employers.  

Angeline added, “By supporting our employees to foster, be that through us or another agency, we can help to address the thousands of extra fostering households needed in the UK, for the children who need them most”. 

The fostering community is open to people from all walks of life, no matter your age, gender, relationship status or sexual orientation. If you are considering fostering, please get in touch with Progress via enquiry.fostering@progresscare.co.uk to find out more. 

Progress is Supporting The Care Workers’ Charity

Progress Children’s Services Ltd and Progress Adult Living Services Ltd are proud to be supporter members of The Care Workers’ Charity. According to Neil Flack, the National Accounts Manager for The Care Workers’ Charity, this collaboration goes beyond mere financial assistance. Instead, it embraces a holistic approach to support the dedicated care workers the charity supports.

The Care Workers’ Charity, founded in 2009, has been on a steadfast mission to amplify the voices of care workers. Actively participating in government discussions, policy forums, and academic centres, the charity is committed to providing a robust voice for care workers. Neil emphasises, “As the UK’s charity for Care Workers, we are invited to represent the care workers’ perspective, translating the workforce’s experiences into high-level analysis and guiding sustainable reform”.

Renowned for its diverse support initiatives, The Care Workers’ Charity places a significant focus on mental health and overall well-being. Neil highlights, ” The CWC offer Care Workers access to free mental health counselling and non-repayable one-off crisis grants.” Our confidential guidance acts as a safety net for care workers, supporting dignity in times of adversity.” The comprehensive financial support extends to various needs, from utility bills to unexpected expenses like car repairs, replacement white goods or daily living costs.

The aim is not solely to address immediate financial needs but also to provide ongoing support for the broader well-being of care workers.

“Progress is delighted to direct our social responsibility focus to The Care Workers’ Charity and their critical support of the amazing and dedicated care workforce on which we, and the individuals we exist to support, completely rely,” said Angeline Freer, Head of Corporate and Commercial Services, Progress Children’s Services Ltd and Progress Adult Living Services Ltd.

By actively engaging with The Care Workers’ Charity, Progress is also enhancing the overall well-being of their staff, recognising the broader impact on mental health, job satisfaction, and work-life balance.

“Supporter membership enables care providers to show their commitment to the sector and opportunities for active engagement” … Supporter members can be asked to nominate Care workers to attend panel discussions, participate in Professional Care Workers’ Week and receive regular updates on events and opportunities,” Neil said.

UK care workers can also access free therapy sessions, providing a confidential space to discuss job-related challenges or personal issues. Progress’ support for the charity is also intended to create a supportive environment for their care workers.

Neil emphasises the critical role of effective communication and the distribution of relevant information within care organisations. He notes, “Ensuring the guidance material is well distributed in areas your team can easily access is vital.”

As the collaboration unfolds, Neil expressed a commitment to ongoing communication and a readiness to address any needs or concerns that may arise.

The partnership between Progress and The Care Workers’ Charity aspires to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of care workers within and beyond the organisation. Together, they aim to foster a culture of support and well-being, creating a ripple effect that resonates across the UK care sector.

Progress Employee Transforms Career Through Apprenticeship Programme

From Farming to Facilities: Ian’s Journey to Success 

Regarded as a beacon of determination and resilience that shines bright, Ian is part of Progress’ facilities maintenance team, and his journey epitomises the transformative power of apprenticeship programmes. As National Apprenticeship Week dawns upon us, Ian’s story serves as a testament to the opportunities and growth these initiatives offer. 

Ian’s journey began with humble origins. Raised in a nomadic fashion due to his father’s military service, Ian’s educational path was anything but conventional. With a string of school changes and no formal qualifications to his name, he found himself thrust into the world of farming at a tender age, where hard work and grit became his constant companions. 

However, fate had more in store for Ian. Two years ago, he embarked on a new chapter by joining Progress, a decision that he said would alter the course of his career and life. Initially hesitant about formal education, Ian’s perspective shifted when he began a Progress-sponsored apprenticeship programme that is tailored to his needs—a property maintenance course offered by a local college. Under the guidance of his line manager, he seized this opportunity to broaden his skill set and start a journey towards gaining the qualifications he once lacked. 

In a candid interview at Progress Head Office, Ian reminisced about his journey, recounting the initial uncertainties and subsequent triumphs. He shared, “I’ve never been without a job. I’ve got loads of experience but no qualifications. So as soon as I came to Progress, they found this property maintenance course for me in a college, they put me on it.”  

Ian’s thirst for knowledge was palpable as he delved into various activities, from mastering bricklaying to relishing his foray into electrical work. He added, “That is what I really enjoy. I enjoy that more than bricklaying, but I love bricklaying, and I like slabbing and fencing but I really enjoy doing the electrical side of it.” 

Crucially, Ian’s story wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging the unwavering support of his line manager Vanessa, head of department Angeline, and the entire Progress team.  

Vanessa emphasised the importance of Progress’ apprenticeship initiative, stating, “What we want to do is be able to give him the qualification to be able to progress his career in any way he chooses.” She continued, “His apprenticeship covers a wide range of different trades, so he gets to try lots of different things, because his job requires him to have a wide range of skills.” 

As Ian looks ahead to the future, especially his graduation in 2025, his ambitions are bold and unwavering. At 44 years young, he envisions himself not just as a skilled maintenance officer but as a leader within the maintenance team—a beacon of inspiration for others embarking on similar paths. His transformation to education-loving, forward-thinking, ambitious and aspirational proficient person is a testament to the power of perseverance and lifelong learning that apprenticeship can provide. 

At Progress, Ian’s journey stands as a reminder that with determination and support, anyone can rewrite their story.  

“As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, I am inspired by the stories of growth and achievement within our organisation. Progress is not just a workplace; it’s a learning environment, and we are dedicated to providing unparalleled support for our team members pursuing apprenticeships,” said Claire Rogers, Managing Director, Progress. 

As National Apprenticeship Week unfolds, Ian’s tale serves as a rallying cry for organisations to invest in their employees’ potential and nurture talent from all walks of life.  

For Ian, the sky’s the limit, and with each passing day, he moves one step closer to realising his dreams, fuelled by the unwavering belief that this is indeed within reach. 

Would you like to join our amazing team? Check out available career opportunities at Progress here.

Empowering Careers: Phil’s Journey of Growth and Development at Progress

As National Apprenticeship Week unfolds, it is essential to shed light on success stories that exemplify the transformative power of apprenticeships. Phil Mcdonald, the Head of Adult Services at Progress, shares his remarkable 15-year journey within the organisation, and highlights the pivotal role apprenticeships play in professional development. 

Phil’s journey at Progress commenced 15 years ago when he joined as a Senior Support Worker. His initial role within the organisation involved providing care and support. Over the years, he progressed through various roles, including a Registered Manager for short breaks and later expanded his responsibilities to oversee The Hub service. 

As Progress evolved, so did Phil’s role. Services flexed to expand their reach and Phil found himself managing different facets of the organisation.  In his current role as Head of Adult Serivces, he is able to utilise the wide range of experiences gained from the breadth of opportunities afforded to him within the organisation. 

Phil’s Commitment to Learning 

One of the key elements that fuelled Phil’s upward trajectory was his commitment to continuous learning. Progress, recognising the value of upskilling its workforce, supported Phil through various management qualifications. Phil embarked on a journey to complete his Level 5 management qualification, and he has even begun a Level 7 qualification, showcasing Progress’ commitment to providing opportunities for professional growth. 


“Because of the nature of the job that we do, there’s a lot of new things all the time. So, you’re experiencing and learning a lot,” Phil said. 

An essential aspect of Phil’s success story lies in his ability to strike a balance between his work responsibilities and the pursuit of qualifications. With the support of Progress, he managed to allocate time for off-the-job learning, integrating his newfound knowledge seamlessly into his daily responsibilities. This balance is crucial for any employee looking to enhance their skills while maintaining their professional duties. 

Phil emphasises the importance of recognising people’s interests and tailoring apprenticeship opportunities accordingly. Whether it’s a subject specifically focused for your role or a specialised interest that just may add something extra, Progress identifies potential apprentices based on their commitment and passion. Phil encourages a culture where individuals are not afraid to think differently, allowing for lateral movements within the organisation to support personal development. 

As Phil reflects on his journey, he acknowledges that the nature of the job at Progress involves constantly learning and adapting. He envisions a future where more individuals within the organisation embrace apprenticeships, recognising them not as daunting commitments but as integral parts of their day-to-day lives. 

Phil Mcdonald’s journey at Progress is a testament to the organisation’s commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and development. As National Apprenticeship Week encourages reflection on success stories, Phil’s narrative stands out as an inspiration for aspiring professionals. Progress, through its unwavering support of apprenticeships, continues to shape the careers of individuals like Phil, contributing to the growth and success of both the organisation and its dedicated workforce. 

“As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, I am inspired by the stories of growth and achievement within our organisation. Progress is not just a workplace; it’s a learning environment, and we are dedicated to providing unparalleled support for our team members pursuing apprenticeships,” said Claire Rogers, Managing Director, Progress. 

Would you like to join our amazing team? Check out available career opportunities at Progress here.

Progress CEO Honoured as Business Woman of The Year

Balwinder Dhanoa, the Chief Executive Officer of Progress, was recently bestowed with the title of Business Woman of The Year at the highly acclaimed Signature Award event held in Birmingham. This prestigious recognition serves as a testament to Bal’s exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to excellence in the business realm. 

Following the official announcement, Bal shared her genuine surprise and gratitude, stating, “I think one can never be prepared on how to receive the news of being a winner. I was honestly surprised and even a little bit shocked to have been selected, as the competition for the award of ‘Business Woman of the Year’ was strong.” 

Bal’s journey to success has been marked by resilience, vision, and a profound commitment to empowering women in the business arena. Reflecting on her achievements, she expressed her aspiration to elevate more women to positions of influence and recognition, stating, “In winning the award, for me, it raises the bar to empower more and more women to excel and be recognised for their work, and building a strong foundation in business.” 

One of the hallmarks of Progress under Bal’s leadership has been its dedication to fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment, particularly for women. Bal stated, “I am proud that as a business we employ many strong women, and some have a seat at the senior executive level and beyond.” 

Bal and Claire: Progress CEO and MD

Looking ahead, Bal outlined her vision for the future of women in business, highlighting her commitment to providing support and mentorship opportunities. She revealed her involvement in  ‘Business Women of Influence,’ a platform aimed at enabling women to achieve their business and leadership goals. 

Over the past 24 years, Progress has established itself as a beacon of reliability and excellence, winning awards, garnering accolades, recognitions and commendations for its outstanding services. Despite facing numerous external challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, Progress has remained resilient under Bal’s guidance. She attributes this resilience to the company’s prudent financial management and unwavering focus on maintaining stability. 

As Bal emphasises, “We remain strong through all the challenges because we are focused, and we balance our financial resources efficiently, making sure we never place the company into any financial risk.” 

Operating primarily in the domain of care and outcomes, Progress relies heavily on seamless collaboration between its Operations and Corporate teams. Bal underscores the pivotal role of the workforce in driving the company’s success, emphasising the importance of investing in employee support and development. 

Behind the scenes, Bal assumes multiple roles, including providing strategic vision and guidance. Her tireless dedication to ensuring the continued growth and success of Progress is evident in her hands-on approach to leadership. 

Bal’s remarkable journey from founding Progress to being honoured as Business Woman of The Year is a testament to her exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to empowering women in the business world. Her insights and accomplishments serve as a motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders alike, underscoring the importance of vision, determination, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. 

 

Would you like to join our amazing team? Check out available career opportunities at Progress here.

Providing Individualised Care for Young People with Complex Needs at Hilton House

At Progress Children’s Services, the focus is on meeting the unique needs of young individuals, especially children with complex challenges. Josh, manager of one of our new children’s homes, offers an in-depth look into the service’s distinctive approach, its journey, and the impactful progress achieved within a short period. 

The home, Hilton House, is built on a singular focus: providing individualised care for young people with complex needs. As Josh reflects on the service’s inception, he emphasises, “our goal was to create a haven where each individual receives tailored support, recognising the uniqueness of their challenges and strengths.” 

The journey started in November 2023, when the first young person moved in. Josh highlights the cohesive bond formed among staff members. “We’ve built a team that understands the intricacies of specialised care, creating a supportive environment for both residents and staff,” he notes. 

As the home continues on its mission, Josh noted that the key to overcoming challenges is the dedicated team understanding the importance of trust-building and the need for a secure environment. “We navigate challenges together, ensuring the well-being and comfort of our residents,” he explains. 

Qualities of the Ideal Team Member 

Comprising individuals with extensive experience in the care sector, Josh’s team has been instrumental in achieving early successes. However, recruitment remains an ongoing focus. “We are committed to bringing in individuals who share our passion for specialised care. Finding the right team members, especially those willing to commit to full-time roles, is crucial for our continued success,” Josh states. 

Josh articulates the qualities he values in team members, emphasising the importance of patience, understanding, and a willingness to invest hard work. “Our ideal team members recognise the significance of small achievements and approach their work with compassion. They understand the journey and challenges that come with specialised care,” he highlights. 

The Joy of Caring: The Heart of the Service 

For Josh, the joy of caring lies in witnessing achievements of young people. “It’s about celebrating the small steps, the gradual independence achieved by our residents. The unique challenges of each day are met with teamwork, compassion, and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact,” he shares. He added that Progress places a strong emphasis on the personal growth and development of everyone under its care. 

The team at Hilton House have rapidly built a shared trust and remarkable achievements. Josh attributes this success to experienced staff and effective team dynamics. “Trust is at the core of our approach. The successes we’ve witnessed are a testament to the dedication of our team and their ability to form strong connections with the residents,” he affirms. 

Blending Experience and Expertise 

As the discussion turns to prospective team members’ qualifications, Josh emphasises the importance of both experience and formal qualifications. “We welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with experience in elderly care or different children’s homes. Personal qualities, such as patience and understanding, are equally vital in our line of work,” he states. 

Josh shares his personal journey, highlighting the transition from agency work to a fulfilling career in residential care. “Residential care offers camaraderie, teamwork, and a constant stream of new challenges. It’s not just a job; it’s a career that becomes immensely rewarding when approached with dedication and passion,” he reflects. 

A Bright Future Ahead 

Josh provides a glimpse into the ongoing progress at the service. “Our structured approach to transition and dedicated team have laid the foundation for positive outcomes. As we continue to grow, our impact on the lives of the young individuals we support will only strengthen,” he expresses with optimism. 

The home stands as a testament to the transformative power of specialised care. Through its unwavering commitment to individualised support, compassionate team dynamics, and a focus on positive outcomes for our children and young people, Josh and his team members at the service are carving a distinctive path in the realm of children’s services. The journey is ongoing, with the promise of a brighter and more fulfilling future for the residents under its care. 

We have career opportunities for experienced Support Workers for our children’s homes in Aldridge and Wolverhampton. Contact us to book your space at our forthcoming recruitment day. Shifts Available: Earlies and Lates OR Long Days, Nights – Full Time Hours. Send your CV to recruitment@progresscare.co.uk
Or call 01902 561 066 

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

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