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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.

What you need to know about The Hub

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At Progress, The Hub is a critically important service through which we provide uniquely impactful and personalised support and care services. Kimberley Parkes, the Service Lead, shared insights into the inspirational work being done at The Hub. 

Describing the evolution of The Hub, Kimberley highlighted the significant growth and transformation of the service. “It’s much more fun now,” she remarked. Over the years, The Hub has expanded to include supported living, allowing for a more consistent and impactful approach. Unlike temporary respite care, supported living enables sustained progress and the achievement of long-term goals. “We currently support young adults and their families in the community,” Kimberley explained. 

One of the most remarkable aspects of The Hub is its commitment to enabling independence and normalcy for its residents. Kimberley recounted a touching example: “There was someone who had never been to the seaside before and supporting them to see it for the first time was incredible.” The Hub’s philosophy is centred on empowering individuals to achieve their best lives, regardless of their challenges. 

The team at The Hub is integral to its success. Kimberley outlined the qualities sought in team members: trustworthiness, a willingness to take positive risks, and innate kindness. “We need some energy; we want sparking, exciting people,” she stated. This dynamic and compassionate approach is essential in creating a supportive and stimulating environment for both staff and residents. 

A typical day at The Hub involves a blend of routine tasks and personalised activities designed to promote independence and well-being. “From domestic chores to personal care, and robust activity schedules including swimming and physio exercises, we tailor our support to each individual’s needs,” Kimberley said. The emphasis on engaging and meaningful activities ensures that both staff and young people find joy and purpose in their daily interactions. 

The uniqueness of The Hub extends to its approach to professional development. Kimberley’s own career progression within Progress exemplifies the opportunities available. “From a five-hour-a-week flexible support worker to my current role, I’ve had varied roles and experiences over the last eight years,” she shared. This culture of growth and empowerment is mirrored in the paths of many team leaders who have risen through the ranks. 

The Hub Service at Progress, without any doubts, through its innovative and compassionate approach, continues to empower young adults to live their best lives, creating lasting impacts on individuals and the community. As Kimberley aptly puts it, “We want them to achieve things they’ve not necessarily achieved before and experience things they’ve never experienced.” 

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. Click here to learn more about our current vacancies and how you can become part of The Hub family. 

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.

Deimante and Emily: Returning Team Leaders Bring Renewed Energy to Progress

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Progress is delighted to welcome back two exceptional team leaders, Deimante and Emily, who are rejoining our team to enhance the lives of the young people we serve. Their return signifies a renewed commitment to our mission and brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and fresh perspectives to our team. 

After a two-year hiatus, Deimante has returned to Progress, where she previously dedicated four years. “The experiences I had here were unparalleled. Progress is unique, and the bonds I formed are irreplaceable,” she shared. Deimante’s journey through various roles has reinforced her passion for fostering transformation in young people’s lives. She recalled a memorable experience where a young person transitioned from an obsession with food to actively participating in cooking, marking a significant achievement in their progress. 

Emily rejoined Progress after earning a master’s degree in psychology, bringing with her a deeper commitment to supporting the young people and her team members. “I’ve always wanted more responsibility, and my psychology studies made me realise how much more I wanted to give back,” she said. Emily’s focus on building strong relationships with young people and their families underscores her dedication to making a substantial impact within the organisation. 

Emily – Team Leader, Progress Children’s Services

Both Deimante and Emily are eager to embrace their roles as team leaders, driven by the potential to effect positive change. “The more you climb the ladder, the more difference you can make,” Emily noted, highlighting her ambition to eventually become a deputy manager. Their experiences outside of Progress have enriched their perspectives, and they are ready to apply these insights to benefit our community. 

Deimante and Emily’s return signifies a new chapter filled with opportunities for growth and development. Their stories of dedication and growth resonate with our core values, and we are excited to see the positive impact they will continue to make. 

Join Our Team 

If you share our values of care, trust, respect, and progress, and a commitment to making a positive impact, consider joining our team at Progress. Explore the latest career opportunities at progresscare.co.uk/jobs and be a part of a community that will truly value you. 

Welcome back, Deimante and Emily! Your return is a testament to the enduring spirit and commitment that defines Progress. 

What makes someone a perfect fit for Progress?

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At Progress, we are on a mission to make a real difference in the lives of young people. Our Managing Director, Claire Rogers, recently shared her insights on what makes someone a perfect fit for our team. If you are considering a career in social care and want to be part of a team that values connection, passion, and personal growth, read on. 

Claire began by emphasising the importance of shared values. “Of course we want people that are experienced. Of course we want people that have done this work before,” she said. “But first and foremost, what we’re looking for are people who are aligned to our values. People that are coming into social care because they care, because they want to make a difference, because they are passionate about making a difference, because they can connect with young people.” 

At Progress, the ability to connect with young people is paramount. Claire highlighted that beyond the paperwork and academic pressures, the real value lies in those who can build genuine connections. “People who actually want to play and are enjoying being here. We lose sometimes that connection to what we are doing because there is so much pressure over paperwork and academia. But actually, there’s nothing more valuable than somebody that can come in and can connect with young people, that can listen and take feedback, learn.” 

We also believe in fostering an environment where learning from mistakes is encouraged. “One of the things we’re really proud of here at Progress is where we try not to be punitive. We accept and recognise that everyone’s human, people make mistakes. I think it’s important to recognise that, but as long as we learn from those mistakes, I think that’s what’s really important.” 

Claire’s message is clear: Progress is looking for people from all walks of life. “We’re looking for all types of people. There is no age limitation, there is no age restrictions, there is no gender or race. At the end of the day, we’re all people needing support and we’re all there for the common goal, which is to make a difference to people’s lives.” 

If you share our passion for making a difference and want to work in an environment that values your growth and connection with others, we invite you to join our team. Click here to explore our latest career opportunities. 

Together, let us create positive experiences and improved outcomes for children and young people. 

Career Growth at Progress: The Priya Story

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

“Being the youngest here was daunting at first, but the responsibility has matured me in ways I hadn’t anticipated.” 

At Progress, career growth isn’t just a possibility; it’s a promise. Our commitment to fostering professional development is embodied in the inspiring journey of Priya, who transitioned from a live-in carer to a respected team leader at Portland House. Her story is a testament to the opportunities and support available to everyone who joins our team. 

Priya’s journey with Progress began three years ago in October. Reflecting on her start, Priya recalls, “I really needed a job that would pay the bills. I had experienced a loss in the family and took time off. I had been working as a live-in carer, traveling across the UK to care for people in need.” 

Despite initial uncertainties when Portland House was restructuring, Priya’s determination saw her through various roles within the organisation. “I moved around quite a bit,” she recalls, “but eventually, I returned to Portland House, where I felt truly at home.” 

Priya’s ascent to team leader was a natural evolution driven by necessity and her proactive approach. “Our team needed leadership,” she explains. “I had been stepping up in various roles even before officially becoming a team leader. The support from my colleagues was incredible.” 

In her role, Priya manages shifts, allocates tasks, and ensures that every aspect of care is meticulously executed. “We’re not just colleagues; we’re friends,” Priya emphasizes. “The bond we share as a team is essential in navigating the challenges we face.” 

Youth, Maturity, and Dedication 

Despite being the youngest team member, Priya’s maturity and dedication shine through. “Being the youngest here was daunting at first,” she admits. “But the responsibility has matured me in ways I hadn’t anticipated.” 

Priya believes that the ideal team member at Portland House needs to handle challenging situations with empathy and assertiveness. “We need people who can handle tough situations with empathy and assertiveness,” she stresses. 

Looking towards the future, Priya is determined to achieve an outstanding rating for Portland House by maintaining strong team dynamics and prioritising the children’s well-being. “Completing paperwork diligently and focusing on communication are crucial,” she explains. “We want to ensure that every child’s needs are met.” 

As she continues her journey, Priya is eager to further her qualifications and explore new opportunities at Progress. “I’m content as a team leader for now,” she says, “but I’m eager to explore new opportunities at Progress and continue growing.” 

Join Us at Progress 

If you are passionate about career growth and making a difference, Progress offers the perfect environment for you to thrive. Like Priya, you can start your journey with us and grow into roles that shape your career and impact lives positively. 

Explore the latest career opportunities at Progress by visiting progresscare.co.uk/jobs and take the first step towards a fulfilling career with us. 

Experience the Extraordinary with Progress: From Wireless Festival VIP Tickets to All-Expense Paid Trips to Paris!

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At Progress, we believe in going above and beyond to create exceptional experiences for both our young people and our dedicated support workers. This July, we’re taking our commitment to the next level by offering unforgettable opportunities that blend fun and work in the most exciting ways. 

On Friday, July 12, hip-hop superstar Nicki Minaj will headline the opening night of the Wireless Festival. She will be joined by Ice Spice, Sean Paul, and tens of thousands of concert-goers, including a special group from Progress. Our young people and support workers will enjoy the concert from the best seats in the house with VIP tickets! 

But our commitment to extraordinary experiences doesn’t stop at music festivals. We’ve also treated our young people and support workers to all-expense paid trips to Disneyland in Paris. These adventures are a testament to our dedication to ensuring that everyone in the Progress family has the best experiences possible. 

“At Progress, the role of a residential support worker extends far beyond the regular activities at our services,” said Claire Rogers, Managing Director of Progress. “We believe in providing access to fun and enriching events such as festivals and international trips. This not only enhances the lives of our young people but also ensures that our staff enjoy their work and feel valued.” 

If you’re someone who loves concerts and outdoor adventures, Progress offers the perfect opportunity to reimagine support work. Our approach ensures that while you’re making a difference in the lives of young people, you’re also creating unforgettable memories and having fun along the way. 

Join us at Progress and be part of a team that values exceptional experiences. Explore our latest career opportunities and see how you can make a difference while enjoying unique perks. Visit progresscare.co.uk/jobs to apply today. 

Together, let’s create a brighter future and extraordinary experiences for everyone at Progress. 

Meet Amy: Oak Cottage’s New Manager

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

We are thrilled to introduce Amy as the new Home Manager at Oak Cottage, a vital service within the Progress community. With a rich background in nursing and a passion for working with children with complex needs, Amy brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to our team. 

Amy’s journey in healthcare began in palliative care for children with tracheostomies. “My first job was working with children in palliative care, and I stayed there for years,” she recalls. Her career then took her to a general hospital paediatric ward, where she worked for nearly seven years. Later, Amy transitioned to a county hospital specialising in children’s mental health. 

Throughout her career, Amy has developed a deep understanding of and passion for autism and ADHD. “I have three children, two of whom are autistic,” she shares. “This personal experience has fueled my passion for advocating for children with autism and ensuring they receive the best possible care.” 

Amy’s approach to care is rooted in empathy and a desire to create a fulfilling environment for children with complex needs. She emphasises the importance of understanding each child’s unique experiences and finding effective coping mechanisms. “For instance, boys and girls often display autistic traits differently. My son is very reactive and sensitive to noise, while my daughter internalises everything,” Amy explains. This nuanced understanding allows her to tailor care strategies to individual needs. 

At Oak Cottage, Amy is committed to enhancing staff knowledge and training, particularly regarding physical health and complex care needs. “When working with children that are so complex, it’s crucial to understand why you’re doing something,” she states. Amy’s goal is to create a supportive and knowledgeable team that can provide the highest level of care. 

Amy also believes in creating a home-like environment for the children. “Eating is not just about putting food in your mouth; it’s about the sensory process, like the touch and smell of the food,” she notes. She aims to introduce experiences that many children might be missing, such as communal meals that engage all senses and foster a family-like atmosphere. 

Trust and honesty are core values for Amy. “Trust is the most important thing,” she asserts. “If you can’t trust someone, you have no boundaries. I always tell my staff, if you’re honest with me, I’ll have your back 100%.” 

Amy’s leadership style is already making an impact. “I’m very different from everyone else who’s been here. I’m implementing rules and following through on them. I believe we’ll get there with time and support.” 

We are excited to see the positive changes Amy will bring to Oak Cottage and look forward to the continued growth and development of our services under her leadership. 

Interested in joining Amy and the team at Progress? Check out available career opportunities at progresscare.co.uk/jobs. Come be a part of a dedicated team making a real difference in the lives of children with complex needs. 

Portland House: Join Us on Our Journey to Outstanding Care

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Portland House, a standout within the Progress network, is on an inspiring journey towards achieving an outstanding rating from Ofsted. Under the dynamic leadership of Dani, the registered manager, the team at Portland House embraces a philosophy of individualised care, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the children they serve. 

Dani emphasises the unique approach of Portland House, where challenging cases are not shied away from, but embraced with a steadfast commitment to each child’s journey. “We don’t shy away from difficult cases,” Dani explains. “Here, we take on those challenges and remain committed to the journey with each child.” 

The strength of Portland House lies in its cohesive team spirit, especially during tough days. Dani reflects on the collective resilience of the staff, highlighting how they unite to navigate challenges. “Even on the hardest days, our team comes together, shares a laugh, and supports each other,” Dani remarks. This camaraderie among staff ensures that young people receive a consistently high level of care, even in the face of adversity. 

Looking to the Future 

Looking towards the future, Dani envisions building on the solid foundation laid over the past 12 months. The goal is clear: to demonstrate outstanding elements of care for even the most challenging cases. “We aim to continue what we’ve been doing—showing outstanding care for very difficult children,” Dani states optimistically. 

Dani also emphasises the impact of this outstanding care on the children’s lives, citing instances where Portland House provides opportunities that may not be available elsewhere. “Ofsted recognises that we offer experiences like going to the beach or the fire park, which might seem simple but are profound for these children,” Dani explains. 

Why Join Portland House? 

Portland House’s vision is to push boundaries further, demonstrating how the team’s approach achieves exceptional outcomes safely and consistently. “I would like to see an outstanding rating,” Dani declares, highlighting the commitment to evidencing the remarkable progress made by the team. 

Working at Portland House is not just about meeting standards; it’s about surpassing them and showcasing what exceptional care truly looks like. With Dani’s leadership and the dedicated team’s unwavering support, Portland House is poised to continue its transformative work, ensuring that every child receives the care and opportunities they deserve. 

Career Opportunities at Progress 

If you are passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a team that values compassion, resilience, and unity, Portland House is the place for you. We are looking for dedicated individuals who are eager to join us on our journey towards outstanding care. 

Explore the latest career opportunities at Progress and join us in making a real impact. Visit progresscare.co.uk/jobs to apply today and be part of something truly exceptional.