Be inspired by our staff who work in our residential homes.

Tara’s Story

After nearly 20 years of experience working across children’s social care, Tara feels a career in residential children’s home has given her the chance to make a real difference. 

What does a typical day for you look like?

“It is very much like any other household. The day starts with getting the young people ready for school – getting up, having breakfast, and making sure they have everything they need for the day.

“Once the young people have left for school, we ensure the home is clean and tidy (like you would in your own home), and then it is on to the meetings or visits for the day to help make sure we have everything in place to support the children.

“When the young people come home from school, we have tea together and then do what any other family would do - watch TV, do some activities, and chill out. It all depends on what day it is. Then it’s time to relax for bedtime. Before doing it all again the next day.”

What are the challenges in the role?

“There can be daily challenges due to the different needs of the young people. The holidays, especially Christmas, can be a very emotional time for young people when they are not with their family. It is challenging seeing the young people upset or when they are low, but we rally around them, and they are soon smiling again.”

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

“The biggest reward is working with the young people and seeing them grow. Some of my favourite memories have been taking them on holidays and watching them have fun and just be children. From the moment they move to our home, we do our best to help create positive memories together.

“It doesn’t end when they move out. Some of our young people stay in touch. They pop back to see us, for a brew or a natter, or ring us out of the blue just to tell us they miss living at the home. That is why I love doing this job. I truly believe we make a difference at our home.”

What would you say to anyone considering a role in residential?

“There are lots of training and development opportunities, regular supervision, and a friendly team to support you. Working in residential is a way of life, it is either for you or it isn’t, but if it is, you won’t regret it.”

Nicholas' story  

After 30 years of working in residential children’s homes, Nicholas still loves the role where he can create a positive and nurturing environment where children can thrive.     

How did you start working in residential services?   

“I fell into working with vulnerable children by accident. After not doing very well at school, I was working in a leisure centre when a friend convinced me to apply for a role. The rest, as they say, is history. I am fortunate to still be working in an environment I truly love.”

What do you enjoy most about working in a children’s home?

“There are countless rewards, but the best is watching the kids flourish and seeing them with smiles on their faces. Providing the kids with an environment, where they can try new things, have new experiences and see that the world they live in isn’t always difficult, is incredibly fulfilling.”

What are the challenges of working in a children’s home?

“It can sometimes be challenging, but the good times you have with the kids always outweigh them. Working alongside a great team provides invaluable support and encouragement. We can share ideas, learn from each other, and witness the positive impact we have on the lives of these young people.”

What would you say to someone thinking about a career in residential childcare?

“Approach the career with an open mind. Show the children how much you genuinely care about them and that you won’t judge them. There is a wealth of support available to help you develop your skills and excel in this rewarding career.”

Chrissy’s story

Chrissy's career in children's homes spans over 40 years, driven by a desire to provide a safe and nurturing environment for young people.

How did you start working in a children’s home?  

“After studying social care at college, I applied to work as a relief residential care officer. It was a great steppingstone, allowing me an insight into what the role was all about. After gaining the experience I needed, I applied for a full-time role at Amersall Home. 40 years on I’m still working here as the registered manager, and I love it!”

What is a typical working day like?

“It’s a bit different now I’m a manager. Although a lot of time is taken up in meetings and discussions to help ensure the best possible care for the children, my favourite part of the day is spending time with the kids, seeing how they are doing and hearing about their day.”

What’s the most rewarding thing about working in a children’s home?

“The kids! I have always looked forward to coming to work. Every day is different, and sometimes it can be difficult, but the difference you can make to a child’s life and to their future is immense.

“Over the years, there have been children who have kept in touch. It is always lovely when they call out of the blue to tell you their latest achievement. It is amazing what they remember about living in the home and to hear from them how you have positively impacted their life.”

What do you think the children and young people need from the team at the home?

“To feel safe, wanted and loved. It takes time, it isn’t something that happens overnight, but it is worth it. We are always clear with the kids from the beginning, that we aren’t there to replace their family, we are here for them.

“We will always help them, where we can, to keep those relationships with their family. Sometimes, this might involve helping to facilitate visits with parents, such as inviting them for tea or helping them to keep in contact in other ways. Our focus is always on what is in the best interest of the child.”

How do you support new team members?

“There is lots of support. When you first join, you’ll be matched with an experienced staff member who will guide you and act as a mentor. You also have the support of the wider team too. You will have a full training programme to complete, and the time and support to complete it. There are lots of opportunities for progression if this is something that is of interest.”

What would you say to anyone thinking of a career in residential childcare?

“Go for it! It’s incredibly rewarding. Yes, there are some challenges, but the joys of seeing the child’s growth, seeing how they come along, makes it all worthwhile.”

Kev's story  

Kev began his career in residential children’s homes in 2008. With no experience working with children and young people, he started as a relief worker, taking on shifts as needed. Making the most of the opportunities to progress his career, gain qualifications and expand his experiences, Kev is now a manager at one of the homes.  

How did you start working in children’s homes? 

“I started as a relief worker; it was a completely new career change. I hadn’t worked with children before, but there was lots of support and I quickly saw the positive impact you could have in a child’s life.”

What are the opportunities to progress your career?

“There is lots of support available, and opportunities to develop your knowledge and understanding. This includes training around trauma, the impact it can have on the child and how as a worker and a team, we can best support them. As a team, we all have different strengths. There is lots of training available to help you become the best carer possible.”

What do you enjoy most about working in the children’s home?

“I enjoy one to one time with the children for example, board games, walks, day trips, home holidays and generally being there for the children when they most need you.”

What do the children living in the home need from workers?

“All children need stability, someone who is focused on building a caring relationship and making sure they are well cared for. They need someone who will listen to them and be able to act upon their wishes and feelings, this is key to developing warm, trusting, and responsive relationships.”

What would you say to someone thinking of a career in residential children’s care?

“If you have good nurturing skills and you want to help the children achieve their goals, no matter how big or small, this is the role for you."

 

Discover more about what it is like to work in our children's home.

• Residential Care Officer Role
• Reasons to work in our residential children’s homes
• Working in our children's homes: Frequently Asked Questions

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