Life-changing people
Discover real-life career journeys from members of the East Midlands Children’s Residential Workforce
Suanne
Suanne started her career working in children's residential homes over 20 years ago. Her experience enabled her to progress through a range of rewarding roles all the way up to Director of Early Help & Children’s Social Care at Derby City Council.
Daniel
As a child, Daniel lived in a care home, and when he saw how the staff supported and encouraged each other, he was inspired to study Health & Social Care himself. Now, he has started a profoundly fulfilling career as a Residential Support Worker, making a real difference in young people's lives.
Chris
Chris was inspired to work in children's homes when a friend suggested he had exactly the right personality for the job. He began working in Leicester's residential care homes in 2020 and highly recommends such a role for anyone who has a passion for supporting young people.
Katie
Katie began working in children's residential care in 2011 as a relief worker. She progressed through her career to become Homes Manager in 2021 and is now Service Lead. She highly recommends a career in residential care; seeing a child make even the smallest steps towards a positive future makes it so worthwhile.
Grant
Grant started his career as a Residential Support Worker and subsequently completed a Level 4 Diploma in Residential Childcare. Now, he is a Residential Practitioner, with a passion for working with young people. His role allows him to develop relationships with hard-to-reach young people and pass on his experiences to help them develop their skills.
Jane
Jane is an Assistant Unit Manager at Nottingham's short breaks home. She supports children and young people who have complex needs and disabilities and works closely with families, educational providers and health professionals. In her role, no two days the same, and she feels empowered to make choices which support and enrich children's, young people's and their families' lives.
Chris-Ann
Having completed a placement in 2019 teaching English as a second language to children and young people with special educational needs, Chris-Ann decided that she wanted a career working with children and their families. Now, she is a Child Residential Social Care Worker, helping inspire children and young people to develop into well-rounded and confident individuals.
Charlotte
Charlotte began her career as a nursery nurse but soon began volunteering at Nottingham's short breaks service, which later led to a permanent role. Charlotte works with some of the most vulnerable children within the city with a wide range of disabilities, medical needs and behaviours that challenge. No one day is the same, and the job never gets boring!