Meet Chris

Residential Practitioner, Leicester City

I began working with Leicester City Council residential homes in January 2020. Before working for LCC, I was self-employed teaching children in primary schools. Having not been in care myself I was new to the experience of supporting Looked After Children.

My inspiration to work in a children’s home came after I was advised by a close friend that my personality would be beneficial for a residential setting. They encouraged me to apply for the role of Support Worker.

Having started during the Covid-19 pandemic and being classed as a keyworker meant that my time working with the young children was a completely different environment, for the young people, staff and public. On reflection, this advanced my development with caring for young people as government guidelines consistently changed, forcing all staff, young people and public to follow the guidelines effectively. During the challenging period, I took pride in being a keyworker looking after our young people and it was evident from the young people’s response that they appreciated the commitment from staff.

Working with Leicester City council for the past 6 years has also allowed me to gain further qualifications. Having been a support worker for 3 years, it was identified by managers that I will be suitable for the role as a Practitioner within Leicester City council homes. As a result, I was guided by colleagues including managers for the interview process, which self admittedly is not my strongest asset. However, after a successful interview I gained the promotion which further allowed me to gain more knowledge and experience in other residential homes within the service. I found working at different homes a fantastic experience where I can support other Looked After Children and meet colleagues who have more experience, less experience and learn from everyone.

I am now at a stage where the managers have identified myself to gain a further promotion to assistant manager where I am currently undergoing the training for the interview. Successful or not Leicester City Council has proven to me that they are willing to educate and promote its own staff members. Everyday is different working within Leicester City council, giving the young people to experience the best possible life.