Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am a Registered Childcare Worker and have now been at Orchard House for almost 9 months.
What inspired you to become a Residential Childcare Worker?
I turned 50 and decided to investigate working with children, as I have always wanted to but my background in care had been domiciliary care.
I discovered I could qualify whilst working and that I did not need to find the funds to fund the apprenticeship and diploma. So, I like a challenge and chose to follow my heart and take the plunge.
I can honestly say, whilst a big leap of faith at 50, it was one of the best moves I have ever made. Conveniently, having provided a lot of specialist care areas in domiciliary, there have been many cross overs which have aided me in settling in quickly.
It is as rewarding as I thought it would be. It is a pleasure to work with our children and at Orchard House.
Why did you choose to work for West Sussex?
West Sussex have a good reputation. They provide more security in employment than many, a career path for those who want it and they are a local provider.
What is the best thing about being a Residential Childcare Worker?
It is incredibly rewarding. Seeing the smiles on the children and young person's faces, building bonds with them and seeing them progress.
What do you particularly enjoy about working in the Children’s Residential team?
I have never worked with a team who have made me feel part of them so quickly, or so well supported and appreciated as our team have at Orchard House.
Within this role you meet so many different personalities among the team and the children.
As a team, we have a great team spirit and are more like a family. The children have their individual challenges in life, in varying forms, and we constantly adapt to their changing needs, which makes no two days the same, or sometimes, no two minutes the same.
There is an incredibly good structure in place which we use as our base point enabling us to make on the go quick adaptions as required. This makes the role interesting, varied and, whilst at times it can be challenging, it is incredibly rewarding.
How does West Sussex, particularly Children, Young People and Learning, support you to develop and progress?
The induction and ongoing training are one of the best I have ever come across. I came in from a care background with transferable knowledge and skills, however the knowledge and insight I pick up from working alongside my very experienced colleagues, day to day, is invaluable and always readily available.