An insight into working as a Residential Childcare Worker, by Kayleigh Connor

Working in the care sector has always been something that I knew I wanted and needed to do. For me, there is nothing more satisfying than coming into work every day and being able to work with our young people. Some of whom may not have been fortunate enough to have had the childhood that everyone has the right to experience. I love interacting and building positive relationships with our young people. My favourite part of the job is being given the opportunity to be an active part of their lives and being able to encourage and watch them succeed, and to celebrate their successes with them.

I have a young family and my son is on the autistic spectrum. I was able to witness, as a parent the work and commitment that went into ensuring my sons needs were met at every age and stage. I’ve seen the positive impact that successful multi-disciplinary working can have on an individual’s outcomes and this was my motivation to go to college and complete the HNC in Social Services and apply for a job in Residential Childcare. This has enabled me to become part of a team who put the young person at the centre of everything that they do.

Inspire Scotland provide an induction and training programme which has assisted me with my personal development and has given me a greater understanding of Residential Care. I have also just completed the SVQ Level 3 which was arranged by the company. I am now a fully qualified member of the team.

My job is to encourage, nurture, respect and care for the young people, in all aspects of their daily lives. On a daily basis this includes; adhering to individual routines, school runs, preparing meals, supporting and facilitating contact with family members, going on outings, working on care plans, acting as an advocate for our young people and ensuring that they are able to have fun and make positive memories whilst they are in our care.

A successful Residential Childcare Worker should be trustworthy, dependable, sincere, understanding and resilient. Our young people need to know that they can rely and depend on every staff member to guide, support and keep them safe during challenging times but also to encourage and celebrate even the smallest of achievements for them.

Working as a Residential Childcare Worker can be challenging at times. Some of our young people require physical and emotional support during times of crisis which can be difficult. However, the biggest rewards come from knowing that you are part of a tight knit, experienced team who work together in order to keep the young person safe and well.