Jock Retires after 18 years of service at the Cottage

After 18 incredible years of care, commitment, and compassion, one of our much-loved residential childcare workers at The Cottage in Fife is retiring from full-time service. Jock has been a constant and calming presence in the lives of both young people and colleagues alike.

Jock has been part of the heart and soul of The Cottage, working alongside it through many changes. From its early days as a Gladstone House to its journey into becoming an Inspire House, he has remained a steady, reliable, and deeply valued member of the team.

To honour nearly two decades of dedication, Jock kindly shared some reflections on his time in residential childcare, offering insight into a career built on empathy and meaningful connections.

Before joining Inspire, Jock spent several years as a foster carer, where he discovered just how powerful listening, patience, and love could be in helping young people heal and grow. Those same values led him to residential care, where he has continued to make a difference every day.

Over the years, Jock has seen many changes, including new staff, new homes, and an evolving care system throughout Scotland. One change stood out in particular: the shift to digital communication. He admitted, “Computers are not my forte,” but true to his nature, he embraced the change with humility and perseverance.

For Jock, the most important part of the job has always been the young people. The connections he has formed and the stories he has heard have left a lasting mark. “When kids open up to you about their past experiences, it can be very powerful and heart wrenching,” he said. “Being there to support them, to help them work through their feelings, that’s what matters most.”

Through the years, Jock has developed a host of skills that extend well beyond the workplace. One that stands out to him is communication. It is an essential part of building trust and helping young people feel truly heard. “What I’m most proud of is being able to communicate with the young people I work with,”

Of course, the work hasn’t always been easy. Living and working so closely with others brings challenges, but Jock has always led with honesty and care. “Being open and truthful with the young people I work with is one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned,” he reflected.

Although Jock is retiring from full-time work, we are not saying goodbye just yet. “I’m not sure what I’ll be up to but I’ll still be doing relief shifts, so you’re not getting rid of me completely!” That is something we are all very glad to hear.

Before stepping back, Jock offered a few heartfelt words of advice for those thinking about joining Inspire or becoming a residential childcare worker: “Be open-minded, and speak your mind when you feel something’s not right.”

To Jock, we say thank you. Thank you for your kindness and your unwavering support of so many young people over the years. Everyone in the Inspire family wishes you all the best in your retirement