Karolina, Residential Childcare Manager

My professional journey began in Poland with a strong desire to become a Police Officer. Unfortunately, I failed the medical examination due to my eyesight, which meant I couldn’t pursue that path.

I was disappointed, but I didn’t give up. Instead, I chose to study Business Administration, which helped me develop resilience and adaptability - qualities that would later prove essential in my career.

As I was finishing university, I decided to travel and visited my sister who lived in Wales. That visit changed everything. I was deeply moved by the landscape, the warmth of the people, and the richness of Welsh culture. I felt a strong connection to the country and decided to stay. I found a job in a local care home in Llandovery, and that’s where my journey into social care truly began.

Working in care opened my eyes to the importance of Welsh culture, especially in how we support people. I wanted to show respect and integrate fully, so I began learning the Welsh language. It was a personal commitment to honour the values and traditions that are so vital in Welsh life.

I quickly fell in love with the care profession. Over the years, I’ve worked in various areas of social care, including mental health services and support for individuals with learning disabilities. These experiences helped me realise that this is where I truly thrive - both professionally and personally.

Today, I work as the Residential Childcare Manager in a two-bedroom residential children’s home, supporting young people aged 8 to 18 who are subject to care orders. This role has challenged me to learn and apply specialised legislation, policies, and safeguarding procedures that are very different from those in adult care. I’ve developed a deep understanding of the rights of children and young people, and I’m passionate about using a person-centred approach to support their education, health, emotional wellbeing, and future planning.

If you’re thinking about working in social care or want to develop your practice, here’s my advice:

• Understand the framework: Take time to learn the relevant legislation, policy, and safeguarding protocols.
• Stay informed: Keep your practice up to date through training, reflection, and continuous learning.
• Support your team: Build a strong team culture by conducting debriefs, offering emotional support, and encouraging open communication.

In my experience, the following qualities are essential for anyone working in care:

• Calmness and patience: these are vital when dealing with emotionally charged or complex situations.
• Resilience and trauma-informed practice: understand the impact of trauma and respond with empathy and strength.
• Effective communication: be a good listener and communicate clearly with both colleagues and the people you support.
• Professional boundaries: maintain respectful and appropriate relationships, especially when working with children and young people.

Unit one: Human Growth, Development and Wellbeing – understanding how culture and identity influence care.

Unit two: Health and Social Care, and Childcare Principles and Values – focus on safeguarding, legislation, and rights of children.

Unit two – Principles of care and childcare, including promoting independence and choice.

Unit two – Values of care, communication, and professional boundaries.

1. How does Karolina’s journey demonstrate the importance of cultural awareness in health and social care settings?
2. What legislation and safeguarding responsibilities would Karolina need to understand when working in a residential children’s home?
3. Why is a person-centred approach important in planning for the future of children and young people in care?
4. What skills and personal qualities does Karolina demonstrate that are essential for working in social care? How do these relate to professional practice?