The Growth Company is proud to work with the Social Care Services Group, where providing high-quality care for vulnerable children is at the heart of everything they do. From just four children’s homes 21 years ago, they are set to open their 14th home this year. With plans to expand further, staffing and development have never been more important.
Jim Brown, who has worked at Social Care Services for over two decades, oversees recruitment and training across the company. He’s passionate about finding the right people for the right roles, often prioritising potential over experience:
“I’ve done thousands of interviews over the years, and sometimes no experience is more valuable than experience. You can train policies and procedures, but you can’t teach someone how to care, show resilience, or think on their feet.”
This approach makes apprenticeships an essential part of their workforce strategy. Social Care Services partners with the Growth Company to deliver the Children, Young People and Families Practitioner Level 4 apprenticeships in residential childcare, giving staff the knowledge, confidence, and qualifications they need to thrive:
-
Apprenticeships help staff build professional skills while working hands-on with children.
-
They improve retention, ensuring a consistent, capable team across Social Care Services Ltd homes.
-
Government funding makes high-quality training accessible, supporting both the business and the staff.
Jim reflects on the difference apprenticeships make:
“It’s not just about meeting legal or Ofsted requirements, it’s about giving staff the confidence and pride in what they do. Passing their qualifications is a huge achievement, and it helps them feel valued and supported. Charlie and the team at the Growth Company have been brilliant, they guide us through the process and make sure our staff get the support they need to succeed.”
Charlie Bruce, Delivery Manager at the Growth Company, adds:
“Social Care Services really understand the value of apprenticeships. By investing in their people, they’re not just meeting industry standards, they’re shaping a workforce that delivers consistent, high-quality care for children.”
With over 75 apprentices trained so far, Social Care Services continues to grow its skilled workforce across Greater Manchester. Jim highlights the importance of practical, realistic training:
“We’d love to design a qualification ourselves – one that reflects the reality of the job. But even with the current Level 4, our staff gain the skills they need to provide the best care.”
For anyone considering a career in residential childcare, Jim’s advice is clear: potential, dedication, and a caring nature matter more than experience. Apprenticeships offer a pathway to a rewarding career, hands-on development, and the opportunity to make a real difference in young lives.