Working within the residential sector is both challenging yet rewarding, the significance of therapeutic care extends beyond the well-being of the young people we work it—it also significantly impacts the staff who provide the support. Therapeutic care plays a huge role in nurturing the resilience and overall wellness of the staff. This blog highlights the multifaceted benefits of therapeutic care for the home staff, discussing burnout, supporting work culture, and enhancing job satisfaction.
Reducing Burnout
Working in a children's residential home can be emotionally demanding, especially when dealing with young people who display complex needs and trauma-related behaviours. However, therapeutic care models include strategies for staff self-care and resilience-building. Research has constantly demonstrated the benefits of implementing self-care practices, such as mindfulness and reflective supervision, on significantly reduce burnout among residential care staff (Graham and Killick, 2019). By prioritising the well-being of staff, therapeutic care helps maintain a healthier and more sustainable work environment (McFarland and Hlubocky, 2021).
Enhancing Relationship Building
Strong, supportive relationships between staff and children are at the heart of effective therapeutic care. Through training in therapeutic techniques and approaches, such as the PACE model (Ayling and Satringer, 2013), staff members develop a deeper understanding of the children’s needs and behaviours. This fosters trust and rapport, laying the foundation for meaningful connections.
Creating a Supportive Work Culture
A culture of care and support within the workplace is essential for staff well-being and job satisfaction. Therapeutic care models emphasise teamwork, collaboration, and mutual support among staff members. By fostering a sense of community and belonging, these initiatives help combat feelings of isolation and promote a more positive work environment.
Improving Overall Job Satisfaction: Ultimately, when staff members feel valued, supported, and equipped to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children they serve, job satisfaction soars . Research conducted by the UK’s Institute for Employment Studies has shown that staff who feel a sense of purpose and fulfilment in their work are more likely to remain in their positions long-term, leading to greater continuity of care for the children.
Therapeutic care is about giving the staff the tools they need to handle the ups and downs of their work, from tough situations to forming genuine bonds with the young people. By fostering a culture of support and understanding, therapeutic care isn't just for the young people – it lifts the spirits of the staff as well. It's a win-win scenario that leaves everyone feeling fulfilled and ready to make a genuine impact in the lives of those they care for.
References
Graham, A. and Killick, C., 2019. Developing team resilience to prevent burnout in statutory residential care. Scottish Journal of Residential Child Care, 18(3), pp.1-28.
McFarland, D.C. and Hlubocky, F., 2021. Therapeutic strategies to tackle burnout and emotional exhaustion in frontline medical staff: narrative review. Psychology research and behavior management, pp.1429-1436.
Ayling, P. and Stringer, B., 2013. Supporting carer–child relationships through play: a model for teaching carers how to use play skills to strengthen attachment relationships. Adoption & Fostering, 37(2), pp.130-143.
Read More: Services for Young People
Read More: Children’s Psychology - Residential homes
Brought to you by: Children’s Psychology Service’s