Through Our Eyes: Young People Help Train 30 New Essex Residential Workers

Through Our Eyes: Young People Help Train 30 New Essex Residential Workers

Thirty new Essex Residential Support workers recently took part in a unique training experience, delivered in partnership with young people from the Essex Children in Care Council (CiCC) via our training opportunities offered by Essex Social Care Academy . The session challenged participants to see the care system through the eyes of children and young people, placing lived experience at the heart of workforce development.

Rather than focusing solely on policies and procedures, the training explored the emotional impact of the care journey, the importance of meaningful relationships, and how everyday decisions made by professionals can shape young people's lives.

Throughout the day, young people shared their experiences, insights and reflections on what truly makes a difference when living in care. Through real-life examples, interactive discussions and thought-provoking activities, new workers were encouraged to think about the person behind the behaviour and to consider how they can become the trusted adults children need.

One key theme of the training was the importance of relationships. Participants explored how children and young people often remember the small things, understanding and support that help them feel valued and connected. Activities such as the "Circles of Support" exercise and discussions about language and belonging helped workers reflect on the impact they can have in a young person's life.

The training also showcased the wider work of Essex CiCC and their PLUS model or woring, including youth groups, residential experiences, the My Time programme, Junior CiCC, Care Leaver activities and the annual It's My Life Festival. These opportunities have been designed with and for children and young people, ensuring their voices continue to influence services across Essex.

By involving young people directly in the training of new residential workers, Essex continues to demonstrate its commitment to co-production and meaningful participation. Their experiences provide valuable learning that cannot be found in a textbook, helping professionals better understand the realities of growing up in care.

Speaking about the day, one participant reflected that hearing directly from young people helped bring the purpose of the role to life and reinforced the importance of looking beyond behaviour to understand individual experiences and needs.

A huge thank you goes to the young people who helped shape and deliver the session. Their honesty, courage and expertise ensured that the voices of children in care remained at the centre of the learning experience.

As these 30 new workers begin their journey, they do so with a deeper understanding of what children and young people need most: people who listen, care, and are willing to see the world through their eyes.