I work in children's residential childcare, where each day we are dedicated to providing care and support for vulnerable children who have faced trauma and adversity. Our roles are multifaceted—we are not just caregivers, but also chefs, cleaners, mentors, advocates, first-aiders, therapists, and psychologists. We attend important children’s hearings, write critical reports, and help shape these young lives for a future where they can thrive independently. Our mission is to prepare the older young people for adulthood, equipping them with the skills to secure jobs, apply for benefits, and find housing.

Despite the important and diverse roles we play, we encounter significant challenges. Many of us face physical and verbal abuse while striving to maintain a calm and reassuring presence for the children in our care. It’s disheartening to work in an environment where this kind of treatment is prevalent, yet we persevere because we are deeply committed to the children’s progress and well-being.

We are calling on government bodies and local authorities to recognize the pivotal work carried out by childcare professionals and to implement measures that ensure our protection and improve our working conditions. This should include the introduction of enhanced training programs focused on conflict resolution and trauma management, better support systems for staff affected by abuse, and increased funding for facilities to improve the quality of care we provide.

Moreover, it is essential that policies are enacted to appropriately staff childcare facilities so that no worker is overwhelmed, helping to ensure both staff and children are safe. Furthermore, increasing wages to reflect the complexity and intensity of our work would go a long way in showing appreciation and retaining talent in this vital field.

With your support, we can bring this to the attention of policymakers to make necessary changes. Please sign this petition to advocate for the rights of childcare workers and ensure a better environment for the vulnerable children we care for. Together, we can make a difference.