Inspirational career journey leads to deputy manager appointment at Consett children’s home

Jessica Storey has been appointed as deputy manager at East Farm House in Consett, part of Salutem Care and Education, marking a milestone in her career journey within the organisation.

She joined Salutem in September 2024 as a support worker, transitioning from a background in education where she supported children with special educational needs and challenging behaviour. Within just 12 months, her passion, dedication, and commitment to personal growth have seen her progress rapidly to deputy manager.

Reflecting on her journey, Jessica said: “This job has truly changed my life. When I first joined Salutem, I was unsure of what I was good at or where I belonged. With the support of my manager, colleagues, and the training opportunities offered through Salutem, I’ve developed confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging. The most rewarding part is working alongside the incredible young people at East Farm, they are the reason I come to work every day. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited for what’s ahead.”

Jessica’s development has been supported by meaningful supervisions, team encouragement, and leadership training through Salutem’s Supervision Toolkit and Aspire Programme. These initiatives are designed to help colleagues grow, lead with confidence, and achieve their professional goals.

John Godden, chief executive of Salutem Care and Education, said: “Jessica’s journey is a fantastic example of what is possible with the right support, training, and belief in your own potential. At Salutem, we are passionate about providing opportunities for our colleagues to thrive and progress their careers. Jessica embodies the values of our organisation and demonstrates the incredible impact that our development programmes can have, both for individuals and for the young people they support.”