Celebrating National Career Development Month at Making Space

Published 1 November 2024

November isn’t just about chilly autumn breezes and cosy evenings – it's officially National Career Development Month! Join us at Making Space as we celebrate our people and the importance of career planning, and supporting professional development and achieving goals.

Making Space Associate Director of People, Tom Cruse, said:

"At Making Space, our commitment to people, professional development, and wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to have achieved the prestigious Gold-level Investors in People (IIP) accreditation in 2023 after maintaining Silver since 2014. We believe in creating an environment where our people feel valued, recognised, and empowered to grow in their careers. Almost two-thirds of senior posts at Making Space are filled through internal promotions! We believe in rewarding talent and providing clear progression paths, alongside flexible working practices, to ensure our colleagues can thrive both personally and professionally.

“We are proud of our values-led approach, which is embraced by 96% of our team, and our dedication to equality, diversity, and inclusion through initiatives like our equality forum. Our leadership fosters a truly positive, inclusive culture where collaboration, co-production, and innovation are central to how we work.

“Our 2024-2029 strategic plan reinforces our commitment to creating a welcoming, supportive workplace where professional growth and wellbeing go hand in hand. At Making Space, we don’t just want to be a good employer, we want to set the standard for excellence in the health and social care sector."

At Making Space, we actively encourage professional development by providing our people with the opportunities to grow and succeed, allowing them to make a lasting impact in their roles. All colleagues are supported to undertake the Level 2 qualification in Adult Care, which can be completed during work hours and is open to team members at all levels. This free, nationally recognised qualification not only enhances skills but also serves as a stepping stone for career progression.

Chloe's career journey at Making Space
As part of Career Development Month, we’re highlighting the career journey of Chloe, who joined Making Space in 2021 as a Mental Health Support Worker. At just 26 years old, Chloe has advanced to the role of Service Manager, overseeing three Supported Living services. Her story demonstrates the incredible growth opportunities available at Making Space for those who are eager to learn and develop their skills. Chloe said:

“Making Space offers so many opportunities for growth, and the support is there every step of the way. If you're eager to learn and advance, don’t be afraid to take on new challenges – the rewards are worth it.”

Read more about Chloe's story here.

Anna Evans, Learning and Development Manager at Making Space, added:

“We are dedicated to creating an environment where our learners and apprentices feel fully supported in their professional development and can confidently take the next step in their careers. As the environment evolves, we ensure our training programs stay up-to-date and relevant.

“We are particularly excited to launch the new Community Health & Wellbeing Worker apprenticeship, which aims to equip individuals with the skills needed to build strong community connections, helping people develop their own support networks within their local communities. With ongoing enrolment in partnership with a new provider, this apprenticeship is particularly suited for services in the Community Division where the Adult Care pathway may not apply. It covers important topics like preventative health measures and guidance on local services that support health and wellbeing.”

If you are ready to make a real difference in people’s lives whilst enjoying a work environment where you are truly valued? Then join us at Making Space! Explore rewarding career opportunities here.