A closer look at HR in action at Next Stage
When people think about social care, they often picture the frontline, the amazing teams delivering support day in and day out, but behind every great support team is a strong foundation, and that’s where people like Sally come in.
As our Senior HR Administrator, Sally plays a crucial role in ensuring our workforce is supported, safe, and well-prepared to deliver high-quality care and support. Her work might not always be visible, but it’s vital to the smooth running of Next Stage ‘A Way Forward’ Ltd.
What does a typical day look like in HR?
Sally’s days are a flurry of planning, checking, organising and supporting, all with one aim in mind: getting new starters ready and ensuring employees across the organisation have the HR support they need.
“My focus is getting new employees ready to join the team. I complete their recruitment checks and make sure everything’s in place for a smooth start,” Sally explains. “I’m also involved in supporting HR queries and joining meetings across different teams.”
Being highly organised is essential, especially when the unexpected happens. “If something crops up that I wasn’t expecting, I always check my diary and notes. They’re what keep me on track.”
Celebrating the everyday wins
Success in HR isn’t always flashy, but that doesn’t make it any less important.
“For me, every induction confirmed is a success. It means I’ve done my job and helped bring someone new into our amazing team,” says Sally.
And those moments when everything gets ticked off the to-do list? “That’s a rare but brilliant feeling, knowing I’ve done everything to the best of my ability.”
Living our values every day
At Next Stage, our values are more than just words. Sally’s work reflects them in action:
- Teamwork – “Even though our HR team is small, we’re part of a bigger picture. We work closely with the wider Central Services team, and everything we do links together.”
- Excellence and Quality – “Every task needs to be completed to a high standard. Without quality, nothing works properly.”
- Resilience – “Not everything in HR is smooth sailing. Some outcomes are difficult. You’ve got to be able to bounce back.”
- Inspire – “There’s a misconception that HR is only around when something’s gone wrong. I believe we can help change that view. We’re here to support and show that HR can be positive, empowering, and inspiring.”
- Everyone Matters – “Everyone deserves to feel supported and valued. In HR, we make sure everyone is treated fairly and with respect, because every single person plays a part in making Next Stage what it is.”
A team that laughs together
Motivation doesn’t always come from formal meetings or team-building days. Sometimes, it comes from simply enjoying the people you work with.
“There isn’t a day we don’t laugh about something,” says Sally. “It might sound rare, but honestly, that laughter keeps us going. We keep each other motivated just by being there for one another.”
Staying ahead through training and development
Sally and her team don’t stand still. They’re committed to learning and growth, not just for themselves, but for the benefit of everyone at Next Stage.
“We’ve all completed qualifications through apprenticeships, and we regularly attend webinars and sessions that help us stay sharp in our roles.”
The team also stays up to date with legislation and best practice guidance from CIPD, CQC and Ofsted to make sure their work reflects the latest standards in the sector.
Looking to the future
Sally’s goals are simple but powerful:
“I just want to see Next Stage continue to grow. We’re doing great things and I want to keep being part of that.”
Want to join a team where every role matters?
Find out more about working with Next Stage – A Way Forward by getting in touch with our team here.
