Dorset Youth Practitioners innovative training in Therapeutic Childcare

Children in Dorset who have experienced early-life trauma are set to receive enhanced therapeutic care, thanks to youth practitioners from The Harbour who completed an innovative Level 4 Certificate in Therapeutic Childcare.  

This achievement brings the total to 26 highly trained professionals, after the successful qualification of 10 new practitioners, which now includes staff supporting our children with learning disabilities or complex needs.  

The youth practitioners’ role is to support young people, particularly those in care or on the edge of care, by assisting them in daily tasks, accompanying them to activities that support their physical and mental wellbeing and developing their skills and confidence so they can thrive.  

Many practitioners step into a parental role, providing consistent care and stability that builds positive relationships with the young people they care for. 

This Level 4 course, developed by The Mulberry Bush in partnership with Dorset Council, goes above the standard requirements for youth practitioners and has been recognised for its impact on career development, with five individuals from the first cohort promoted to senior roles.  

The program has been shortlisted for the CYP Now Workforce Development Award 2024. 

It’s a 12-month, in-person program that includes two residential retreats, allowing practitioners to bond as a team and engage deeply with therapeutic practice.  

Louise Drury, Head of Service for Children in Care , Dorset Council, said: “It is a privilege to celebrate the incredible achievements of our residential colleagues who have excelled in their Level 4 qualification in Therapeutic Childcare.  

“We see their daily kindness and dedication to young people in challenging circumstances.” 

Victoria Phair, Therapeutic Training and Support Lead at The Mulberry Bush said: “Being shortlisted for the CYP Now Workforce Development Award 2024 is a tremendous honour.” 

“Our entry shared our journey with Dorset in developing the Level 4 training and the positive impact it is already having. We’re very proud of the recognition.” 

Clare Sutton, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education, and Skills, emphasised the importance of this effort: “Ensuring young people receive help exactly when they need it is one of our top priorities. I'm deeply grateful to those who dedicated their time to complete this course and demonstrated their commitment to providing the highest level of care to some of Dorset's most vulnerable children.”