A day in the life of a child support worker at Nexus Fostering Nottingham
Date published
05 March 2026
05 March 2026
Hi, I’m Suzanna, a Child and Young Person Support Worker based at the Nexus Fostering East Midlands office in Nottingham. My role involves supporting children and young people living with foster carers who receive additional support through either a Care Plus Package or the Nexus 360 Package, depending on the level of support they need.
Working in foster care support means no two days are the same, which is one of the things I enjoy most about my job.
My day might start with some admin before heading out to meet the children and young people I support. Sometimes I attend meetings with the child, their foster carers, or professionals involved in their care. On other days, we spend time together doing activities they enjoy.
This might include going horse riding, visiting the park, taking part in fun learning activities, or simply spending time together doing something that helps them feel relaxed and supported. These moments are incredibly important for building confidence and helping children feel safe.
One of the most important parts of my role is building trust with children and young people in foster care.
I do this by getting to know them through play and activities, but most importantly by listening to them. Creating a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves is essential.
Sometimes children just need someone who will listen and help them work through difficult emotions or experiences. Being able to provide that space for them can make a huge difference.
Seeing the progress children make, even the smallest steps, is incredibly rewarding. Watching their confidence grow, hearing their laughter during our sessions, and seeing the trust they build over time means so much.
The smiles they bring and the conversations we share are some of the most meaningful parts of my role.
As a Child and Young Person Support Worker, I work closely with supervising social workers, local authorities, the therapeutic team, foster carers and other professionals involved in supporting children.
I like to think of my role as helping to amplify the voice of the child or young person. If they have questions, worries or concerns, I want them to feel comfortable sharing those with me.
I can then bring those thoughts to the wider team so we can make sure they receive the answers, support and guidance they deserve.
Helping children feel heard and understood is a really important part of supporting positive outcomes in foster care.
Through my work supporting children and foster families, I’ve seen first-hand the qualities that make a great foster carer.
It’s important to remember that behaviour is often a form of communication. Foster carers need patience, understanding and the ability to remain calm and supportive.
Children benefit from carers who create a safe and nurturing environment where they can express themselves freely. Being playful, positive and encouraging can make a big difference in helping children feel secure.
Giving children time, space and reassurance helps them build independence and confidence as they grow.
Most importantly, foster carers are there for children through the ups and downs, offering stability and care while allowing them the freedom to explore who they are and simply be themselves.
At Nexus Fostering Nottingham, we are always looking for compassionate people who want to make a difference in the lives of children and young people.
We are currently recruiting foster carers across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire and Leicestershire. Our experienced team provides full training, ongoing professional support and guidance throughout your fostering journey.
Fostering can be one of the most rewarding ways to support children who need safe, stable homes.
If you have ever considered becoming a foster carer in Nottingham, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire or Leicestershire, our team would love to hear from you.
Fostering insights
05 March 2026
