Deborah Girdler

• Assisted in the establishment of a series of magazines and newspapers for distribution in Plymouth and further afield

• Provided graphic design support when necessary

• Participated in the development of a long term advertising and publishing strategies

• Assisted with sales and admin when required

• Proof reading for the editors of the company's various publications

• Worked closely with other professionals involved in child and young people's welfare; improving collaborative efforts towards child’s wellbeing.
• Supported the transition of children into new homes, easing their adaptation process.
• Promoted a positive image of fostering within the community; raising awareness about the importance of foster caring.
• Provided around-the-clock support during emergencies or crises; offering immediate help when needed.
• Navigated complex emotional situations with empathy and patience, aiding in conflict resolution.
• Managed medical appointments and health needs of children, ensuring proper physical health.
• Encouraged positive behaviours through structured routine and clear boundaries, fostering personal growth.
• Delivered consistent care whilst managing challenging behaviour to ensure stability within the household.
• Maintained a safe and nurturing living environment, promoting a sense of security.
• Attended training courses to better understand and address unique needs of foster children.
• Coordinated with school/college staff regarding child's progress, enhancing academic performance.
• Built strong relationships with birth families where appropriate, strengthening family ties.
• Tracked and recorded child's progress for review by social services team, contributing to overall care strategy.
• Comforted children during times of crisis to provide security and safety measures.
• Encouraged children to express views and opinions to increase confidence and openess.
• Advocated for social, emotional and educational stability of children with complex emotional and behavioural needs.
• Established working relationships with community resources, teachers and health and social work professionals to meet children's development needs.
• Taught socially acceptable ways to behave and communicate, reinforcing appropriate behaviours through trauma-informed care.
• Participated in community events and activities to encourage regular interaction for more stability.
• Supervised contact arrangements to oversee smooth process.
• Attended therapy appointments and implemented advised strategies to enhance care.

• Developed personnel policies for secretarial and admin staff
• Managed recruitment processes for successful team-building.
• Introduced DTP capability across three offices
• Implemented efficient filing systems, improving document accessibility.
• Oversaw staff schedules, ensuring coverage at all times.
• Coordinated training programmes for enhanced skills development.
• Advised senior management on employee corrective actions.

• Served foods and beverages.
• Worked behind bars.
• International travel.

• Managed cash transactions for efficient daily operations.
• Implemented security measures for the protection of sensitive client information.
• Resolved customer queries with timely and accurate information.
• Travelled to various branches on relief team across four counties with duties ranging from Cashier, Supervisor, PA to Manager.