Zara Doorbar
Derby,Derbyshire
Summary
- Psychology graduate with a First Class BSc in Psychology and a Master of Research (MRes) in Psychology from the University of Derby.
- Strong academic background in research methods, critical analysis, and academic writing, developed through postgraduate research training.
- Research interests include parapsychology, mental health, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), trauma, Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD), and behavioural development in children and young people.
- Over 13 years of professional experience supporting children and young people with ASD and EBD within social care settings.
- Combines research knowledge with extensive applied experience in trauma, bereavement, child development, and psychological wellbeing.
- Experienced in translating psychological theory and evidence-based practice into real-world support for vulnerable populations and improving outcomes for children and young people.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work history
Regional Manager
Rite Directions
2018.02 - 2018.05
- Oversee the operational management of multiple 16+ supported accommodation services, ensuring high-quality care, safeguarding, and compliance with relevant legislation and standards.
- Lead, supervise, and support service managers and support staff, providing performance management, mentoring, and professional development.
- Ensure services operate in line with regulatory requirements, local authority contracts, and safeguarding legislation.
- Develop and maintain strong partnerships with local authorities, social workers, and external agencies to support positive outcomes for young people.
- Monitor service performance through KPIs, audits, and quality assurance frameworks, implementing improvements where necessary.
- Manage regional budgets, ensuring effective financial control, cost efficiency, and resource allocation.
- Oversee the placement matching process to ensure young people are placed in appropriate accommodation that meets their individual needs.
- Lead safeguarding practices, ensuring all staff follow robust procedures to protect vulnerable young people.
- Handle escalated incidents, complaints, and safeguarding concerns, ensuring appropriate investigation and resolution.
- Support the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and service improvements across the region.
- Conduct regular service visits, audits, and compliance checks to maintain high standards of care and accommodation.
- Contribute to business growth, including supporting tenders, new service mobilisation, and relationship building with commissioners.
Registered Manager
Acorn
2015.12 - 2017.10
- Hold full responsibility for the day-to-day management of a children’s residential home, ensuring high standards of care, safeguarding, and compliance with regulations.
- Ensure the home operates in line with Ofsted regulations, the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015, and the Quality Standards for Children’s Homes.
- Lead, supervise, and develop a team of residential support workers through regular supervision, training, and performance management.
- Promote a safe, nurturing, and therapeutic environment that supports the emotional, social, and behavioural development of children and young people.
- Develop and implement individual care plans, risk assessments, and behaviour management strategies tailored to each child’s needs.
- Ensure effective safeguarding practices, responding appropriately to incidents, allegations, and concerns in line with safeguarding procedures.
- Manage referrals and placement planning, ensuring appropriate matching and positive outcomes for young people.
- Build strong partnerships with social workers, local authorities, education providers, and external professionals to support holistic care planning.
- Monitor and maintain high standards through internal audits, Regulation 44 visits, and quality assurance processes.
- Oversee the home’s budget, staffing levels, and resources, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery.
- Maintain accurate and compliant record keeping, reporting, and documentation in line with regulatory requirements.
- Lead the home through Ofsted inspections, ensuring readiness and continuous service improvement.
House Manager
Priory Education
2007.06 - 2015.12
- Support the day-to-day running of a residential children’s home for young people with autism and complex needs, ensuring a safe, structured, and supportive environment.
- Lead and supervise residential support staff on shift, providing guidance, delegation of duties, and ensuring high standards of care are maintained.
- Implement person-centred care plans tailored to the individual needs, communication styles, and routines of children with autism.
- Support young people with daily living skills, emotional regulation, social development, and independence.
- Ensure effective safeguarding practices are followed at all times to protect the welfare and wellbeing of children and young people.
- Manage shift planning, staff rotas, and daily operational tasks to ensure appropriate staffing levels and smooth service delivery.
- Maintain accurate records, including daily logs, incident reports, behaviour monitoring, and care documentation.
- Work collaboratively with families, social workers, education providers, and healthcare professionals to support consistent care.
- Support the implementation of behaviour support strategies, promoting positive behaviour and reducing incidents.
- Conduct regular house checks, health and safety monitoring, and risk assessments to ensure a safe living environment.
- Provide mentoring and on-the-job support to new or junior staff members.
- Assist senior management with service improvements, staff training, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.
Education
MRes - Psychology
University of Derby
09/2023 - 08/2024
Degree - Psychology
University of Derby
9 2018 - 7 2021
A level studies - English Lit C, Sociology D, Biology E
Wolgarston High School 6th Form College
9 2002 - 8 2004
GCSE studies - English B, Maths C, ICT C, Science C, Religious Studies C, Food Technology B, Child Development B, French C
Wolgarston High School
9 1999 - 8 2002
Skills
- Research Methods: Strong understanding of qualitative and quantitative psychological research methods developed through a First Class BSc in Psychology and current MRes study
- Critical Analysis: Skilled in literature review, academic writing, and critical evaluation of psychological research and theory
- Psychological Knowledge: Strong grounding in developmental psychology, trauma, bereavement, and mental health in young people
- Applied Insight: Over 13 years’ professional experience in social care supporting children and young people with ASD and EBD, providing valuable real-world context for research
- Communication: Confident communicator with strong academic writing, presentation, and professional reporting skills
- Leadership & Organisation: Experienced in managing complex responsibilities, demonstrating strong organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
EVIDENCE OF SUCCESSFUL PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT
- “She came into the post after a period of instability and uncertainty for staff and young people with regard to the management of the service. The positive experiences and progress of young people is evidence of her ability to provide the clear leadership and guidance that is required to meet their needs and deliver a good service.”
- “The manager is highly proactive, methodical and child focused. She has a calm, measured approach to her work and is fully aware of what is happening to young people and staff within the home at all times. Since the last inspection, she has made significant changes to the home and to staff morale and confidence. The home is organised and well run, enabling the staff to focus on the young people.”
Accomplishments
University Achievements
- Master of Research (MRes) in Psychology, University of Derby
- Programme Leader’s Award for outstanding achievement, Master of Research (MRes) in Psychology, University of Derby
- First Class Honours Degree in Psychology, University of Derby (2021)
- Student Representative for the Undergraduate Psychology Programme, advocating for student experience and academic engagement
- Student Representative for the Master of Research (MRes) Psychology Programme, contributing to academic feedback and programme development
Professional Achievements
Successfully registered with Ofsted as a Registered Manager for a children’s residential service, demonstrating leadership and regulatory competence
- Led service improvements resulting in an “Improved Effectiveness” outcome during Ofsted inspection
- Achieved a “Good” Ofsted inspection rating through service development, staff leadership, and improved outcomes for young people
- Progressed to senior leadership positions within residential social care, including House Manager, Registered Manager and Regional Manager
Professional Development
- Ongoing engagement with emerging research in psychology, particularly in areas of parapsychology, mental health, neurodevelopmental conditions, and trauma.
- Continued development of knowledge relating to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD) in children and young people.
- Interest in the application of psychological research to improve outcomes for vulnerable populations within social care and community settings.
- Commitment to professional learning through academic literature, research engagement, and reflective practice.
Timeline
Regional Manager
Rite Directions
2018.02 - 2018.05
Registered Manager
Acorn
2015.12 - 2017.10
House Manager
Priory Education
2007.06 - 2015.12
MRes - Psychology
University of Derby
09/2023 - 08/2024
Degree - Psychology
University of Derby
9 2018 - 7 2021
A level studies - English Lit C, Sociology D, Biology E
Wolgarston High School 6th Form College
9 2002 - 8 2004
GCSE studies - English B, Maths C, ICT C, Science C, Religious Studies C, Food Technology B, Child Development B, French C
Wolgarston High School
9 1999 - 8 2002