We are New Directions, a local organisation established in 1951 by local parents of children with learning disabilities who wanted to see improved services and facilities. What began as a humble venture has grown into a leading charity providing essential support including supported living, residential care, respite, and day opportunity services. All within the heart of Rugby, New Directions Rugby stands as a testament to the power of community and commitment.
We take immense pride in fostering a genuine sense of family across our entire organisation, providing support and care for our employees as well as the individuals we support daily. This commitment reflects our belief in the importance of nurturing not only the well-being of those we support but also the professional growth and fulfilment of our dedicated staff.
Our most recent training session held by John Weekes, our Learning and Development Manager, was a “Communicating with Signs” training programme. You can read more about that here.
Our supported living services have experienced significant expansion in recent years, emphasising our dedication to adapting and meeting the evolving needs of the community as we provide . We are continually developing and shaping our services to meet local needs and over the last year we have built our new residential care home. Daisy Court opened its doors in January 2024, further enhancing our capacity to support individuals across Rugby.
What makes us an appealing employer is the breadth of services we offer, creating opportunities for employees to diversify their skills and knowledge. The dynamic nature of our organisation enables staff to transition between different services, providing the opportunity to continually grow and progress in their careers.
Our organisation is all about family and longevity, with some staff members proudly boasting over 30 years of service. This longevity speaks volumes about the workplace culture and the meaningful connections formed within the organisation. The genuine warmth and camaraderie among staff contribute to a workplace where everyone is working together towards a shared goal: making a positive difference in the lives of those they support.
We are committed to investing in the development of our staff with ten of our employees working towards apprenticeship qualifications ranging from level 2 to level 5 in adult social care, with a focus of learning on the job. This approach allows our staff to gain practical skills not typically found in a classroom setting. The additional support from the training provider ensures that staff receive comprehensive guidance, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience.
One shining example of career progression within New Directions is seen in the story of Emma Daffey, Operations Manager for Residential Services. Starting as a care assistant 33 years ago, she has gained promotion through various roles within the organisation, showcasing the diverse opportunities available in our sector. Her journey exemplifies the professional growth possible here at New Directions.
The organisation also recognises the value of apprenticeships as an alternative pathway to higher education. With staff working on their qualifications for up to 18 months, we offer a supportive environment for those who may find traditional university routes less appealing.
Aspiring individuals, whether long-standing employees or those just starting their journey, will find a welcoming and enriching environment at New Directions, where every member contributes to the collective goal of making a lasting impact.
To find out more about the apprenticeships with Warwickshire County Council click here