Securing lasting commitments through meaningful work

We find out more about Be Caring's outcomes-focused approach to care and how this is supporting them to keep staff for the long-term.

Retaining a skilled and compassionate workforce remains one of the most pressing challenges in adult social care.

Be Caring's strategy to support retention centres on creating roles that are emotionally rewarding, professionally sustainable, and deeply meaningful.

At the heart of their retention model is its outcomes-focused approach to care. Team members are trained to support individuals in achieving personal goals - whether that’s regaining independence, reconnecting with hobbies, or improving emotional wellbeing. This person-centred ethos transforms care into a vocation.

Stacey Clarkson, Assistant Director of Operations / Registered Manager, Leeds, says:

Carers often support the same clients over extended periods, building strong bonds and a deep understanding of individual needs. These relationships are not only beneficial for clients but also profoundly rewarding for carers.

Be Caring actively nurtures a sense of purpose for their team members through regular recognition and celebration. Initiatives such as “Above and Beyond” awards, “Be Proud” events, and “Coffee and Cake” gatherings highlight exceptional care and long service. These moments affirm the organisation’s appreciation and foster a strong sense of community.

Career development is another cornerstone of retention. Staff are offered clear pathways to progress into leadership, training, or specialist roles. Internal vacancies are shared first, and job descriptions are adapted to suit individual strengths. Even those who choose to remain in frontline roles are supported to deepen their expertise and take on mentoring responsibilities.

Flexibility is embedded throughout Be Caring’s working model. Carers are supported to balance work with personal commitments, with rotas adapted to suit changing circumstances. This responsiveness helps staff stay in their roles longer.

By investing in relationships, recognition, development, and wellbeing, Be Caring has built a resilient, experienced team capable of delivering exceptional care. Their approach offers valuable lessons for the wider sector.

Recommendations for adult social care providers

• Embed purpose into care roles by focusing on outcomes that matter to clients and supporting carers to build meaningful relationships.

• Recognise and celebrate staff contributions regularly through formal awards, informal gatherings, and public praise.

• Offer financial stability and flexibility through fair pay models, predictable rotas, and responsive scheduling that supports work-life balance.

Read more about Be Caring’s approach in Skills for Care’s Practical Approaches Toolkit.

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