Hi, I’m Nicola, and I’m the Life Skills Instructor here at Orchard House. My role is all about helping young people build the confidence and practical skills they need to live independently — from cooking and budgeting to finding their own place.

I’ve worked in social care for over a decade, joining Orchard House two years ago. No two days are ever the same, and the best part of my job is seeing the progress our young people make as they grow in confidence and independence.

As a mum of five and a proud grandmother, I bring plenty of life experience and empathy to what I do. I’m a firm believer that every young person has potential — sometimes they just need someone to help them believe it too.

When I’m not at work, you’ll usually find me out walking, spending time with my family, or lending a hand to others in the community.

Hey, I’m Jasmine! I’ve been part of the Orchard House team for almost two years now as a Senior Support Worker. I studied criminology at university and focused my dissertation on how negative media portrayals can impact young people – a topic that still shapes how I see and support them today.

What I love most about my job is being that constant, caring presence – someone who listens, encourages, and shows up. Even the smallest moments can make a big impact, and I feel proud to be part of that journey with the young people we support.

Both inside and outside of work, I’m all about creativity – I love anything artsy and colourful, whether it's painting, doodling, or just getting stuck into something fun. I’m also a big family person and come from a large (and loud!) family, so connection and support are a huge part of who I am.

One quote that sums it all up for me is:
“Every child is one caring adult away from being a success story.” – Josh Shipp

Hi, I’m Clair – affectionately known as “the lazy one” (though anyone who works with me knows that couldn’t be further from the truth!).

I’ve been supporting young people for over three years, and although I never planned to work with children, it’s become one of the most rewarding parts of my life. The young people at Orchard House inspire me every day, and I’m passionate about helping them move into adulthood as confident, capable, and kind individuals.

I also work with young people outside of Orchard House, so supporting them to find their confidence, purpose, and happiness is something that runs through everything I do.

If I can help even one young person feel a little stronger, a little less sad, and a little more hopeful about their future — I’ll feel I’ve made a difference.

Hi, I’m Helen, and I joined Orchard House after spending over 25 years working in mental health. Throughout my career, I’ve always been passionate about helping people grow, adapt, and flourish — whatever challenges life throws their way.

I believe every young person has the potential to thrive with the right encouragement and support. My approach is calm, consistent, and compassionate, focusing on helping individuals build confidence and independence at their own pace.

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me in the garden — I love working with nature, not against it, and there’s something special about watching things grow naturally.

One of my favourite quotes sums up my outlook perfectly:
“Like wildflowers, you must allow yourself to grow in all the places people thought you never would.”

Hi, I’m Allan, and I’m one of the Night Support Workers here at Orchard House. I’ve spent over three decades working with young people — from football coaching to mental health support — and I still get the same buzz from helping others reach their potential.

My career started at Northampton Town FC as a Football in the Community Officer, and I went on to work for the YMCA and local youth clubs before moving into healthcare at St Andrew’s Hospital. Alongside this, I founded Northampton Soccer Stars, running coaching sessions for children and teens — one of whom went on to become a full England international player!

Outside of work, I’m all about keeping active, whether that’s training in Taekwondo (I once represented England in the World Championships!) or relaxing with Reggae and R&B.

Hi, I’m Amanda, and I’ve been part of the Orchard House team as a Residential Support Worker for around 18 months. What I love most about my role is spending time with the young people — listening, laughing, and being someone they can trust and talk to. I always try to be more than just a support worker; I aim to be a friend who truly connects and cares.

Having experienced challenges in my own life, I understand how important it is to feel seen, heard, and supported. That understanding shapes the way I work every day, helping me to create a safe and positive environment for the young people I support.

Outside of work, I’m a big animal lover and often bring my two dogs along to meet the young people. They never fail to bring smiles, comfort, and laughter — reminding us all how much joy animals can bring.

Hi, I’m Tara, and I’m proud to be both a mum of three and a grandmother of four. I’ve worked in care for over eight years, supporting people at every stage of life — from their first steps in the world to their later years. My passion for helping others runs deep, and I believe even the smallest difference can have a big impact.

Someone once told me, “A moment enjoyed is never wasted,” and that’s a philosophy I carry into my work every day. Whether it’s offering a listening ear, sharing a laugh, or simply being there when someone needs support, I always aim to make each moment meaningful.

Outside of work, I love to travel and have lived in Thailand, which remains one of my favourite places. I’m a huge fan of Asian cuisine, especially Thai food — it always brings back memories of my time abroad and the wonderful people I met along the way.

Hi, I’m Laura — though around here, most people know me as “Handy Mandy”! I’ve worked in and around social care for over 18 years, supporting services across Northamptonshire County Council and private providers before joining the Orchard House team.

My role now covers maintenance across all three of our homes, where I make sure everything runs smoothly and safely. From checking fire alarms and emergency lighting to tackling repairs, I take pride in keeping the homes in great shape for both young people and staff.

Before joining Orchard House, I worked closely with Social Services and provided transport for a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school — experiences that taught me the importance of patience, problem-solving, and teamwork.

I’m also a busy mum of two young children, and when I’m not fixing things, I’m usually chasing after them! If you spot me around the homes, feel free to say hi — and yes, my coffee order’s still one sugar.