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At the heart of any truly effective care is partnership and collaboration, not only with the individual receiving support but also with their loved ones. Families and close friends often know a person’s history, preferences, and goals better than anyone else. That’s why they are involved in every stage of care planning. At Moonrise we actively involve families as key partners in shaping the support we provide to individuals.

Those closest to an individual can often bring a deeper insight into what makes and individual feel safe, comfortable, and happy. They often notice subtle changes in health or mood that others may miss. By using this insight and involving families in care planning it helps ensure that support is not only clinically effective but also emotionally meaningful.

We recognise that every family is unique, some are highly involved day to day, while others can play a more supportive role from a distance. Our aim is to honour the preferences of the person at the centre of care, while building a respectful, open dialogue with their family members.

From the initial assessment and planning stage, we invite family members to contribute their perspectives. We ask about routines, interests, communication styles, and cultural or religious preferences. It is this early input that helps us build a support plan that truly reflects the individual’s life and values.

Care planning is not only about addressing needs, it is about supporting people to achieve their aspirations. We work with families to set meaningful goals, this could be improving mobility, building friendships, or gaining independence at home. When families are aware and aligned with these goals, the support network around an individual becomes even stronger.

At Moonrise we do not create a care plan and leave it there. Regular reviews are carried out, in person or virtually and give families the chance to stay informed, ask questions, and share updates. These meetings are a two-way street: we offer transparency, and families provide valuable feedback.

There will be times when family members may have concerns or suggestions. At Moonrise we are here to listen, we take feedback seriously and work to adapt plans as and when needed. This could be trying a different routine, exploring new activities, or addressing a change in health. We ensure that we respond quickly and thoughtfully.

While family involvement is welcomed and encouraged, we always ensure that the individual receiving the support is in control of their own care. If someone prefers privacy or wants to make decisions independently, we respect that; and help families understand and support those choices, too.

Caring for a loved one can be rewarding, but also challenging. We aim to support not just the person receiving care, but the whole family network. This can include offering information about respite care, signposting to carers’ support groups, or simply being a friendly, reliable point of contact.

When families, support teams, and individuals work together, the results are powerful. By using this shared decision-making better outcomes can be achieved, stronger relationships built, and support implemented that truly makes a difference.

Together, we can create a care plan that feels right — not just on paper, but in real life.

Every individual deserves the chance to live with dignity, independence, and purpose. For people with disabilities, mental health needs, or complex care requirements this can sometimes be difficult, supported living offers a way to achieve it as it is more than just a support service, it’s a pathway to a fuller, more empowered life.

As a service model, supported living enables individuals to live independently while receiving the help and support that they need to manage daily life. This can range from assistance with personal care and household tasks to help with employment, social inclusion, and managing finances.

The individual receiving support will usually live in their own home or a shared living environment, rather than in a residential placement. Supported living promotes autonomy and choice by allowing people to have control over their lives.

One of the most important benefits of supported living is that it empowers people to live on their own terms. Individuals are supported in making their own decisions; whether it’s choosing what to eat, how to decorate their space, or setting personal goals, rather than being told what to do by others.

This independence coupled with the right support, allows individuals to discover abilities they didn’t know they had, learn new skills, take responsibility for their own routines, and have a voice in how they live can. All this an significantly boost confidence and overall well-being.

The social side of life cannot be ignored or understated as social integration has been proven to reduce isolation and enhance an individuals quality of life. Supported living helps this by assisting the individual to get involved in the community through attending social events, volunteering, joining clubs, or even pursuing employment.

At Moonrise we know too well that no two people are the same, and supported living recognises this as well. Support is person-centered and is designed around each individual’s unique needs, preferences, and goals. It is this flexibility that can make it possible for people to truly thrive.

By supporting and individual to feel safe, respected, and supported, both their mental and physical health can improve. Supported living reduces stress, prevents crises, and encourages healthier lifestyles.

Individuals thrive with the right supported living, across the UK alone there are hundreds of people that are living proof of the success of supported living, this rages from adults with learning disabilities gaining employment, people with mental health challenges building lasting friendships, and young adults transitioning from care with confidence, showing what is possible when the right support is in place.

Supported living is not just about getting help, it’s about unlocking potential. When individuals are given the tools, respect, and opportunities they deserve, they don’t just survive, they thrive.

For Moonrise, when it comes to our transport services it is vital that we understand the difference between safe and secure. Though the two phrases are often used together, these two terms describe different aspects of our professional transport service.

At Moonrise, we prioritise both – because protecting the people we serve means more than just a smooth ride.

Safe transport is about preventing physical harm and ensuring a risk-free journey. It is the foundation of Moonrise transport service, particularly when we are supporting vulnerable individuals.

Our safe transport includes:

–  Regular vehicle checks and servicing

–  Clean, well-maintained interiors

–  Proper restraints for wheelchairs or mobility devices

–  Trained, licensed drivers with clean driving records

–  Strict adherence to road safety laws

–  Infection control measures and hygiene protocols

In short, safety ensures that passengers travel in a physically protected environment, free from hazards or risk of injury.

Secure transport takes things one step further, it protects the individual and the public, as well as the integrity of the transport process.

In specialist situations, security is essential for transporting individuals with behavioural challenges, ensuring staff safety, preventing escape or harm during transit

Our secure transport includes:

–  Cage-style seating areas, similar to those used in secure escort vehicles, which provide physical separation to prevent interference with the driver or staff.

–  Lockable compartments or physical barriers to reduce risk and maintain control in high-risk cases.

–  Trained escorts or support workers experienced in de-escalation and safeguarding.

–  Secure restraint systems, used only when appropriate and in line with policy.

–  Surveillance tools, such as in-vehicle CCTV, panic alarms, and GPS tracking.

–  Data protection and confidentiality, ensuring passenger information is securely handled.

Secure transport is essential when safety alone isn’t enough, such as when managing complex behaviours or transporting individuals under legal or mental health frameworks.

Most people may think a clean, well-driven vehicle is enough, however in specialist or high-risk cases, that’s just the beginning. Without physical and procedural security, staff and passengers may still be at risk, our transport services ensure:

–  Safety from accidents

–  Security from disruptions or harm

–  Peace of mind for families, care providers, and local authorities

At Moonrise, we don’t cut corners, we deliver both safe and secure journeys through:

– Risk-assessed vehicle modifications

–  Specialist-trained staff

–  Full compliance with safeguarding and transport regulations

Whether it’s a routine journey or a high-risk transfer, we make sure everyone gets where they need to be; safely, securely, and respectfully.

Contact us today to find out more about our specialist transport services or book a consultation.

 

One year ago, if you’d told me where Moonrise would be today, I probably would’ve smiled politely, nodded, and thought, “Sure, sounds nice.” But wow  what a ride it’s been. Like any big adventure, there were bumps, wrong turns, and the occasional “What are we even doing?” moments. But more than anything, this year has been about growing, gritting our teeth, and feeling incredibly grateful.

This blog post isn’t just a look back  it’s a little victory dance (just imagine me doing a slightly awkward one in the kitchen).

To our amazing team: you are the heart and soul of Moonrise and we are one family. Whether you are out in the field, keeping things running behind the scenes, or helping steer the ship  thank you for showing up, even on the tough days (especially on the tough days).

To our extended crew  supporters, partners, late-night idea-bouncers, and everyone who’s cheered us on: you’ve helped turn a big dream into something real. Your belief in what we’re doing means more than you know.

I want to be honest: it wasn’t all smooth sailing. There were times it felt more like trying to row a boat with a spoon. But every challenge taught us something. Every setback helped us sharpen our vision and reminded us why we started in the first place.

What I have learned? Resilience isn’t about being tough all the time. It’s about stumbling, muttering “well, that sucked,” and still getting up the next day to try again.

For years, we dreamed of opening children’s residential homes  safe, warm spaces where young people could really feel at home. It always felt like a huge mountain to climb (in the rain, with slippery shoes).

Then, in late 2024, I met some truly incredible individuals with  full of energy, experience, and the same stubborn hope we had. Together, we got to work. And now?

We’ve officially been granted planning permission to open our own children’s homes.

It’s happening. The dream has legs. (And soon, actual walls and roofs.)

With big dreams come growing teams. We’re welcoming new faces  people with fresh ideas, kind hearts, and a shared passion for what we’re building. Watching Moonrise go from a tiny group of dreamers to a full-blown organization has been wild… in the best way.

We’re building something bigger than us. Something that will last. Something that matters.

This year stretched me. And not just because I forgot to book time off. But somehow, in between the chaos, I found space for family, laughter, and the occasional lazy few days .

People often ask how I haven’t burned out. Truth is: I don’t do this alone. I’m held up by an incredible team, a very patient family, and a belief that what we are doing at Moonrise is 100% worth it.

If this past year taught me anything, it’s that progress isn’t always pretty  but it’s always worth it.

We have got big plans, big hearts, and plenty of caffeine. The road ahead is full of promise and probably more meetings than I would like to admit. But we are moving forward  with purpose, passion, and maybe even a few more awkward dances when no one’s watching.

Thanks for being part of this wild journey. We are just getting started.

With all my gratitude,
Jessica Gwaringa
Founder, Moonrise

For children living in care, life can often feel uncertain and unstable. Many have faced trauma, upheaval, or loss before entering the care system, which can deeply affect their sense of safety and well-being.

In this context, establishing a consistent routine is not just helpful—it’s essential – read more to find out why…

Why Routine Matters

1 – Provides Stability and Security
Children in care may have experienced sudden changes and unpredictability. A clear daily routine offers them a sense of stability in an otherwise uncertain world. Knowing what to expect at different times of the day/night helps reduce anxiety and creates a safer emotional environment.

2 – Builds Trust
Consistent routines foster trust between children and their carers. When children see that their caregivers stick to predictable patterns—like mealtimes, bedtime, and activities—they begin to feel cared for and valued. This reliability is key to building strong, healthy relationships.

3 – Supports Emotional Regulation
For children who have experienced trauma, emotions can be overwhelming and difficult to control. Routines provide structure that helps children manage their feelings. For example, a calming bedtime routine can ease anxiety and improve sleep, which is critical for emotional and physical health.

4 – Promotes Development and Learning
Routines can be tailored to encourage positive habits and learning. Regular times for homework, play, and rest help children develop skills and confidence. Over time, these routines can contribute to academic success and social development.

5 – Encourages Independence and Responsibility
When children know their daily schedule, they can begin to take responsibility for certain tasks, like getting dressed or preparing their meals. This fosters independence and builds self-esteem.

How to Create Effective Routines

 – Consistency is Key: Keep mealtimes, bedtimes, and daily activities at similar times each day.

 – Be Flexible When Needed: While consistency is important, it’s also vital to adapt routines to meet the child’s changing needs and preferences.

 – Involve the Child: Where possible, involve children in planning their routine to give them a sense of control and ownership.

 – Include Fun and Relaxation: A routine isn’t just about tasks—ensure there’s time for play, hobbies, and relaxation.

Routine is more than just a schedule; it’s a foundation of safety, trust, and growth for children in care. By providing a consistent structure, carers can help children heal, flourish, and build a brighter future. Routines don’t just offer stability for the child—they also enhance the relationship between carer and child. Shared, predictable activities build trust, reduce tension, and create moments of connection that deepen bonds over time.

Over recent years, mental health has been getting increased attention, none of which is less than it deserves. Mental Health itself is a challenge, but knowing how to support someone who is struggling can feel overwhelming. That’s where Mental Health First Aid comes in.

Physical first aid teaches you how to respond to injuries. Mental Health First Aid trains people how to recognise and respond to early signs of mental health issues with confidence, empathy and the right next steps by offering non-judgmental support and reassurance.

So what does Mental Health First Aid cover? It gives people the tools and knowledge to spot the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues, offer initial support and reassurance, understand how to handle a mental health crisis, and guide a person to the appropriate professional help.

It is not about being able to diagnose someone. It is about listening without judgement, responding appropriately, and knowing how to act in a crisis, as you would if someone was physically unwell.

Mental Health First Aid is important for a number of reasons.

In any given year 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem. Issues including anxiety, depression, trauma and stress-related issues are increasingly affecting children, young people and adults including those with autism or learning disabilities or those living in supported or residential care.

A person has a better chance of recovery if they get help sooner. By teaching people to spot the early signs that something is not right and to support a person to get help quickly, Mental Health First Aid allows for that chance.

Mental Health First Aid opens up conversations about mental health that previously have often been avoided due to shame or discomfort. The more we taka out mental health, the more that it is normalised and reduces the stigma by building a culture of openness and respect.

In a mental health crisis, such as a panic attack, self-harm or suicidal thoughts, making the right first response can save lives. Mental Health First Aid teaches people how to be calm, respond safely and connect individuals to urgent care if needed.

Anybody who works with other people can undertake Mental Health Training. For Moonrise it is important that we have staff trained in this area who can respond with sensitivity, understanding an confidence when a person they are supporting or a colleague they are working with needs help.

At Moonrise we have first hand accounts of the importance of Mental Health First Aid through our Outreach work with Children and Young People. Our trained staff working with one of our young people noticed that they had become withdrawn, stopped eating regularly and was avoiding eye contact. As the staff were Mental Health First Aid trained they recognised these as the early signs of depression, they approached the young person with empathy, not pressure by creating a safe space to talk and connected them with mental health services. Instead of being overlooked or misunderstood the young person received the early support needed to prevent a more serious crisis from occurring.

We see mental health and we value its importance and we support those who need it. This has been achieved by fostering trust, building resilience and showing people that their well-being matters and not just when things go wrong or get hard, but every day.

By investing in Mental Health First Aid we are creating a team that is stronger, safer and more compassionate by knowing that it is about being present, prepared and proactive, whether someone is in crisis or just needs to know that they are not alone.

Supported Living is more than just a place to stay — it’s about empowering individuals to live with dignity, independence, and purpose. Understanding what Supported Living can offer is key to making informed decisions about the support an individual needs. Here are five of the most frequently asked questions and what you need to know.

 

1 – What is Supported Living?

Supported Living is a model of care and support that helps individuals with additional needs to live independently, while receiving personalised support. This can be in their own home or a shared setting. It is ideal for those who want more independence but still require help with daily tasks such as budgeting, cooking, or managing medication.

 

2 – Who is Supported Living for?

Supported Living is typically for:

• Young adults transitioning from residential care
• People with learning disabilities or autism
• Individuals with physical or mental health needs
  Each person’s support plan is bespoke, ensuring it meets their specific needs, abilities, and life goals.

 

3 – How is it different from residential care?

The biggest difference is choice and independence. In residential care, support is usually structured around a group living environment whereas in Supported Living the individual has more control over their daily routines, environment and support. They often have tenancy rights and the option to furnish their own space to their preferences.

 

4 – What kind of support is provided?

Support provided under Supported Living can include:

–  Help with personal care or hygiene

–  Meal planning and cooking

–  Budgeting and bill management

–  Accessing education, work, or volunteering

–  Emotional and social development

The level of support is flexible  and can range from a few hours per week to 24/7 assistance.

 

5 – How do I know if Supported Living is the right option?

Ask yourself these key questions:

–  Does the person want more independence?

–  Can they safely manage some aspects of daily life with support?

–  Are they ready to take the next step from residential care or family living?

A thorough needs assessment and trial visits can often help determine the best fit.

 

Final Thought

Supported Living is about freedom, not isolation and support, not control. It can be a powerful way to help young people and adults live full, self-directed lives while staying safe and supported.

In today’s world we are becoming more aware than ever of the impact that trauma can have on a person’s life. Trauma can be due to childhood adversity, abuse, loss, neglect, or systemic discrimination, and it touches millions, often in unseen ways.

For those working in health and social care, this awareness calls for more than compassion alone. It calls for trauma-informed care. At Moonrise 24hr Recruitment Ltd, we see every day how trauma-informed practice can change lives for the better.

Trauma-informed care (TIC) is a care approach that recognises the widespread effects of trauma and blends that understanding into every aspect of support by changing the question from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What’s happened to you?”. It asks how we can help someone feel safe, empowered, and in control again and is an approach that is essential across all care settings.

Trauma itself is not rare, research shows that more than 1 in 3 adults have experienced some form of early adversity or trauma. Especially for the most vulnerable, the COVID-19 pandemic further intensified social isolation, grief, and mental health challenges, leaving us in a world where if we are not trauma-informed we risk re-traumatisation, misunderstanding, and poor outcomes.

Trauma Informed Care is guided by six core principles:

1 – Safety – Everyone feels physically and emotionally safe.

2 – Trust & Transparency – Open, consistent communication.

3 – Peer Support – Recovery is supported by connection and shared experience.

4 – Collaboration – Care is a partnership, not a hierarchy.

5 – Empowerment – People are supported to make choices and rebuild confidence.

6 – Cultural & Gender Sensitivity – Care respects identity, history, and personal values.

At Moonrise, we see trauma-informed care in action every day, whether that is in a young adult in supported living, who was once labelled “challenging,” but is now thriving after staff were trained to recognise trauma responses—not just behaviours.

Clients with complex needs, who previously rejected help, now welcomes visits from our staff because they feel heard, respected, and safe.

Staff who once felt overwhelmed are now more confident, resilient, and connected to the purpose behind their work.

Being trauma-informed does not happen overnight, it is a journey which starts with listening, reflecting, and committing to change and not just from frontline support workers but right through to leadership teams.

At Moonrise, our trauma-informed principles are embedded into; staff training and induction, care planning and reviews, client engagement and communication and recruitment and values-based matching. By doing this we are not just supporting the individual receiving care and support but also the staff supporting them by instilling a culture of empathy, accountability and healing.

In a world where trauma is common, trauma-informed care reminds us that healing is possible—when care is compassionate, respectful, and empowering.

By recognising the invisible wounds people carry from trauma, we can avoid re-traumatisation and help build strength, resilience, and trust. In a world where trauma is becoming more common it shows us that healing is possible when the care and support is compassionate, respectful and empowering.

Support work is not only one of the most compassionate and rewarding careers, it can also be emotionally and physically demanding. Often, support workers are so focused on helping others that they forget to look after themselves.

At Moonrise, we believe that you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Here are some practical and meaningful self-care tips for support workers to stay well, balanced, and fulfilled in the work they do.

 

1. Recognise the Signs of Burnout

Burnout can creep up slowly through emotional fatigue, irritability, sleep issues, or a sense of detachment. By recognising these early signs you can act before burnout takes hold. Take time to check in with yourself regularly — even five quiet minutes a day can help.

2. Prioritise Rest and Recovery

Support work often means working irregular hours or experience emotionally intense situations. Quality sleep, regular breaks, and true downtime, away from both screens and stressors, are essentials and not luxuries. Protect your rest as you would a shift.

3. Set Boundaries With Compassion

It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to switch off after hours. Setting healthy boundaries doesn’t mean you care less, it means you are giving your best sustainably. Talk with managers or coordinators if your workload feels unmanageable.

4. Nourish Your Body (as well as your Mind)

Eating well, staying hydrated, and moving your body regularly can improve your energy levels and mood. Having small daily routines like walking, stretching, or eating a proper lunch can make a big difference.

5. Connect With Others Who Understand

Whether it’s a co-worker, a friend, or a support group, having someone who “gets it” can ease the emotional weight. Sharing experiences, tips, or just a laugh can re-energise you.

6. Access Support When You Need It

You give so much to others, but you also deserve support. Don’t hesitate to seek help from mental health professionals, employee assistance programs, or your GP if you’re struggling. You are never alone.

7. Celebrate Your Impact

Take time to reflect on the lives you’ve touched and the difference you’ve made. Support work can feel thankless, but the care you give has a lasting ripple effect.

 Remember: caring for yourself isn’t selfish — it’s necessary. When you’re well, you’re at your best for the people you support. And you deserve to thrive, not just survive.

From all of us at Moonrise this National Carers Week: thank you for all that you do 💙