ABOUT US
Our Story
Welcome to Doing it Differently, ‘DiDs’ for short. Founded in 2017 we set out to offer an alternative to children’s residential settings for looked after children starting their journey into adult life.
The company was started to enable 16-17 year olds to start taking responsibility for their own futures, a place where they can start to prepare for living independently with minimal house rules in place to allow them the space to explore what living independently will be like within the safety of a welcoming home.
At DiDs, we believe that as young people approaching leaving care you need the freedom and opportunity to explore the world you are moving into balanced with trusted adults who are there to support you 24/7 and keep you safe. We strive to provide welcoming homes that encourage independence while providing essential life skills and emotional support.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to empower you to embrace life to its fullest potential while under our care, and to pave the way for your future independence. We are committed to creating an environment where each young person’s unique journey is supported, allowing you to make decisions confidently within a secure and stable home environment.
HOW ARE WE ‘DOING IT DIFFERENTLY’?
We are not a children’s residential home, we are a young persons stepping stone to independent living. In a semi-independent home you will be supported to look after your own needs in terms of health, shopping, cooking, laundry, finance, employment and education. None of this will be done for you but we will give you whatever support and encouragement you need to do this independently.
MEET THE TEAM
Sarah at age 16
MEET THE DIRECTOR
Hi I’m Sarah Williams. Director at DiDs. I’m passionate about rugby and love going to music festivals. I started DiDs to offer an opportunity to 16 year olds who were as desperate as I was to be independent at that age! I hoped to create a space where you can be yourself, explore the world of adulting and get as much support as you need from us. I really enjoy working with young people and love to hear about your progress. If you want to speak with me, you will find me in the homes each week or you can ask to see me through the team that support you daily.
Kat at age 16
I’m Kat and I work as a YIM at DiDs. I am currently based out of the Taunton house and have been working for DiDs since 2018. I enjoy going to music festivals in the summer and I also like swimming, reading and watching documentaries on Netflix. I really enjoy talking to the young people who come and live with us and working with them to find out the best way we can support them into their independence. I am proud to be part of a great team of people who offer a safe, friendly and relaxing home for young people who need and want our help.
Elisha
My name is Elisha , I love to travel, see new places and gain new experiences. I began working with young people in 2010 starting in residential children homes then moving on to work in family assessment centres and supported living. I have been working at DIDS since 2019 which has happily flew by! Seeing young people reach their goals and thrive with my support is what this job is all about
Carrie at age 17
MEET THE MANAGER
My name is Carrie and I am the manager of the homes at DiDs.
I enjoy festivals, music events and have a varied taste in music. I still feel like I am 21, although my knees tell me differently.
I have worked with young people since 2012 and chose this career because I also have had to work hard to prove that I am not the choices I made as a teenager. I understand being a teenager is not easy and I will fight your corner to get you the support you need to thrive. You will find me non-judgmental, transparent, open to all conversations and most importantly honest.
I love a bit of banter and my party trick is to make a chicken out of a tea-towel which I am more than happy to show off.
Karen at age 17
Hi, my name is Karen (Don’t worry I am not your typical modern day Karen!) and I have worked for DiDs since 2022. I worked with Primary school age children for 25 years before coming here and am now really enjoying working with young people of your age. I am very sociable and a really good listener. I enjoy reading, drawing and music of all types. I am looking forward to helping you with your goals and aims and supporting you in the tricky world of becoming an adult.
Helen at age 16
Hey! My name is Helen. I have been working with children most of my adult life and have great experiences and knowledge with my own children. I enjoy watching football and spending time with my son’s football teams. I am friendly, approachable and here to support you on your daunting journey into adulthood. I love a good chat and am always up for a laugh..