When you've worked in social work for nearly 30 years and across 15 local authorities, you gain a strong understanding of what makes an employer truly stand out.
For one of Peterborough City Council's social work managers, it's not just the work itself that makes the organisation special. It's the culture, the support, the opportunities for development and the way people are encouraged to achieve a healthy balance between their professional and personal lives.
Reflecting on what makes them proud to work for the council, the first thing they highlight is the organisation's commitment to creating a respectful and inclusive workplace.
"Peterborough City Council is a fantastic employer and what I love about Peterborough is their attention to making sure that there is equality in the workplace."
For them, equality goes beyond treating everyone exactly the same. Instead, it's about ensuring every individual feels valued and respected.
"Everybody's treated the same from the perspective of respect. Everybody is respected."
That positive culture was evident from the very beginning.
"From day one when I came for an interview, I looked at the building and the environment and I thought, 'I would like to work here'."
Now approaching two years with the council, that initial impression has only been reinforced by their experience.
One aspect of Peterborough City Council that particularly stands out is its focus on reflective practice. In a profession that can be fast-paced and demanding, taking the time to learn from experiences is essential.
"One of the things that managers push within Peterborough City Council is reflection."
Rather than only reflecting when things go wrong, staff are encouraged to learn from every outcome.
"Whether we have good outcomes or bad outcomes, take time to reflect, because even when something works out great there's always room for improvement."
That culture of learning extends to career development too. The council actively encourages employees to identify their strengths, develop new skills and explore opportunities for progression.
"Peterborough City Council looks for talent."
Whether that's through training, leadership programmes or recognising transferable skills, there is a genuine commitment to helping people realise their potential.
"The council's ethos really is about once you see the talent, if they've got transferable skills, let's tap into those skills and see where you can take that."
For many employees, flexibility is also a major factor in choosing where to build a career. When asked what they value most about working at Peterborough City Council, the answer came without hesitation.
"For me, it's the work-life balance."
The council's approach allows staff to focus on delivering high-quality work while also protecting their wellbeing and making time for life outside work.
Alongside a supportive organisational culture, it's the people they work with every day that make a real difference.
Asked to describe their team in one word, they simply said:
"Fantastic."
Behind that answer is a strong sense of trust, collaboration and mutual respect. Team members support one another, share knowledge and work together to achieve the best outcomes for residents.
"I can go on annual leave and come back knowing that the shop is still running so to speak."
It's a team environment where everyone's contribution is valued, regardless of role or grade.
"We respect each other irrespective of our grade, and I smile and enjoy coming to work because I know I have got a fantastic team."
For anyone considering a career in social work, their advice is honest. The profession is rewarding, but it is not without its challenges.
"Don't come into social work thinking it's an easy job."
Working with people means working with different cultures, beliefs, experiences and circumstances. It requires resilience, empathy and a willingness to adapt. But for those who enjoy helping people and solving problems, it can be incredibly fulfilling.
At its heart, social work is about supporting people to maintain their independence and achieve the best possible outcomes.
"It's about promoting independence."
And after nearly three decades in the profession, that sense of purpose remains as strong as ever.
"Social work is a great profession, it's rewarding and it's great when we log off at the end of the day and we can say, you know what, we have made a difference."
View our latest opportunities at Peterborough City Council here: opuspeoplesolutions.co.uk/featured-employers/peterborough-city-council/
