Meet the Team: Steph Rea
At Lorimer, our people are at the heart of everything we do. Today, for ‘Meet the Team Monday’, we’re shining a spotlight on Steph Rea, one of our brilliant Business Support team members. Steph plays a key role in welcoming and supporting new foster carers on their journey with us.
Getting to know Steph
Steph joined Lorimer just a few months ago, but in that short time she’s already become a real all‑rounder within the team. Her role sits at the very start of the fostering journey, supporting prospective foster carers through the application and onboarding process and helping them feel confident, informed and ready for assessment.
“No two days are the same,” Steph explains. “I’m involved right from the beginning of applications, onboarding new carers, gathering information and making sure everything is ready to move forward. It’s quite a long process, with lots of back and forth, but it’s worth it knowing what it can lead to.”
Having now managed applications from start to finish, Steph says it’s given her a real appreciation for how much care and commitment goes into becoming a foster carer.
Why Lorimer?
What first attracted Steph to Lorimer was the opportunity to make a genuine difference.
“I’ve had jobs before where I questioned what my purpose was. Here, it’s clear. Everything is focused on children – supporting them, giving them stability and helping them have better outcomes. That really matters to me.”
Steph hadn’t previously considered fostering or worked in social care, but learning about the realities of fostering has been eye‑opening.
“You learn very quickly that children come into care for many different reasons, and it’s not always something anyone wants – it’s often a necessity. Seeing that has really stayed with me.”
The most rewarding part of the job
For Steph, the most rewarding moments often come from the small updates shared across the team.
“Hearing about children achieving things – doing well at college, settling into placements, feeling happier – those moments make everything worth it. You realise how important stability and support are, and how much of a difference foster carers make.”
Steph also finds meaning in knowing that the work she does at the application stage can have a long‑term impact.
“Some of our carers have been fostering for 20 years, and that all started with an application. Knowing that the people I’m onboarding now could go on to provide long‑term care for children is really special.”
Life at Lorimer
Steph describes the culture at Lorimer as friendly, supportive and inclusive.
“Everyone is approachable. There’s no hierarchy when it comes to asking for help – no question feels silly. People genuinely want to support each other.”
One of Steph’s standout memories so far was her very first day.
“Going out for lunch with the team straight away made such a difference. I actually got to chat to everyone and felt comfortable from day one, which I’ve never really experienced in previous jobs.”
Steph also values the balance within the team.
“We take the work seriously, because it matters, but we can also have a laugh. That balance is really important.”
Learning and growing
Since joining Lorimer, Steph’s role has continued to evolve. Alongside applications, she’s taken on responsibilities within learning and development, office management, and staff training coordination.
“I’ve definitely become more confident as a people person. This role has pushed me out of my comfort zone in a good way.”
Steph has also completed several internal training sessions and values how much learning is embedded into everyday work.
“The training is really practical and based on real situations. Hearing directly from foster carers about their experiences makes such a difference.”
Proud to be part of Lorimer
When asked about moments that make her feel proud to be part of Lorimer, Steph reflects on the collective effort behind every positive outcome.
“Whether you’re a social worker or part of the business support team, everyone plays a role. Knowing that children are safe, supported and happy – that’s the main outcome, and it’s something to be proud of.”
Life outside of work
Outside of work, Steph loves going to gigs, hitting the gym and unwinding with films – especially crime documentaries.
“I know they’re dark, but I find them fascinating,” she laughs.
Her current favourite band? Bad Omens, who she recently saw play at Manchester’s Co‑op Live arena.
Three words to describe Lorimer
If Steph had to sum up Lorimer in just three words, they would be:
- Resilient – continuing to do what’s right for children despite misconceptions around fostering
- Inclusive – valuing equality, diversity and equal opportunities
- Hard‑working – always developing, learning and improving
Steph’s Advice
For anyone thinking about joining the Lorimer team:
“If you share the same values and are even a little bit curious, go for it. You might discover something you’re really good at and genuinely enjoy.”
For those considering becoming foster carers:
“Be honest, ask questions and don’t be afraid to say what you don’t know. If you’re willing to learn and have the right intentions, Lorimer will support you every step of the way.”
We’re so glad to have Steph as part of the Lorimer team and can’t wait to see how her journey continues.
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