Support Worker - Residential Children's HomeJob Purpose
To provide high-quality care and support to children and young people living in a residential children's home, promoting their physical, emotional, educational, and social development while ensuring their safety and wellbeing at all times.
Key ResponsibilitiesChild Care and Support
- Build positive and trusting relationships with children and young people.
- Provide daily care, guidance, and emotional support.
- Promote independence, life skills, self-esteem, and confidence.
- Support children to engage in education, training, employment, and recreational activities.
- Act as a positive role model and advocate for young people.
Safeguarding
- Safeguard and protect children from harm, abuse, exploitation, and neglect.
- Recognise and report safeguarding concerns in line with company policies and procedures.
- Ensure children's welfare remains the primary focus of all care and support provided.
- Follow risk assessments and behaviour management plans.
Care Planning
- Implement individual care plans, placement plans, and risk assessments.
- Contribute to reviews and care planning meetings.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, reports, and daily logs.
- Monitor and record the progress, achievements, and wellbeing of young people.
Behaviour Support
- Manage challenging behaviour appropriately and professionally.
- Use de-escalation techniques to support young people during periods of distress.
- Promote positive behaviour and encourage personal responsibility.
- Maintain professional boundaries while developing supportive relationships.
Household Responsibilities
- Support young people with cooking, cleaning, budgeting, shopping, and personal care where required.
- Ensure the home remains clean, safe, and welcoming.
- Participate in household tasks and activities alongside young people.
Partnership Working
- Work collaboratively with social workers, education providers, healthcare professionals, families, and other relevant agencies.
- Attend meetings and contribute to care planning and reviews.
- Maintain effective communication with colleagues and external professionals.
Health and Safety
- Ensure the safety and security of young people and the home environment.
- Follow health and safety procedures at all times.
- Administer medication in accordance with policies and training.
- Report accidents, incidents, and concerns promptly.
Essential Requirements
- Experience working with children, young people, or vulnerable individuals.
- Understanding of safeguarding principles and child protection practices.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, sleep-ins, and bank holidays.
- Full UK driving licence (desirable or essential depending on the role).
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and manage challenging situations effectively.
Desirable Qualifications
- Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or willingness to work towards).
- Previous experience within a residential children's home setting.
- Knowledge of Children's Homes Regulations and Quality Standards.