Childrens Residential Care Worker

CareTech; Colchester; On-site; Full time

Job summary

A leading care provider in Colchester is looking for a compassionate individual to support young people in their development and well-being. This role involves providing emotional support, assisting with educational pursuits, and fostering community engagement. Candidates should be at least 21 years old, have a passion for helping young individuals, and be available for sleep-in shifts. Comprehensive training and a balanced work schedule are offered.

Benefits

£30 additional payment per sleep-in shift

Enhanced DBS covered

Comprehensive induction and training

Excellent work/life balance with 2-3 shifts per week

Rota provided 4 weeks in advance

Qualifications

• Minimum age requirement: 21 years.
• Full UK driving licence is preferable.
• No prior experience necessary, just a commitment and passion for helping young individuals.
• Attendance at a two-week training programme required.
• Availability for sleep-in shifts is mandatory.

Responsibilities

• Provide emotional support to young individuals.
• Assist in achieving goals and maximizing potential.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare reports.
• Empower young people in decision-making.
• Encourage community engagement and social networking.
• Organize social activities for young individuals.

Skills

Commitment to working with young people

Empathy

Communication skills

Job description

Location

Colchester

Contract

Full Time, Permanent, 40 hours per week

Salary Details

• £12.69 – £13.31 per hour
• £30 sleep‑in shift payment per mandatory sleep‑in shift
• 1.2× overtime pay on top of your hourly rate

Closing Date

Friday 2 January 2026

Key Responsibilities

• Providing emotional support during challenging times
• Fostering ambition in young people, assisting them in achieving their goals and maximising their potential
• Offering support in the educational pursuits of young individuals
• Maintaining accurate records and preparing written reports for planning meetings, reviews or any other meetings as directed by the line manager.
• Empowering young people to actively participate in decision‑making about their lives and future
• Acting as an advocate in meetings where the young person is the subject of discussion
• Encouraging community engagement, attending off‑site activities, and expanding their personal social networks
• Meeting the needs of children and young people, organising social activities and maintaining the home (laundry, cooking, cleaning, shopping, etc.)

Qualifications / Experience / Requirements

• Minimum age requirement: 21 years old
• Full UK driving licence preferable
• No prior experience necessary, only a commitment and passion for working with young people
• Attendance at a 2‑week training programme required
• Must have availability for sleep‑in shifts

Benefits

• £30 additional payment per sleep‑in shift
• Enhanced DBS covered
• Comprehensive induction and training provided
• 2‑3 shifts per week for an excellent work/life balance
• Rota provided 4 weeks in advance