Childrens Residential Support Worker - Harpury House

Shaw Trust; Bedford; On-site; GBP 27,976 - 28,650; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Sleep-in allowance

Attendance bonuses

Comprehensive training

Employee Assistance Programme

Generous annual leave

Health care access

Cycle to Work scheme

Job summary

Shaw Trust is looking for a Childrens Residential Support Worker in Bedford. You will play a crucial role in supporting young people, ensuring their wellbeing and fostering their development in a safe environment.

This full-time position requires care, communication skills, and flexibility due to varying shifts and sleep-in requirements. A Full UK driving license is essential. We offer competitive salary, benefits, comprehensive training, and employee support programs.

Qualifications

• Compassionate and patient attitude towards young people.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to adapt and remain calm in challenging situations.

Responsibilities

• Safeguard and promote the wellbeing of young people in care.
• Support daily routines, household tasks, and meals.
• Encourage community activities and hobbies.

Skills

Compassion

Strong communication

Patience

Ability to remain calm

Interpersonal skills

Education

Full UK driving license

Willingness to work towards QCF Level 3 in Residential Childcare

Job description

Childrens Residential Support Worker – Bedford, Bedfordshire – MK40

Employer: Homes2Inspire (part of Shaw Trust Group)

Contract: Full-time, Permanent, 40 hours per week

Salary: £27,976 - £28,650 per annum (£13.45 – £13.77 per hour) + sleep-in allowance (£46.01 per sleep) + attendance bonus

Location: Bedford

About Homes2Inspire

Homes2Inspire are one of the UK’s leading providers of children’s homes, caring for over 150 children across 56 homes and 2 semi‑independent leaving care facilities. We are proud to be part of the Shaw Trust Group, a charity dedicated to transforming lives across the UK.

About The Home

Harpury House is a 4‑bed children’s home based in Bedford – MK40. Supporting children and young people up to the age of 18 – the home provides a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment by offering emotional and practical support to help children develop life skills and build confidence.

The home currently supports children and young people between the ages of 11‑15, who are all very active and outgoing and enjoy taking part in activities both in the home as well as out in the community. We are therefore looking for support workers who enjoy being busy and active!

The Role

• Safeguard and promote the wellbeing of young people in our care.
• Support with daily routines, household tasks, and meal preparation.
• Encourage participation in community activities and hobbies.
• Transport young people to school, medical appointments, and activities.
• Act as a positive role model, setting clear boundaries and building trust.
• Help young people develop life skills, including managing finances.
• Maintain accurate records and paperwork.
• Work flexibly, including evenings, weekends, bank holidays, and sleep‑ins (1–2 per week).

What You’ll Bring

• Compassion, patience, and a genuine desire to make a difference.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm in challenging situations.
• Willingness to work towards QCF Level 3 in Residential Childcare (fully funded).
• Honesty, empathy, and a commitment to being a positive role model.
• Drivers with a FULL UK license are essential.

Shifts

• Contracted to work 40 hours per week.
• Double shift with sleep‑in (e.g. 07:30 – 22:30) plus 1–2 sleeps per week.
• Week one – 2 shifts per week / Week two – 3 shifts per week.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary (£27,976 – £28,650 per annum).
• Sleep‑in allowance (£46.01 per sleep).
• Attendance bonuses (up to £1,400 per year).
• Overtime opportunities.
• Comprehensive training and career development pathways.
• Generous annual leave, with option to purchase 5 extra days.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and wellbeing support.
• Unum Healthcare – app‑based access to healthcare reimbursements, mental health support, remote GP, and wellbeing perks.
• Aviva Digicare – access to free healthcare services including Digital GP consultation, annual health check and mental health assessments.
• Refer a Friend bonus.
• Discounts on shopping, cinema, holidays, plus Blue Light Card access.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Subsidised days out with young people.
• Recognition awards for long service and attendance.
• Meals included during shifts.

Important Information

• Must be able to work 40 hours per weel plus sleep.
• Sleep‑ins are required (average 1–2 per week).
• We cannot offer sponsorshipor part time hours.
• Drivers with a FULL UK licence are essential.

How To Apply

If you’re looking for a new job in Bedford and are passionate about making a positive impact in young people’s lives, apply today!

Please Note

• All successful candidates will be subject to pre‑employment safer recruitment checks in line with Ofsted regulatory requirements and Homes2Inspire Safer Recruitment Policy.
• Candidate applications will be reviewed regularly, and we reserve the right to interview candidates before the advertised closing date of this role.