Empowering Residential Childcare Worker

EMEA3 Recruitment; Haywards Heath; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 31,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Local government pension

244.2–266.4 hours holiday entitlement

Blue Light Card

West Sussex Choices retail discounts

Job summary

West Sussex County Council is seeking a part-time Residential Childcare Worker at Orchard House in Cuckfield, Haywards Heath. The role involves supporting children with disabilities and working to build routines, independence, and engagement in activities.

You will join a supportive team, with a shift pattern 07:00–22:00, including every other weekend and sleep-in duties with enhanced pay. A Level 3 Diploma is required within two years of appointment.

Qualifications

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent; must achieve within two years of appointment as it is a statutory requirement of this post.
• Sound communication and interpersonal skills to a range of children and families.
• Ability to promote and encourage a multi‑agency approach to support the child.
• Ability to use initiative to resolve problems within given parameters.
• Ability to work under pressure and prioritise work.
• Ability to work as part of a team around a child.
• Good standard of literacy e.g. write reports around individuals and significant incidents.
• Experience of working with children with disabilities, complex high‑risk adolescents or related experience (desirable).

Responsibilities

• Support children day to day: helping with morning routines, building independence skills, guiding activities and joining them on trips.
• Build strong relationships with the children, creating a safe and nurturing environment, and collaborate with families and professionals to meet individual needs.
• Be compassionate, patient and resilient, bringing creativity while ensuring children feel valued, respected and supported.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Multi‑agency approach

Problem solving

Teamwork

Literacy

Disability experience

Education

Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare

Job description

West Sussex County Council is seeking a part-time Residential Childcare Worker at Orchard House in Cuckfield, Haywards Heath. The role involves supporting children with disabilities and working to build routines, independence, and engagement in activities.

You will join a supportive team, with a shift pattern 07:00–22:00, including every other weekend and sleep-in duties with enhanced pay. A Level 3 Diploma is required within two years of appointment.