Residential Childcare Support Worker

Apple Orchard; Dorchester; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking passionate Residential Childcare Support Workers to join their team. This role involves creating a nurturing environment for young males aged 13-18, helping them overcome past traumas and develop essential life skills. You will be responsible for planning activities, maintaining compliance with regulations, and fostering positive relationships with both young people and their families. The company offers a supportive atmosphere with opportunities for training and career advancement. If you are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of young people, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

Betriebliche Altersvorsorge

Zuschuss für Schlafdienste

Mitarbeiterrabatte

Wohlfühlprogramme

Fördermöglichkeiten

Vollfinanzierte Schulungen

Qualifications

• Erfahrung in der Arbeit mit Jugendlichen, insbesondere mit herausforderndem Verhalten.
• Bereitschaft, relevante Qualifikationen zu erwerben.

Responsibilities

• Schaffung einer motivierenden Umgebung für die persönliche Entwicklung der Jugendlichen.
• Planung und Durchführung von Aktivitäten zur Unterstützung des Lernens.

Skills

Erfahrung mit Jugendlichen

Führerschein

Flexibilität

Teamarbeit

Kommunikationsfähigkeiten

Education

Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma

NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care

Job description

Join to apply for the Residential Childcare Support Worker role at Apple Orchard

Location:

Crawley, West Sussex

Contract:

Full Time, permanent

Starting Salary:

Base salary of £27,929.36 with the potential to earn up to £29,609.36 with sleep in shifts

Salary after probation:

Base salary of £29,088.80 with the potential to earn up to £30,768.80 with sleep in shifts

Specific Hours:

Approx 40 hours per week - shift pattern

Apple Orchard has five homes in Surrey and West Sussex, set in rural locations, providing a homely environment for young males aged 13-18 years. We are seeking experienced Residential Childcare Support Workers passionate about making a positive impact, willing to undertake relevant training and qualifications.

Our goal is to help young people process their experiences, move beyond their traumatic pasts, and develop insight into their lives. We support them through clear boundaries, achievable goals, and positive reinforcement strategies such as reward charts and free time.

We emphasize nurturing care, ensuring all basic needs are met in a warm, friendly atmosphere that fosters supportive relationships and positive attachments.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Provide a caring and motivating environment tailored to individual developmental needs, enabling young people to reach their potential.
2. Plan and prepare activities that meet young people's needs and promote their learning and integration within the home.
3. Stay informed of legislation, guidelines, policies, and ensure compliance with the Children's Act, children's homes regulations, and Ofsted guidance.
4. Observe, assess, and record young people's progress, achievements, behavior, and significant events. Maintain up-to-date life books for those in your keyworking responsibilities.
5. Work collaboratively with local authorities to ensure outstanding care for young people.
6. Establish and maintain positive relationships with parents/carers to support young people's development, involving them where appropriate.
7. Be flexible in work practices, including domestic tasks such as meal preparation, cleaning, and shopping.
8. Work with the manager and team to fulfill the home's philosophy.
9. Maintain clear, legible, and non-stigmatizing records, differentiating fact, opinion, and third-party information.

Essential Skills

1. Experience working with teenage boys or challenging behavior, with a willingness to develop skills further.
2. Hold a valid driving license and have access to a vehicle due to rural location and limited public transport options.
3. Possess or be willing to work towards a Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma, Children and Young People's Workforce, NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care, or equivalent.
4. Willing to engage young people in activities and support their journey towards independence and adulthood.
5. Flexibility to work a mixture of days, evenings, weekends, and shifts, with every other weekend off.
6. Ability to challenge unacceptable behavior, set firm boundaries, and provide individualized care.
7. Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
8. Follow delegated tasks and handovers accurately.
9. Adhere to policies and procedures.
10. Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
11. Engage with and listen to young people effectively.

Benefits

• Company pension
• £35 per sleep-in (one per week x 48 weeks)
• Access to Exchange Employee Discount Scheme
• Wellbeing programs via Exchange Provision
• Promotion opportunities
• Fully funded training for recognized qualifications

If you are committed to creating a caring and stimulating environment for young people, we want to hear from you.

Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All staff will undergo an enhanced DBS check if successful.