Residential Childcare Support Worker (Sessional/Casual)

Polaris Community; St Albans; On-site; GBP 1,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading organization is seeking committed and enthusiastic Residential Childcare Support Workers for casual shifts in St Albans. This role offers flexibility and the opportunity to make a positive impact on young people's lives as they transition towards independence. Responsibilities include providing quality support, ensuring safety, and maintaining effective communication with young people and professionals. Candidates should have experience with vulnerable youth and relevant qualifications, with a strong commitment to excellence.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting vulnerable young people.
• Hold relevant qualifications or willingness to study towards them.
• Full driving license and access to a vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Work in line with person-centered risk assessments and support plans.
• Observe behavioral changes and document appropriately.
• Maintain positive relationships with young people and staff.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Resilience

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care

Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma

Children and Young People's Workforce

Job description

Specific Hours:

Shift pattern - ad-hoc cover

Salary:

£12.79 per hour

Location:

St Albans

Job Description:

LCS is seeking committed and enthusiastic Residential Childcare Support Workers to work on a casual basis, covering shifts as needed. This role offers flexibility to work the hours you can commit to with no contractual obligation.

Our vision is to make a positive and lasting difference to young people who have been in care and are moving towards independence. We provide accommodation/housing and support young people to achieve independence and educational goals.

As a Residential Childcare Support Worker, your role involves providing a responsive, customized, and quality service to young people in their individual flats or shared houses.

Young people supported by Leaving Care Solutions are vulnerable; you are responsible for ensuring the home provides a safe, welcoming, and healthy environment.

Responsibilities:

• Work in line with person-centered risk assessments and support plans, liaising with support workers for full handovers.
• Observe behavioral changes, document appropriately, and report any support needs.
• Maintain positive relationships with young people, staff, and professionals through effective communication and teamwork.
• Ensure continuous support at the standards of day staff, focusing on the safety of vulnerable individuals.
• Perform health and safety tasks, including cleaning, following policies and procedures.
• Liaise with external agencies such as police and Emergency Duty Team (EDT).
• Support young people attending hospital or police stations.

Minimum Requirements:

• Experience supporting vulnerable young people.
• Flexibility to work weekends.
• Hold relevant qualifications (e.g., Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma, Children and Young People's Workforce, NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care) or willingness to study towards them.
• Full driving license and access to a vehicle, as travel may be required.

Person Specification:

• Resilient with the ability to handle challenging behaviors positively.
• Strong self-awareness and commitment to being a positive role model.
• Personal accountability and motivation to achieve excellence.
• Passionate about supporting young people to reach their full potential.

LCS is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from qualified candidates. Polaris is committed to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All staff must complete an enhanced DBS check.