Specialist Support Worker

Thurrock Council; Thurrock; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A local council in England is seeking part-time support staff for the Disabled Children's Short Breaks and Outreach Service. Candidates will engage with children aged 4-18 with various needs, ensuring a safe and fun environment. Responsibilities include direct support, planning activities, and maintaining cleanliness. A Level 3 childcare qualification and experience with disabled children are desirable. This role is part-time with various hours available, including weekends after school. Candidates must also pass a DBS check.

Qualifications

• It is desirable to hold a Level 3 childcare qualification.
• Previous experience of direct work with disabled children is required.

Responsibilities

• Directly support children attending the service.
• Assist in setting up activities during sessions.
• Plan and lead sessions as applicable based on qualifications.
• Maintain safety and cleanliness in the play area.
• Build positive relationships with children.
• Support social and recreational decision-making for children.
• Meet developmental needs of children accessing the service.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues.

Job description

Salary: £15.16 per hour

Grade: C

Permanent

Part Time: Various Hours available (Saturdays, after school and half terms)

The Disabled Children's Short Breaks and Outreach Service provide short break sessions for children after school, during weekends and during school holidays.

Are you enthusiastic and would like to work with our wonderful children? We are looking for staff that will support qualified centre staff and also lead and facilitate short break sessions to provide children with safe fun and challenging activities. You will be working with children aged 4-18 with a broad spectrum of needs.

Responsibilities

• Directly support children attending the Disabled Children's Short Breaks and Outreach Service.
• Assist in the setting up and putting away of activities/equipment during sessions.
• Where necessary to plan and lead sessions (dependant on qualification) taking responsibility for children and staff.
• Assist in maintaining the play area; ensuring safety, cleanliness and providing an enriching learning environment for our children.
• Develop positive relationships with the children and young people who attend our services.
• Engage and support children and young people in social, recreational decision making opportunities.
• Support the developmental needs of the children and young people accessing our service.
• Work effectively with colleagues to provide a safe and stimulating environment for the children and young people accessing our service.

Qualifications

• It is desirable for successful candidates to hold a Level 3 childcare qualification.
• Successful applicants will have previous experience of direct work with disabled children.

For an informal discussion about these posts, please contact Lauren Riddick, Centre Manager or Jackie Harper, Deputy Manager on 01375 652200.

A Disclosure and Barring Service Check at Enhanced level with Children’s Barred List will be required for this post.

Closing Date: 11th January 2026. Interviews Date: TBC.

To view the Job Profile and Person Specification please follow the link below:

Download Job Profile (PDF Document)

Application Requirements

As part of the Safer Recruitment process, Gap Management is required for all Safeguarding roles. Please complete the Gaps in Employment grid provided (refer to the example document for guidance) and upload it under Miscellaneous Documents as part of your application.

If the Job Profile and Person Specification list any qualifications as essential, please also upload copies of those relevant qualifications.

Gaps in Employment Form

Gaps in Employment Example

Applicants who hold a Visa must provide valid evidence of their right to work in the UK for this role. If you are applying under the Skilled Worker Visa route for supplementary employment, please ensure the role is eligible by reviewing the criteria outlined on the official government website: Skilled Worker visa: eligible occupations and codes - GOV.UK