Support Worker

Charles Hunter Associates; Exeter; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A local council in Devon seeks an experienced Children's Residential Support Worker to provide care for young people with complex needs. The ideal candidate will have experience in residential care, a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or willingness to obtain), and a full UK driving licence. This role offers competitive pay, generous benefits, and opportunities for career progression.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Generous public sector benefits

Ongoing training

Qualifications

• Experience in residential care or similar settings.
• Understanding safeguarding best practices.
• Willingness to complete the Level 3 Diploma.

Responsibilities

• Deliver emotional and practical support to children.
• Work in a team to create a structured setting.
• Encourage independence through personalised care.
• Support educational needs and social activities.

Skills

Experience supporting children or young adults

Understanding of trauma-informed care

Ability to promote positive behaviour

Flexibility to work shifts

Full UK driving licence

Education

Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare

Job description

Children's Residential Support Worker - Council-Run Homes (Devon Locations)
Salary: £25,992 - £32,000 per annum (plus sleep-in enhancements)
Locations: Dartington, Exeter, Okehampton, Barnstaple

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people? Do you have experience supporting children or young adults with learning disabilities, mental health needs, trauma, or challenging behaviours? If so, a rewarding role with your local council could be the next step in your career.

We are currently recruiting experienced Children's Residential Support Workers to join dedicated teams across council-run homes in Devon.These services provide high-quality care and support to young people with complex needs in safe and supportive environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver consistent emotional and practical support to children and young people.

• Work collaboratively within a team to create a nurturing and structured residential setting.

• Promote positive behaviour and encourage independence through personalised care plans.

• Support children with day-to-day routines, educational needs, and social activities.

What We're Looking For:

• Experience working with children or young adults in residential care, SEN education, youth services, or similar settings.

• Understanding of trauma-informed care and safeguarding best practices.

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or willingness to complete).

• Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends and sleep-in duties.

• Full UK driving licence (essential).

What You'll Receive:

• Competitive salary with regular enhancements for sleep-in shifts.

• Generous public sector benefits including annual pay reviews and an excellent pension scheme.

• Career stability with a trusted local authority employer.

• Ongoing training and clear progression opportunities within children's social care.

Ideal Backgrounds:

We welcome applicants from diverse professional backgrounds including:

• Youth work

• Special educational needs (SEN) support

• Care leavers and fostering services

• Young offenders or mental health services

Please Note:
We are unable to consider applicants who:

• Require visa sponsorship

• Have experience in adult-only social care

• Do not hold a full UK driving licence

Ready to take the next step in your social care career? Apply today to find out more.