Location: Penrith
Contract Type: Zero Hours
About this opportunity
21 Huntley Avenue is an Ofsted Outstanding short breaks service supporting children and young people with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, autism and complex needs. We provide a safe, nurturing and fun environment where children and young people can develop confidence, independence and life skills while enjoying positive experiences away from home.
Working in our Children's Home means being part of a young person's everyday life. There will be challenges, but there will also be moments of real achievement as you help children and young people overcome barriers, learn new skills and reach their potential.
As a Residential Support Worker, you'll work as part of a dedicated team providing high-quality care and support tailored to each young person's individual needs. From supporting daily routines and personal care to planning activities, community outings and short breaks, you'll play a key role in helping children and young people have fun, stay safe and achieve positive outcomes.
Who we are looking for…
We're looking for caring, resilient and enthusiastic individuals who are passionate about making a difference.
Experience of supporting children and young people in a residential setting with complex needs and behaviours that challenge is essential.Just as important is the ability to build trusting relationships, communicate effectively with families, young people and professionals, and provide consistent support in what can sometimes be challenging situations.
A Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) is desirable, although we welcome applications from those willing to work towards the qualification.
Please note
This role involves shift work, including evenings, weekends and sleep-ins. The role also includes supporting young people with personal care, medication and community activities
What can we offer you!
Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes. For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council and what we can offer you, please visit our Careers site. Our benefits | Careers (westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk)
Would you like to find out more?
For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the below attachments:
- Post Specification
- Role Profile
Application and Interview information
Closing date: 10th August 2026
Interview date: W/C 24th August 2026
We are currently operating in-person interviews. Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.
If you experience any technical difficulties applying for this role, please contact the HR Systems Team at [email protected].
Safer Recruitment & DBS
At Westmorland and Furness Council we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and we expect all workers, employees and volunteers to share our commitment.
This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 and requires an enhanced DBS check with a Children’s Barred List check.
Please note this role involves working in regulated activity with Children. It is an offence for people who are barred from working in regulated activity to apply for roles that require them to work unsupervised with Children.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Westmorland and Furness Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone and work to promote an inclusive, supportive culture that values and celebrates our differences.
As a Disability Confident Leader, disabled applicants, who meet the essential criteria of this job, are guaranteed an interview.
We also offer guaranteed interviews to Armed Forces personnel and veterans and those in care or care experienced and under 24 years old (someone who has been looked after by a local authority at any point, for any length of time, e.g. foster care, residential care, or under the guardianship of a local authority) that meet the essential criteria for the role.
