Residential Childcare Worker – Learning Disabilities Focus
Location: Edinburgh – Costorphine
Job Type: Full Time & Part Time Opportunities
Whether you are starting your career, bringing transferable skills, or ready to step into a new role, this is your opportunity to build a meaningful career and make a lasting difference in young people’s lives.
At Horizons Residential Care, we are looking for caring, committed, and resilient Residential Child Care Workers to join our team. You will play a vital role in creating safe, nurturing, and therapeutic homes where children and young people feel valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive.
We are particularly interested in candidates who have experience working with individuals with learning disabilities, as many of the young people we support may have additional needs requiring specialist understanding, patience, and tailored support approaches.
The Roles Residential Child Care Worker
As a Residential Child Care Worker, you will provide day-to-day care and support to children and young people, helping them feel secure, respected, and supported to achieve their individual goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Supporting children and young people with learning disabilities and additional needs, using person-centred and trauma-informed approaches
- Providing high-quality, child-centred care in a residential setting
- Supporting children’s safety, wellbeing, and development
- Acting as a keyworker and contributing to care planning
- Promoting positive routines, boundaries, and meaningful daily experiences
- Working collaboratively with colleagues, families, and professionals
- Encouraging independence, communication, and social development
- Assisting with daily living tasks where required, ensuring dignity and respect at all times
- Recording and reporting accurately in line with policies and regulatory standards
Essential Requirements
- Experience working with children and young people, including those with learning disabilities (in a professional, voluntary, or personal capacity)
- A genuine passion for supporting vulnerable children and making a positive impact
- Understanding of child development, safeguarding, and wellbeing
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to remain calm, patient, and resilient in challenging situations
- Flexibility to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, and sleepovers
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Experience in residential childcare or a similar care setting
- Knowledge of learning disabilities, autism, and/or additional support needs
- Understanding of trauma-informed care practices
- Relevant qualification (e.g., SVQ Level 3 in Social Services (Children & Young People) or willingness to work towards it)
What We Offer
- A supportive and inclusive team environment
- Ongoing training and development, including specialist training in learning disabilities
- Opportunities for career progression
- Competitive salary and benefits
- The chance to make a real and lasting difference in young people’s lives
Equal Opportunities
Horizons Residential Care is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: £12.75-£15.50 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Referral programme
Application question(s):
- Do you currently hold a valid UK/EU driving licence?
- Will you need employer sponsorship to work in the United Kingdom?
Experience:
- Working with Learning Disabilities: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- SVQ3 in Children and Young Adults (preferred)
Work Location: In person
