Job Overview
We are seeking compassionate, reliable and dedicated Bank Residential Support Workers to provide high-quality, child-centred care within our residential children’s homes.
The role involves supporting children and young people with their daily routines, emotional wellbeing, education, activities and individual care plans. You will help provide a safe, nurturing and stable environment where children can develop confidence, build positive relationships and achieve positive outcomes.
This is a flexible, paid position suitable for individuals who are passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people. Bank staff will provide cover for planned leave, sickness and additional staffing requirements across the homes.
Responsibilities
- Provide safe, nurturing and individualised care in accordance with each child’s care plan, risk assessments and behaviour support plan.
- Build positive, trusting and professional relationships with children and young people.
- Support children with their daily routines, including personal care where appropriate, mealtimes, bedtime routines and maintaining their bedrooms.
- Promote children’s emotional wellbeing and support them to understand and manage their feelings safely.
- Respond to behaviours of concern calmly and consistently, using trauma-informed and positive behaviour-support approaches.
- Follow safeguarding procedures and report any concerns promptly to the appropriate manager or Designated Safeguarding Lead.
- Support children to attend education, health appointments, family time and other professional meetings.
- Plan and participate in recreational, social and educational activities that reflect each child’s interests and needs.
- Encourage children to develop independence, confidence, social skills and age-appropriate life skills.
- Administer medication safely and accurately in line with training, policies and prescribed instructions.
- Maintain clear, accurate and timely records, including daily logs, incident reports, medication records and relevant care documentation.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, families, social workers, education providers and other professionals.
- Maintain professional boundaries, confidentiality and a consistently child-centred approach.
- Support the safe management of the home, including completing household tasks, preparing meals and maintaining a welcoming environment.
- Drive or accompany children to appointments, activities, education and family time when required.
- Follow all organisational policies, procedures and regulatory requirements, including the Children’s Homes Regulations and Quality Standards.
- Attend required training, team meetings, supervision and reflective debriefs where applicable.
- Work flexibly across a rota that may include days, evenings, weekends, bank holidays and sleep-in duties.
Skills and Experience
- Previous experience working with children or young people in residential care, education, youth work, social care or a similar setting is desirable.
- A genuine commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
- A compassionate, patient and non-judgemental approach.
- The ability to remain calm and respond safely during challenging or emotionally heightened situations.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with children, colleagues and professionals.
- An understanding of trauma, attachment and how children’s experiences can influence their emotions and behaviour is advantageous.
- The ability to follow care plans, risk assessments, safeguarding procedures and professional guidance.
- Good written skills and the ability to complete accurate, factual and professional records.
- The ability to work independently while contributing positively to a wider staff team.
- Reliability, flexibility and a willingness to provide cover according to the needs of the home.
- A Level 3 qualification in Residential Childcare, or a relevant equivalent, is desirable but not essential, as training and development opportunities may be provided.
- First-aid, safeguarding, medication and positive behaviour-support training are advantageous; however, necessary training can be provided.
- A full UK driving licence is desirable due to the need to transport children to education, appointments, activities and family time.
- Applicants must be willing to complete all required safer-recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory employment references.
This is a rewarding opportunity to support children and young people who may have experienced trauma, disruption or adversity. We welcome applications from caring, resilient and dependable individuals who are committed to providing safe, consistent and high-quality residential care.
Pay: £12.75-£14.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- Store discount
Work Location: In person
