Overview
We are seeking a dedicated Residential Childcare Worker to join our team in providing high-quality care and support to children in a residential setting. The successful candidate will play a vital role in creating a safe, nurturing, and therapeutic environment where children can thrive.
This is an exciting opportunity to work with looked-after children aged 8-17 with emotional and behavioural difficulties, helping them build life skills and achieve positive outcomes. You will work as part of a close-knit, supportive team in Sittingbourne, Kent, and receive excellent training and career progression opportunities.
Responsibilities
- Provide day-to-day care and supervision for children in accordance with individual care plans
- Support children with their emotional, behavioural, and developmental needs using trauma-informed and therapeutic approaches
- Assist with organising activities that promote socialisation, learning, and personal growth
- Maintain accurate records of children's progress and any incidents, ensuring confidentiality at all times
- Facilitate communication between children, families, and external professionals, including attending statutory meetings (LAC reviews, PEP meetings, etc.)
- Drive children safely to appointments, activities, or outings when necessary (full driving licence preferred)
- Contribute to the development and review of personalised care plans in collaboration with colleagues and external agencies
- Ensure the safety and well-being of all children at all times, adhering to health and safety regulations and safeguarding procedures
- Lead shifts and support the care team in maintaining Ofsted-ready standards
- Assist with cooking, cleaning, and housekeeping duties to maintain a homely environment
- Support children with school runs, educational activities, and everyday life skills
- Safeguard children's welfare at all times, acting as a safeguarding champion
Requirements
- Minimum 1 year UK children's residential experience (essential)
- Level 3 or 4 qualification in Residential Childcare (or willingness to complete within 2 years)
- Right to work in the UK (we do not offer sponsorship)
- Valid driving licence with the ability to drive children safely (preferred)
- Excellent behaviour management and de-escalation techniques
- Strong understanding of safeguarding children and young people
- Knowledge of Children's Homes Regulations 2015 and Ofsted requirements
- Understanding of EBD (Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties) and trauma-informed care
- Experience delivering key work sessions
- Excellent communication, report writing, and IT skills
- Good organisational skills with the ability to follow detailed care plans accurately
- Compassionate attitude with patience and resilience in challenging situations
- Ability to work flexibly across shifts, including days, nights, and weekends as required
- Character demonstrating honesty, decency, and integrity
Pay and Benefits
- Pay: £15.50 - £16.00 per hour (depending on experience)
- Sleep-in rate: £70 per night (8pm – 8am, sleep from 10pm)
- Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Referral programme
- Company pension
- On-site parking
- Free parking
- Discounted or free food
Additional Benefits:
- Birthday day off!
- Full induction and on-the-job training with ongoing learning and development
- Bank holiday rate and full holiday pay
- Company parties and events
- On-call allowance
- Fast-growing company with fast-track managerial programme for staff
- Supportive managers to help you succeed
- Excellent career progression opportunities
Schedule
- 12-hour shifts
- Day shift
- Night shift
- Weekend availability
Safeguarding Statement
Berry View Care Group Ltd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, full employment history verification, and safer recruitment procedures in line with Schedule 2 of the Children's Homes Regulations 2015.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a covering letter to us
Pay: £15.50-£16.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
Work Location: In person
