At Avondalecare, we provide residential support for adults living with mental health needs, learning disabilities and a range of care needs where personal care is required. We do not provide nursing care.
Our residents need more than practical support. They need someone who is genuinely kind, compassionate and willing to listen. Someone who can encourage them through difficult times, help them build confidence, develop coping strategies and achieve greater independence.
If people often tell you that you'd be great working in care, or you're looking for a meaningful career change, we'd love to hear from you.
The job description will give you a good idea, but its always helpful to discuss the role in more detail. If you are applying for a change in career path it's always a good idea to know what change your looking for. Your interview will be much more about the career path you are looking to embark upon, why you are making changes or looking to work in social care and what qualities and skill set can you bring to the team.
About the Role
Job Title: Residential Key Worker
Location: Westgate-on-Sea
Hours: Permanent, Full Time (40 hours per week)
- Flexible rota including weekends and bank holidays
- 10-hour shifts
- At least one waking night shift per week
- Three days off each week
- Overtime available
Pay: £12.80 per hour
Reporting to: Registered Manager
Closing Date: 7th August 2026 (We may close the vacancy early if sufficient suitable applications are received.)
You'll be part of a friendly team supporting up to eight residents in our small residential home in Westgate-on-Sea, helping people live safely, confidently and as independently as possible.
If you can comfortably travel to Westgate-on-Sea, we welcome your application.
Duties: As a Residential Key Worker, you'll play an important role in helping people live safely, confidently and as independently as possible.
Your Responsibilities:
As a Residential Key Worker, you will:
- Support residents with their mental health and emotional wellbeing.
- Provide personal care where required (excluding nursing care).
- Support people with learning disabilities and autistic traits.
- Build positive, trusting relationships.
- Encourage independence, resilience and life skills.
- Help residents achieve their personal goals and planned outcomes.
- Maintain accurate daily records and care documentation.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues and external professionals to deliver high-quality support.
You'll work alongside:
- Community Mental Health Teams
- Social Services
- GP Surgeries
- Learning Disability Teams
- Other health and social care professionals
You will be working in a small home in the sunny seaside town of Westgate, being part of a support network to those living safely in their community. You will have a staff office and a staff room to be able to work alone when you choose to and to reduce stress at work when you need it. You will work directly with residential support workers and management based on site every day.
You will be recognised as a valued member of our team and will be treated fairly and with respect, you will be trained and supported form the start to ensure you understand risk management, care plans and the best and safest way to carry out your duties. You will be a part of a wider communication network amongst all staff for regular help and support throughout each day.
We know our staff are our greatest asset and we're committed to supporting your wellbeing and career development.
EKWIP Programme Benefits:
You'll benefit from:
- Blue Light Card discounts
- Driver perks
- Company iPhone for work use
- Mileage paid at 40p per mile
- Business insurance paid when using your own vehicle for work
- Diploma in Health & Social Care after 12 months*
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Regular supervision and support
- Career progression opportunities
- Paid birthday half-day off*
- Workplace pension
- Counselling support (subject to application)*
- Overtime opportunities
What We're Looking For
Someone who is:
- Passionate about supporting people to live happier, healthier and more independent lives.
- Kind, caring, patient and compassionate.
- Honest, reliable and trustworthy.
- A practical, solution-focused thinker who remains calm under pressure.
- A confident communicator with good literacy and IT skills, including confidence using computers and smartphones..
- Respectful of dignity, equality, diversity and confidentiality.
- A positive attitude and commitment to contributing to a supportive team culture.
- Honest, reliable, and a strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
- Motivated to learn, develop and build a career in social care.
Desirable Experience
- Experience supporting people with mental health needs.
- Experience caring for others, either professionally or personally.
- Experience working with people who have learning disabilities, autism or behaviours that may challenge.
- A full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle (preferred).
- If you don't have direct care experience but have the right attitude and willingness to learn, we'll provide the training you need.
*Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position.*
Successful applicants will be subject to:
- An enhanced DBS check
- Two satisfactory references
- Explanation of any employment gaps as part of our safer recruitment process
Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions Order 75)
Avondalecare is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and appoint based on skills, values and potential. This role is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions Order). Applicants will be required to disclose relevant spent and unspent convictions. Having a criminal conviction will not necessarily prevent you from being employed; each application will be considered fairly and confidentially according to its individual circumstances. If you're looking for a rewarding career where you can genuinely change lives every day, we'd love to hear from you.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £12.80 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company pension
- Flexible schedule
- Free parking
- Paid training
Work Location: In person