Awake Night Support Worker
Blasford House – Waltham Children’s Services
Clacton-on-Sea
Transforming the Lives of Children and Young People in Care
Are you passionate about supporting children and young people who may not have had the best start in life?
Do you believe in providing consistent care, guidance, and positive relationships to help young people grow into confident, independent adults?
If so, this is an opportunity to be part of a nurturing, therapeutic children’s home where your role truly makes a difference.
Blasford House is a small, specialist children’s home providing care for up to two young people aged 8–18 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and/or Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD), often linked to early trauma.
We are looking for committed, empathetic, and resilient individuals to join our team as Awake Night Support Workers, providing safety, stability, and reassurance throughout the night.
Role Purpose
To provide high-quality care and supervision throughout the night, ensuring children and young people feel safe, secure, and supported. You will play a key role in maintaining a calm environment, responding to needs during the night, and contributing to consistent, trauma-informed care.
Key ResponsibilitiesCare & Support
- Provide a safe, nurturing, and structured environment during night hours
- Carry out regular welfare checks in line with care plans and risk assessments
- Respond appropriately to any incidents, distress, or waking during the night
- Support young people with emotional regulation using a trauma-informed (PACE) approach
- Provide personal care sensitively where required, maintaining dignity at all times
Safeguarding & Risk Management
- Safeguard and promote the welfare of children at all times
- Recognise and respond to safeguarding concerns, escalating appropriately
- Follow all safeguarding, missing from care, and behaviour support procedures
- Maintain vigilance and professional curiosity during all shifts
Recording & Communication
- Complete clear, accurate, and timely night records
- Record any incidents, concerns, or notable events factually and professionally
- Receive detailed handover from day staff and provide comprehensive morning handover
- Ensure continuity of care through effective communication
Household Responsibilities
- Maintain a clean, safe, and homely environment
- Complete light domestic duties (e.g. cleaning, laundry, preparation for the day ahead)
- Ensure health and safety standards are upheld throughout the night
Professional Practice
- Follow individual care plans, risk assessments, and behaviour support plans
- Work in line with:
- Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015
- The Children Act 1989
- National Minimum Standards
- Company policies and procedures
- Contribute to a positive team culture and reflective practice
What Makes Us DifferentHighly Staffed, Child-Focused Care
- 2:1 staffing model (maximum of 2 children)
- Enables meaningful relationships and consistent support
Small, Therapeutic Environment
- Family-style home promoting safety, stability, and belonging
- Focus on emotional wellbeing and life skills development
Strong Leadership
- Experienced, hands-on management team
- Qualified Social Work leadership with proven Ofsted success
Efficient Systems
- Simple, user-friendly recording systems
- More time spent with young people, less time on paperwork
Ongoing Development
- Comprehensive training programme (PACE, safeguarding, behaviour support)
- Fully funded qualifications (Level 3, 4, 5 Diplomas)
- Clear progression pathways
What We Offer
- Competitive salary (based on experience and qualifications)
- 28 days annual leave
- Enhanced pay for bank holidays
- Company pension
- Employee wellbeing support (including counselling)
- Retail and lifestyle discounts
- Funded qualifications and training
- Career progression opportunities
Additional Information
- This role involves awake night shifts
- Enhanced DBS check required (covered by employer)
- Applicants must have the right to work in the UK (no sponsorship available)
- Location: Clacton-on-Sea
Our Commitment
Waltham Children’s Services is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all staff and young people feel valued, respected, and supported.
Pay: £13.50-£15.00 per hour
Experience:
- Children's Residential Home: 2 years (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
