Be there for young people when they need you most – and we’ll be there for you. Join us as a Relief Assistant Practitioner at Clayfields House, where you can make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people.
Clayfields House, a Secure Children’s Home run by Nottinghamshire County Council, is looking for committed, compassionate Relief Assistant Practitioners to join our residential care team on a casual basis. Whether you're looking to gain experience, fit work around other commitments, or make a meaningful difference through flexible shifts, this role offers the opportunity to support young people when they need it most.
As a Relief Assistant Practitioner, you'll provide cover across the home, helping to maintain a safe, supportive and consistent environment for our young people. Every shift is an opportunity to build positive relationships, encourage personal development and contribute to a stable and nurturing atmosphere. Through clear boundaries and encouragement, you will help young people develop confidence, resilience and essential life skills.
As a Relief Assistant Practitioner you’ll be:
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Engaging with young people to encourage their personal development and well-being.
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Delivering or supporting engaging activities that promote confidence, teamwork and life skills.
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Work alongside experienced colleagues to create a safe, caring and structured environment.
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Acting as a positive role model to our young people.
No two days are the same. One shift you might be running a Bake Off. The next, organising a 5-a-side football tournament or teaching a new creative skill. Your interests and personality matter here.
You don’t need previous experience working in a secure home. We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support.
What matters most is:
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A minimum of 6 months experience of working with children and young people.
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Understanding of the physical, emotional, and mental health needs of vulnerable young people.
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Resilience and adaptability to thrive in a challenging environment.
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Ability to set and maintain appropriate boundaries while providing support.
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Ability to work effectively in a team and contribute to a positive atmosphere.
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Creativity to engage young people in meaningful activities
We are looking for candidates who demonstrate:
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Enthusiasm, passion and commitment to supporting young people in becoming the best version of themselves.
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Strong communication skills
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Empathy and compassion to understand the needs of vulnerable individuals.
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Problem-solving mindset, focusing on solutions rather than challenges.
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Ability to connect with young people and be relatable.
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Assertiveness and confidence in your approach to support and setting boundaries.
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A sense of humour to connect with young people and create a positive environment.
About Clayfields House
At Clayfields House, we provide secure care, education, and specialist interventions for up to 20 young people aged 10-18 with complex needs. These young people come to us due to youth justice issues or welfare concerns, often having faced difficult care histories and traumatic experiences. We believe that everyone can achieve positive change, and we need positive thinkers to help us create a ‘centre of excellence’ for those in our care.
Working Hours and Benefits
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Enjoy the flexibility of relief work, with shifts available across weekdays, evenings and weekends to fit around your availability.
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You will get paid an additional 0.33 an hour for every hour worked after 8pm during the week and an additional 0.5 an hour for weekend working.
As an employee of Nottinghamshire County Council, you will benefit from:
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A comprehensive induction programme.
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Access to significant training, supervision, and development opportunities.
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A supportive and enthusiastic team environment.
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Generous annual leave entitlement above statutory requirements.
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Participation in the local government pension scheme with a 6.5% employer contribution.
Why Join Us?
Working at Clayfields House is challenging- but it is also meaningful, purposeful, and deeply rewarding. You’ll be part of a service where teamwork matters, your voice is heard, and your work genuinely changes lives.
NCC will not offer sponsorship for this role.
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