Overview
Stars Children’s Care is a specialist residential childcare provider committed to delivering therapeutic, trauma-informed care to children and young people. We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Residential Support Worker with British Sign Language (BSL) competency to join our team at our specialist children’s home bungalows in Telford.
In this role, you will provide compassionate, high-quality care and support to children and young people, including those who are Deaf or have communication needs that are best met through BSL. You will work during the day to meet each child’s emotional, physical, educational, and social needs in line with their individual care plans, safeguarding policies, and regulatory standards. You will contribute to creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment that promotes every child’s development, well-being, and right to effective communication.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver personalised day-to-day care and support, including personal care, education support, health needs, and social activities.
- Use British Sign Language (BSL) as a primary or supplementary communication method with children and young people who are Deaf or have communication needs requiring BSL.
- Implement individual care plans and behaviour support plans, adapting approaches to meet each child’s communication and developmental needs.
- Build trusting, positive relationships with children and young people, supporting emotional regulation, resilience, and a strong sense of identity.
- Promote an inclusive, accessible environment where all children can communicate freely and feel understood and valued.
- Follow safeguarding procedures rigorously, recognising and reporting any concerns promptly in line with statutory guidance.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, families, social workers, Deaf advisory services, and other professionals to ensure coordinated, holistic care.
- Maintain accurate, clear records of care, incidents, and progress in line with legal and organisational requirements.
- Support children’s education by facilitating attendance, homework, and engagement with learning, including liaising with specialist educational settings where required.
- Promote children’s participation in leisure, community activities, and skill development, supporting access to Deaf community and cultural opportunities where appropriate.
- Ensure the home environment is safe, clean, welcoming, and accessible, adhering to health and safety standards.
- Participate in training and continuing professional development, including maintaining and developing BSL skills.
- Work flexibly to cover shift patterns, including evenings and weekends as required
Qualifications & Experience
Stars Children’s Care is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable environment for all children in our care. This post has been created to support children and young people whose primary or preferred communication method is British Sign Language (BSL), or who benefit from a BSL-competent support worker as part of their care team. The post-holder will:
- Use BSL fluently and sensitively in day-to-day interactions with children and young people.
- Act as a BSL communication resource and role model within the home, promoting Deaf awareness among the wider staff team.
- Work alongside interpreters, specialist teachers, and Deaf advisory services where required.
- Support children’s understanding of their own Deaf identity, culture, and community if applicable.
- Contribute to the review and development of communication strategies within individual care and placement plans.
Essential:
- Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent), or a commitment and willingness to work towards this qualification.
- British Sign Language (BSL) qualification at Level 2 or above (e.g., CACDP/Signature BSL Level 2 or equivalent).
- Experience working with children and young people in a care, education, or social care setting.
- Understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures.
- Demonstrable ability to communicate effectively using BSL in a professional or care context.
Desirable:
- BSL Level 3 or above.
- Experience working with Deaf or hearing-impaired children and young people.
- Experience in a residential children’s home or similar setting.
- First Aid at Work qualification.
- Full UK driving licence.
- Knowledge of Deaf culture, identity, and community.
- Experience working alongside specialist communication support services.
Personal Qualities
- Genuine empathy, patience, and passion for improving the lives of children and young people in residential care.
- Commitment to inclusive, person-centred practice that respects each child’s individual identity, communication needs, and background.
- Resilience and the ability to manage and respond to challenging situations calmly and positively.
- Adaptability and flexibility to respond to changing needs, situations, and shift requirements.
- A collaborative team player who communicates effectively with colleagues, families, and multi-agency professionals.
- Commitment to promoting the dignity, rights, and participation of every child in care.
- Proactive, positive attitude focused on children’s welfare, development, and outcomes.
- Cultural sensitivity and awareness, including respect for Deaf identity and culture.
Knowledge & Skills
- Proficient BSL communication skills, with the ability to use BSL naturally and fluidly in a residential care environment.
- Understanding of child development, trauma-informed care, and attachment theory.
- Knowledge of positive behaviour support and de-escalation techniques.
- Awareness of safeguarding legislation, including the Children Act 1989 and Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023.
- Understanding of the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and the Quality Standards.
- Effective communication skills, including the ability to adapt communication methods to meet individual children’s needs.
- Ability to maintain accurate, detailed records and write clear reports.
- IT literacy sufficient for maintaining electronic care records.
- Understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion, with particular awareness of the needs and rights of Deaf and hearing-impaired individuals.
- Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance (children’s workforce) — this will be arranged by Stars Children’s Care.
- Eligibility to live and work in the United Kingdom.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, in line with the home’s rota requirements.
- Commitment to ongoing professional development, including maintaining and advancing BSL competency.
- Willingness to undertake mandatory training as required by Stars Children’s Care and regulatory standards.
EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY STATEMENT
Stars Children’s Care is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees. We welcome applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, and marriage and civil partnership status. We particularly welcome applications from Deaf candidates and individuals with lived experience of the Deaf community.
Pay: £27,300.00-£31,200.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Free parking
Experience:
- Working with children: 2 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Level 3 Children's Residential Diploma (required)
Work Location: In person
