We are looking for experienced and dedicated Mental Health Support Workers to join our team, supporting young people aged 13–17 with complex emotional, behavioural, and mental health needs. This role involves delivering high-quality support within supported accommodation and community settings, working as part of 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, and small-group staffing models.
You'll play a key role in helping young people develop emotional resilience, improve independence, and achieve positive outcomes while providing a safe, structured, and nurturing environment.
Many of the young people we support have experienced trauma and may present with emotional dysregulation, neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, challenging behaviours, substance misuse, exploitation risks, or involvement with negative peer groups. Success in this role requires professionals who remain calm under pressure, communicate effectively, and build positive, consistent relationships while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver person-centred support tailored to each young person's individual needs and care plans.
- Encourage emotional wellbeing, resilience, and the development of practical life skills.
- Respond confidently and professionally to behaviours of concern using positive behaviour support and de-escalation techniques.
- Promote safeguarding, risk awareness, and the overall welfare of the young people in your care.
- Support attendance and engagement with education, training, healthcare appointments, and positive community opportunities.
- Maintain accurate, timely, and professional records, including daily logs, incident reports, and risk assessments.
- Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary professionals, including social workers, education providers, therapists, and healthcare teams.
- Uphold confidentiality, professional standards, and organisational policies at all times.
What We're Looking For
- Previous experience supporting young people with complex emotional, behavioural, or mental health needs.
- Experience within residential children's services, supported accommodation, outreach, or similar care settings.
- A sound understanding of safeguarding, trauma-informed practice, and positive behaviour support.
- The ability to remain composed in challenging situations while making safe, informed decisions.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to build trusting professional relationships.
- Flexibility to work a varied rota, including evenings, weekends, and sleep-in or waking night shifts where required.
Desirable
- Training in safeguarding, conflict management, de-escalation, PMVA, or trauma-informed practice.
- Knowledge of ADHD, autism, attachment difficulties, and other neurodevelopmental or mental health needs.
- Full UK driving licence (where applicable).
Important Information
Please note: This is a specialist role supporting young people with complex needs. We are seeking applicants who have relevant professional experience in children's services, mental health support, supported living, or residential care. Applications from candidates without appropriate experience will not be considered.
Pay: From £16.65 per hour
Work Location: In person
