Job Description The post available is 37 Hours, Fixed-Term to March 2026 (with a possibility of extension). The post holder will be part of a dedicated team delivering high-quality care to young people, creating a safe, stable, and nurturing environment to support positive development, transition, and trauma recovery. The role involves implementing care plans in line with GIRFEC principles, maintaining a consistent, caring approach, and contributing to the overall functioning of the house. Key Responsibilities: Support senior practitioners and the house manager in daily operations, contributing to a warm, supportive atmosphere. Promote effective care planning and record keeping, ensuring young people’s personal plans reflect national care standards and best practice. Respond to challenges calmly and constructively, applying appropriate strategies to manage behaviour and maintain safety. Build trust with young people and families, especially those affected by trauma, anxiety, or adversity. Communicate effectively with young people, families, and professionals, both verbally and in writing. Attend team meetings and participate in regular supervision, taking ownership of your professional development. Participate in the rota system, including day and night shifts (12.33 hours per shift), working three shifts per week (full-time), including 52 night shifts annually. Shift allowance provided. Maintain up-to-date administrative and financial records, handling transactions honestly and in line with policy. Engage with external stakeholders such as social workers, educators, health professionals, and police. Prepare for and attend reviews, planning meetings, and Children’s Hearings; contribute to reports and update records including CareFirst. Adhere to relevant policies, procedures, and SSSC Codes of Practice. Maintain knowledge of National Care Standards and participate in required training, including Promoting Positive Behaviour and safe hold techniques. Problem Solving & Decision Making: Apply appropriate techniques to resolve issues independently while having the support of senior staff when required. Make informed decisions based on young people’s needs and the circumstances, ensuring their wellbeing and safety. Planning & Review: Assist in organising seasonal and educational activities. Participate in planning and review meetings, contributing to the delivery and continuous improvement of care. Professional Relationships: Maintain strong, respectful communication with colleagues, young people, and external professionals. Foster a team-based culture where open communication and mutual support help address challenges effectively. Most Challenging Aspect: Managing distressed and challenging behaviour from young people with traumatic experiences. Success requires emotional resilience, empathy, strong team support, and a consistent, trauma-informed approach. Requirements This post is considered as Regulated Work with Children and Adults under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2020 and as such membership with the PVG scheme is essential. Further details of this scheme can be found here. Preferred applicants will be required to become members of the relevant PVG scheme, or undergo a PVG Scheme update check prior to a formal offer being made by West Dunbartonshire Council. The Individual WDC was voted one of the top ten flexible employers and prides itself in providing flexible working to support work life balance. In addition to this there are also additional benefits: • Access to the Local Government pension scheme (LGPS) with an employer’s contribution of at least 19.3% and all associated benefits • A minimum of 25 days annual leave, increasing a day each year up to 35 days as well as 8 fixed public holidays each year • Access to employee wellbeing supports including occupational health & counselling if ever you need help and support Now that you have read the role and what we have to offer, we would love to hear from you. Please use the application to tell us your experience, and why you are the candidate for this role. For information about West Dunbartonshire Council please click on the following link and see why we are an employer of choice: http://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/jobs-and-training/working-for-us/about-us/ More information on the benefits of working within West Dunbartonshire Council, can be found using the following link: http://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/jobs-and-training/working-for-us/benefits-of-working-with-us/