Job Description
We are recruiting 6 committed and compassionate Residential Support Workers to join a professional care team supporting children and young people within a residential children’s home. The successful candidate will provide high-quality care in line with the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and the Quality Standards, ensuring each young person experiences a safe, nurturing and stable environment.
You will play a key role in implementing and reviewing Care Plans, Risk Assessments and Behaviour Support Plans, and will work closely with colleagues, external agencies and other professionals to deliver consistent and child-centred support. As a Key Worker, you will maintain accurate records, contribute to the daily running of the home, and uphold safeguarding responsibilities at all times.
Main Duties Include:
* Acting as a Key Worker—supporting young people’s emotional, physical and social development
* Working directly in line with each child’s care plans, risk assessments and behaviour support strategies
* Maintaining accurate and contemporaneous records, including daily logs, incident reports, appointment notes, review documentation and statutory reports
* Applying a sound working knowledge of the Children’s Homes Regulations and Quality Standards
* Attending training, supervisions and team meetings as part of ongoing professional development
* Contributing to domestic tasks and maintaining a warm, safe and clean home environment
* Taking responsibility for the home during the absence of senior staff, escalating safeguarding or operational concerns appropriately
* Working a flexible shift pattern, including evenings, weekends, bank holidays and festive periods
* Supporting Ofsted compliance, including contributing to evidence for inspections
* Promoting participation, rights and the voice of the child within all practice
This role requires professionalism, resilience, and a strong commitment to improving outcomes for vulnerable children and young people.
Requirements
Essential
* Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (or willingness to work toward within regulatory timescales)
* Experience working within a residential children’s home setting (this is essential)
* Experience using children’s residential care IT systems, such as ClearCare, to update records, logs and reports
* Ability to maintain accurate records and follow policies and procedures to regulatory standards
* Knowledge and understanding of risk assessments and safeguarding, including practical experience applying them in practice
* Experience of interpreting and updating care plans, and contributing to behaviour support and risk management
* Strong understanding of safeguarding, child protection and professional boundaries
* Experience of creating or supporting with staff rotas, and an understanding of maintaining safe staffing levels
* Strong communication, teamwork and relationship-building skills
Desirable
* Experience within an Ofsted-regulated children’s home
* Knowledge of the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards
* Full UK driving licence
* Experience working with children affected by trauma, attachment difficulties or behavioural needs
Safer Recruitment
This post is subject to full safer recruitment checks, including:
* Enhanced DBS
* Right to work and identity verification
* Full employment history and reference checks
* Medical fitness declaration
* Ongoing suitability monitoring throughout employment
Benefits
We are proud to be recruiting on behalf of a reputable children’s residential care provider that is committed to creating an exceptional working environment. Their focus is on supporting, valuing, and empowering their staff so they can deliver the highest standard of care. The organisation recognises that its team is central to its success and actively promotes wellbeing, professional development, and a strong sense of purpose.
Competitive Compensation
Our client offers highly competitive salaries alongside a flexible rota system. Shifts are planned well in advance to promote a healthy work–life balance and help prevent staff burnout.
Bonus & Recognition Scheme
To foster a culture of appreciation, the organisation provides generous bonus schemes across a variety of roles. Staff achievements are celebrated through regular monthly, quarterly, and annual recognition awards.
Training & Professional Development
The organisation invests heavily in comprehensive training, beginning with a robust induction programme and continuing through ongoing professional development opportunities. Staff are supported in achieving nationally recognised qualifications, including:
* Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare
* Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Residential Childcare
Clear Career Progression
Every role comes with a structured development plan to support long-term career growth.
* Junior Residential Support Workers receive the training and experience needed to progress into Senior and Team Leader positions.
* Deputy Managers benefit from tailored mentoring and development designed to prepare them for Registered Manager or Responsible Individual roles.
Requirements
Requirements We’re looking for a dynamic leader who blends empathy with excellence, and who thrives on building something meaningful from the ground up. Essential: Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or equivalent). Minimum 2 years’ experience as a Registered Manager in an Ofsted-registered children’s home (EBD or similar). Proven track record of achieving Good or Outstanding Ofsted ratings. Strong understanding of Children’s Homes Regulations and Quality Standards (2015). Robust safeguarding knowledge and ability to implement effective systems and processes. Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational skills. Desirable: Experience supporting children with EBD, trauma, or attachment difficulties. Previous involvement in registering or setting up a new children’s home.