Join to apply for the Residential Childcare Support Worker role at Apple Orchard
Location:
Crawley, West Sussex
Contract:
Full Time, permanent
Starting Salary:
Base salary of £27,929.36 with the potential to earn up to £29,609.36 with sleep in shifts
Salary after probation:
Base salary of £29,088.80 with the potential to earn up to £30,768.80 with sleep in shifts
Specific Hours:
Approx 40 hours per week - shift pattern
Apple Orchard has five homes in Surrey and West Sussex, set in rural locations, providing a homely environment for young males aged 13-18 years. We are seeking experienced Residential Childcare Support Workers passionate about making a positive impact, willing to undertake relevant training and qualifications.
Our goal is to help young people process their experiences, move beyond their traumatic pasts, and develop insight into their lives. We support them through clear boundaries, achievable goals, and positive reinforcement strategies such as reward charts and free time.
We emphasize nurturing care, ensuring all basic needs are met in a warm, friendly atmosphere that fosters supportive relationships and positive attachments.
Duties and Responsibilities
1. Provide a caring and motivating environment tailored to individual developmental needs, enabling young people to reach their potential.
2. Plan and prepare activities that meet young people's needs and promote their learning and integration within the home.
3. Stay informed of legislation, guidelines, policies, and ensure compliance with the Children's Act, children's homes regulations, and Ofsted guidance.
4. Observe, assess, and record young people's progress, achievements, behavior, and significant events. Maintain up-to-date life books for those in your keyworking responsibilities.
5. Work collaboratively with local authorities to ensure outstanding care for young people.
6. Establish and maintain positive relationships with parents/carers to support young people's development, involving them where appropriate.
7. Be flexible in work practices, including domestic tasks such as meal preparation, cleaning, and shopping.
8. Work with the manager and team to fulfill the home's philosophy.
9. Maintain clear, legible, and non-stigmatizing records, differentiating fact, opinion, and third-party information.
Essential Skills
1. Experience working with teenage boys or challenging behavior, with a willingness to develop skills further.
2. Hold a valid driving license and have access to a vehicle due to rural location and limited public transport options.
3. Possess or be willing to work towards a Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma, Children and Young People's Workforce, NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care, or equivalent.
4. Willing to engage young people in activities and support their journey towards independence and adulthood.
5. Flexibility to work a mixture of days, evenings, weekends, and shifts, with every other weekend off.
6. Ability to challenge unacceptable behavior, set firm boundaries, and provide individualized care.
7. Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
8. Follow delegated tasks and handovers accurately.
9. Adhere to policies and procedures.
10. Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
11. Engage with and listen to young people effectively.
Benefits
* Company pension
* £35 per sleep-in (one per week x 48 weeks)
* Access to Exchange Employee Discount Scheme
* Wellbeing programs via Exchange Provision
* Promotion opportunities
* Fully funded training for recognized qualifications
If you are committed to creating a caring and stimulating environment for young people, we want to hear from you.
Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All staff will undergo an enhanced DBS check if successful.
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