Overview
Residential Care Practitioner – Children & Young People role in Solihull. Salary £27,694 - £30,518 pro rata, per annum, including two atypical payments for evenings, weekends and bank holidays for staff on a rota. This role also includes sleep-ins with separate payment (£41.78 per sleep-in). Hours: 37 hours per week (full-time); part-time or casual hours may be considered where business needs permit.
We are opening new Residential Children’s Homes across Solihull for children aged 7 to 17 and are seeking Senior Residential Care Practitioners to join us. The service uses the PACE model for therapeutic input and delivers person-centred care tailored to individual needs.
Responsibilities
* Build positive and meaningful relationships with children and young people; act as a role model to help them address challenges and build resilience.
* Provide a safe, stable, supportive, and stimulating environment to help children and young people reach their aspirations and goals.
* Contribute to care plans, attend meetings with other professionals, and support children and young people on their journey to adulthood.
* Deliver high-quality care with a focus on wellbeing, personal development, and learning.
What We Offer
* Funded Level 4 qualification in Residential Care where required; eligibility criteria apply (apprenticeship information available).
* Competitive pay and high-quality training via the Children’s Social Care Academy.
* Clear career pathway and access to Local Government Pension Scheme.
* 25 days annual leave rising to 30 days after 5 years; option to buy up to 10 additional days.
* Shift patterns designed to promote work-life balance.
* Employee Assistance Programme – 24-hour confidential support.
* Family and carer friendly policies and other staff benefits including discounts, travel passes, and Cycle to Work.
About You / Qualifications
* Experience (paid or voluntary) in health, social care, or educational settings; ability to handle challenging behaviours and commit to safeguarding and the wellbeing of children and young people.
* Essential driving requirements (car user status with full license and access to a car); reasonable adjustments available for disabled applicants.
* Hold or be working towards a Level 4 Diploma in Residential Childcare within 2 years (funded by us); for casual applicants, a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent is required.
* For apprenticeship-funded entry, meet criteria including GCSEs (English/Maths) at grade C/4 or above, UK residency for at least 3 years, right to work for the apprenticeship duration, and at least 16 hours per week contracted (casuals ineligible).
Role may require coverage across all three homes as needed. This post carries essential car user status.
Application Process
To apply, click the link. Your application should be in your own words and reflect your personal experiences. Closing date: 26 October 2025. Interviews will be held weeks commencing 3 and 10 November 2025.
Assessment will be two-stage: stage one – pre-screening phone call; stage two – invited to interview. CVs are not accepted. The post is subject to safeguarding checks, DBS check, and pre-employment medical where applicable.
For apprenticeship candidates, ensure you meet all listed criteria before applying.
Solihull Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer and is committed to safeguarding children, young people, and adults at risk.
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