Residential Workers – Pioneering New Project Supporting Young People’s Transition to Independence County Durham Area Salary : £30,024 – £33,699 (plus potential additional earnings up to £5,000 with enhancements) Contract Type : Full-time, shift-based (including evenings, weekends, and sleep-ins) About the Project We are launching an exciting new initiative within our Children’s Homes Service, a home designed to support young people aged 16 and 17 as they prepare for independent living. This innovative model blends high-quality residential care with practical life skills, empowering young people to thrive as they move toward adulthood. Our homes will be nurturing, aspirational environments where young people feel safe, respected, and supported to take steps toward independence. We are building dedicated teams who are passionate about making a difference and skilled in trauma-informed, relationship-based practice. The Role As a Residential Worker, you will play a vital role in supporting young people through this key life stage. You’ll help them develop independence skills such as budgeting, cooking, self-care, and navigating education, training, or employment pathways. You’ll also provide emotional support, guidance, and stability. Your responsibilities will include: Supporting young people with daily routines and life skills Promoting participation in community activities and hobbies Creating a warm, safe, and welcoming home environment Advocating for young people’s views, wishes, and feelings Working collaboratively with professionals and families What We’re Looking For We’re seeking child-centred practitioners with experience supporting young people in either a professional or voluntary capacity. You’ll be emotionally resilient, empathetic, and committed to helping young people overcome challenges and build positive futures. Essential qualifications: GCSE Grade A–C in Maths and English or a qualification that is equivalent or higher Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent as stated in the Children’s Homes Regulations (or willingness to achieve within 18 months) All applicants must be aged 22, an Enhanced DBS Disclosure is applicable to this post. Why Join Us? Be part of a forward-thinking team creating a new model of care. Work in homes that reflect our Durham Values: Dignity, Unity, Responsibility, Heart, Aspiration, and Mindset. Benefit from a comprehensive training programme, professional development, and mentoring. Enjoy a range of employee benefits, take a closer look via Rewards and Benefits Ready to make a difference? To arrange an informal discussion, please contact Sharon Powch, Service Manager via Sharon.Powch@durham.gov.uk to arrange. Interviews are anticipated to be held w/c 1 December 2025. We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants that can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked after young person, care leaver or a veteran. EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION We are a proud equal opportunities employer and believe a diverse workforce brings fresh ideas and drives service improvement. We welcome applications from everyone and make employment decisions based on skills and ability. As a Disability Confident Leader, we actively encourage applications from disabled people and offer support throughout the recruitment process. HOW TO APPLY Please note, we do not accept CVs. All applications must be submitted online via the Northeast Jobs portal. Use the ‘Person Specification’ section of the form to clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential (and where possible, desirable) criteria. Applications that do not evidence the essential requirements will not be shortlisted. For guidance on completing your application, visit our website If you require assistance when applying for this role, please contact our Recruitment Helpdesk on 03000 26 27 27, or via email RecruitmentCYPS@durham.gov.uk All correspondence relating to your application will be sent from donotreply@northeastjobs.org.uk. Kindly check your spam/junk folder regularly to ensure you don’t miss any updates. CONNECT WITH US Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Visit our website VPRS/161