Job Title: Senior Support Worker – Children’s Residential Services (EBD)
Location: Bexley, London
Home Reports to: Registered Manager / Deputy Manager
Hours: Shift-based (including evenings, weekends, sleep-ins/waking nights as required)
Job Purpose
The Senior Support Worker plays a key leadership role within the children’s home, supporting the Registered Manager in delivering high-quality, trauma-informed care to children and young people with Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD). The role involves leading shifts, mentoring staff, safeguarding children, and ensuring care is delivered in line with the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and the Quality
Key responsibilities
* Lead shifts, support staff, and ensure safe staffing, handovers, and daily operations.
* Provide consistent, child-centred care while building positive relationships.
* Support children’s behaviour, emotions, and routines using therapeutic approaches.
* Take the lead on safeguarding, identifying and reporting concerns appropriately.
* Manage and respond to incidents using positive behaviour support and clear reporting.
* Contribute to care planning, key work, and promoting children’s views and development.
* Maintain accurate records and ensure a safe, well-managed home environment.
Person Specification
Essential
• Significant experience working with children or young people with EBD, trauma, or challenging behaviour.
• Experience of leading shifts or mentoring staff in a residential or similar setting.
• Strong safeguarding knowledge and commitment to child welfare.
• Ability to remain calm, resilient, and professional under pressure.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational skills.
• Willingness to work shifts, including nights and weekends.
• Enhanced DBS (Children’s Barred List) – required.
Desirable
• NVQ Level 3 or 4 in Children and Young People (or equivalent).
• Experience in children’s residential care.
• Training in trauma-informed practice, de-escalation, or PBS.
• Knowledge of the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards.
Training & Development
• Comprehensive induction and leadership support.
• Ongoing mandatory and specialist training.
• Regular supervision and appraisal.
• Opportunities for progression into Deputy Manager or Registered Manager roles