Support Worker - Children (Residential Care)
Location: Hartlepool
Salary:
* Unqualified Grade: Full-time £24,454.04 | Part-time £16,523.00
* Qualified / Practitioner Grade (Level 3 Diploma): Full-time £26,070.20 | Part-time £17,615.00
Additional Pay
* Sleep-in shifts: £40 flat rate per night (extra for any hours woken)
* Time and a half for hours over 37 per week
About the Role
We are recruiting Support Workers - Children to join a dedicated, supportive team in a residential setting. This is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who have experienced trauma or instability.
No prior residential care experience is required, as full training will be provided. Unqualified staff will be enrolled onto the Level 4 Children's Residential Childcare qualification. Qualified candidates already holding a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare are also encouraged to apply.
The role involves supporting children's physical, emotional, and social care needs, while working closely with colleagues, families, and external professionals. Staff will also transport children to school, appointments, and activities, including out-of-town trips.
Key Responsibilities
* Deliver day-to-day care according to children's care plans
* Promote a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment
* Support children's education, recreation, and personal development
* Implement behaviour management and therapeutic strategies
* Contribute to safeguarding and protection of children
* Maintain accurate records and documentation
* Participate in reflective practice, team meetings, and professional development
* Work flexible shifts, including evenings, weekends, and sleep-ins
Essential Requirements
* Full UK driving licence (transporting children is a key part of the role)
* Right to work in the UK and ability to pass enhanced DBS and safeguarding checks
* Ability to work a shift-based rota
* Emotional resilience, reliability, and ability to remain calm under pressure
* Team player with integrity, flexibility, and commitment to child-centred care
* Physically able to meet the demands of the role
* Previous experience supporting children or families
Desirable
* Understanding of residential childcare
* NVQ Level 3 Children and Young People or Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare
* Recognised social work qualification
* Ability to engage effectively with children, families, and external agencies
Personal Qualities
We are looking for people who demonstrate:
* Emotional resilience and self-regulation
* Reliability and consistency
* Strong professional boundaries
* Reflectiveness and willingness to learn
1. Confidence working as part of a team
2. Genuine commitment to safeguarding and child-centred care
What We Offer
* Full training and professional development opportunities
* Structured induction with protected shadowing
* Regular debriefs and reflective supervision
* Supportive, values-driven team culture
* Access to external professional consultations
* Emphasis on staff wellbeing and a safe working environment
This is a chance to develop your career in residential childcare while making a meaningful impact on children's lives.
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