Purpose of the Role To provide high-quality care, support, and guidance to children and young people with Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD) and complex needs in a safe, nurturing, and structured residential setting. The role involves meeting their physical, emotional, psychological, and social needs while acting as a positive role model, encouraging growth, development, and resilience. Reporting to: Team Leaders, Deputy Manager, Registered Manager, and Responsible Individual Key Responsibilities: Child-Centred Support Promote the safety, welfare, and wellbeing of each child in line with the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards. Build positive, trusting relationships with children and provide consistent, trauma-informed care. Encourage and support the development of children’s life skills, self-esteem, and independence. Support children in managing their emotions and behaviours through positive behaviour strategies and de-escalation techniques. Follow and contribute to individualised Care Plans, Risk Assessments, and Behaviour Support Plans. Provide day-to-day support including meal preparation, personal care, recreational activities, and household tasks. Act as Key Worker or Co-Key Worker, ensuring all records, reviews, and planning documents are updated and meaningful. Promote educational engagement, attend school meetings when needed, and help with homework or extracurricular activities. Team Collaboration Work proactively with the staff team to ensure consistent care practices. Attend and contribute to team meetings, handovers, and supervisions. Communicate effectively with colleagues, professionals, and families, maintaining confidentiality and professionalism at all times. Uphold safeguarding and whistleblowing procedures; report concerns promptly in line with policy. Adhere to all organisational policies, including those related to safeguarding, health & safety, confidentiality, and equality. Administrative and Record-Keeping Keep accurate and timely records using the organisation’s systems (e.g., incident reports, daily logs, key working notes). Contribute to the preparation of reports for reviews, care planning, and statutory assessments. Assist in the maintenance of financial records as required. Promoting a Safe and Nurturing Environment Ensure the home is clean, welcoming, and compliant with health and safety regulations. Participate in activities that promote the home as a therapeutic and supportive environment. Support young people in developing links with the wider community and promoting positive peer relationships. Special Requirements Flexibility to work a rota including weekends, bank holidays, night shifts, and sleep-ins. Willingness to cover emergency shifts or rota changes at short notice. Maintain a valid Enhanced DBS check and report any changes to criminal history promptly. Person Specification Qualifications (Required/Preferred) Essential: Diploma Level 3 in Children and Young People Workforce (or equivalent) or willingness to work towards. Desirable: Additional qualifications or training in safeguarding, mental health, or therapeutic support. Experience Essential: Minimum of 2 years’ experience supporting children and young people in a residential care setting, particularly those with EBD or complex needs. Desirable: Experience working within trauma-informed care frameworks. Skills & Attributes Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Resilient and emotionally intelligent, with the ability to remain calm in challenging situations. Committed to safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Solution-focused, reflective, and committed to personal and professional development. Benefits Company pension scheme Health and wellbeing support programme Paid training and development opportunities Competitive sleep-in allowance Enhanced sick pay (after qualifying period) Schedule 12-hour shifts (day and night) Includes weekends and bank holidays (rota-based) Location: London – Croydon, Lewisham Job Type: Full-time Pay: £12.50-£14.50 per hour Expected hours: 12 – 40 per week Education: GCSE or equivalent (preferred) Experience: Supporting children and young people in a residential Care: 2 years (preferred) Working within Trauma-informed Care: 1 year (preferred) Language: English (preferred) Licence/Certification: Diploma Level 3 in Children and Young People Workforce (preferred) Work Location: In person