Senior Children’s Support Worker (Residential / Team Leader)
📍 Crook, County Durham, UK
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Children’s Support Worker / Team Leader to join a residential care setting supporting a young people.
This is a rewarding opportunity to play a key role in providing high-quality, person-centred care within a supportive and structured environment, helping a young person achieve their full potential.
About the Role
Based in a residential home environment, you will work closely with our young people, providing consistent care, guidance and emotional support. You will also take on leadership responsibilities, ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the home, particularly in the absence of the Registered Manager.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide a safe, nurturing and supportive environment for the young people
* Build positive, trusting relationships and act as a strong role model
* Support emotional, behavioural and developmental needs
* Lead shifts and maintain high standards of care at all times
* Assist in care planning, risk assessments and report writing
* Ensure care plans are implemented and updated as needed
* Support education, activities and community engagement
* Promote positive behaviour and encourage personal growth
* Maintain accurate records and contribute to reviews and meetings
* Supervise and support junior staff, including new starters
* Work collaboratively as part of a team and contribute to team development
* Ensure compliance with safeguarding practices and relevant regulations
What We’re Looking For
* Experience working with children or young people in a residential care setting
* Strong leadership skills and the ability to guide and support a team
* A compassionate, resilient and proactive approach
* Ability to manage challenging behaviours positively and effectively
* Good written and verbal communication skills
* Understanding of safeguarding and relevant childcare legislation
* A full UK driving licence (desirable)
Working Hours & Conditions
* Flexible shift patterns including early mornings, evenings, weekends and sleep-ins
* Participation in an on-call rota, including out-of-hours support
* Occasional rota changes may be required to meet service needs
What We Offer
* A supportive and collaborative working environment
* Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
* The chance to make a genuine difference in a young person’s life
* Career progression within a growing organisation
Additional Information
This role is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check due to working with vulnerable young people. Safeguarding and promoting their welfare is a priority, and all applicants must share this commitment.