Residential Support Worker
Location: Horsham, West Sussex
Contract: Full Time, permanent
Specific Hours : 40 hours per week - shift pattern
Starting Salary:
Base salary of £27,929.36 with the potential to earn up to £29,609.36 with sleep in shifts
Salary after probation:Base salary of £29,088.80 with the potential to earn up to £30,768.80 with sleep in shifts
About Us:
Apple Orchard operates five residential homes across Surrey and West Sussex, set in peaceful rural surroundings. We provide nurturing, therapeutic homes for boys aged 12-18, many of whom have experienced significant trauma or disruption in their early lives. You'll help young people heal, grow, and reach their potential. You'll be part of a team that celebrates small wins, values individual contributions, and provides a safe, caring environment for everyone - including staff.
We're looking for compassionate, resilient and enthusiastic individuals to join our dedicated team of Residential Childcare Support Workers. Whether you're experienced or new to the role, if you're passionate about helping young people thrive, we want to hear from you.
What You'll Do:
As a Support Worker, you'll play a vital role in the daily life of the young people we care for. You'll:
Provide a safe, nurturing, and supportive home environment
Plan and lead engaging activities to promote development and confidence
Build trusting, stable relationships with young people, guiding them toward independence
Keep clear and accurate records of behaviour, progress, and achievements
Collaborate with local authorities and external professionals to ensure excellent standards of care
Work as part of a committed, energetic team - supporting each other and contributing to a positive home culture
What We're Looking For:
Essential:
A passion for making a positive impact on young lives
Experience working with teenagers or challenging behaviours (preferred)
Flexibility to work varied shifts (including evenings, weekends, and sleep-ins)
A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (essential due to rural locations)
Desirable:
Hold Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma/Children and Young People's Workforce/NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care or equivalent - or be willing to work towards a required qualification
Ability to manage behaviour with calmness and empathy
Strong communication skills - both written and verbal
A team player with a good sense of humour and emotional resilience
Ability to follow procedures, write reports, and contribute to care plans
What We Offer:
Competitive salary and sleep-in allowances (£35 per night, typically one per week)
Every other weekend off
Fully funded qualifications and professional development
Clear promotion pathways and career progression
Company pension
Access to employee discount and wellbeing programmes
Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates. The company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to a DBS check at enhanced level if successful for the position.
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