Residential Support Worker Fresh Start Care Group Ltd “Children at the CENTRe of all we do” About the Role As a Residential Support Worker at Fresh Start Care Group Ltd, you will play a vital role in creating a safe, nurturing and empowering environment where children are truly at the centre of all we do. Our homes provide care for children who may have experienced trauma, loss or instability. They need adults who are patient, resilient and committed to helping them heal and grow. This is a demanding but deeply rewarding role. Many people underestimate how emotionally heavy it can be—but for the right person, it is life-changing. You will work as part of a rota system, which includes evenings, weekends, bank holidays, and sleep-ins. This ensures children always have caring and trusted adults available, day and night. Our Values in Practice We are guided by our values and the Secure Base model, which underpin every decision and relationship in our homes: • Empowerment – Supporting children to have a voice, make choices, and build independence. • Nurturing – Providing warmth, care and consistency to help children feel safe and valued. • Trust – Being reliable and consistent so children know they can depend on you. • Respect – Recognising each child’s individuality, background and rights. • Curiosity – Encouraging children to explore, learn and discover their strengths. Through the Secure Base model, you will: • Be available, offering consistent presence and reliability. • Show sensitivity, helping children to manage feelings and behaviours. • Offer acceptance, building self-esteem and self-worth. • Promote co-operation, helping children experience success through teamwork. • Encourage family membership, supporting children to belong and feel connected. Fresh Start Care Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment. Safeguarding Commitment While there may be times when safe physical intervention is required, this is always a last resort and used only to keep children and others safe. Our approach is therapeutic and trauma-informed and you will be fully trained and supported to manage these situations with confidence and care. Keeping children safe is at the heart of everything we do. You will: • Take responsibility for safeguarding and protecting every child in your care. • Follow all safeguarding procedures, reporting concerns promptly and professionally. • Act as a role model, promoting safe, positive and healthy relationships. • Work within Children’s Home Regulations, the Children Act 1989, and Ofsted standards to ensure outstanding care. Key Responsibilities • Provide day-to-day care and emotional support for children, helping them feel safe, valued and understood. • When required, use safe physical intervention to protect children and others from harm – full training and ongoing support will be provided. • Support children in their education, both in school and at home, promoting positive attitudes to learning. • Help children develop independence and life skills, encouraging responsibility and empowerment. • Respond to challenging behaviours with resilience, calmness and consistency, using therapeutic approaches. • Work as part of a rota, including evenings, weekends, and sleep-ins, ensuring children always have adults they can trust. • Support children in managing transitions such as admissions, discharges and changes in their care journey. • Develop strong, professional relationships with families, schools, social workers and other agencies. • Maintain accurate records and contribute to care plans, in line with statutory requirements. • Contribute to creating a homely, safe and positive environment that reflects our values. • Take part in team meetings, supervision, training and reflective practice to continuously improve. About You We are looking for adults who are: • Resilient – able to cope with emotionally heavy situations and behaviours, staying calm under pressure. • Caring and nurturing – with a genuine commitment to children’s wellbeing. Fresh Start Care Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment. Child-centred – always putting the needs and rights of children first. • Professional and safe – with a strong focus on safeguarding and compliance. • Reliable and trustworthy – consistent in your care and support. • Creative and curious – able to engage children in meaningful activities. • Collaborative – a team player who works well within rota systems. Requirements Essential: • Good level of education (GCSE or equivalent). • Willingness to undertake Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (if not already held). • Basic IT skills (Word, Excel, Outlook). • Ability to work shifts, including sleep-ins and weekends. • Full UK driving licence. Desirable: • Previous experience in residential childcare or social care. • Relevant qualifications in social care or child development. What We Offer • Competitive salary with additional payment for sleep-ins. • Comprehensive induction and ongoing training, including the Level 3 Diploma. • Regular supervision, reflective practice, and wellbeing support. • Career progression opportunities to Senior Residential Support Worker and beyond. • A supportive, values-led team where adults are cared for, as well as children. Safeguarding Statement Fresh Start Care Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All adults are expected to always share this commitment and to role model safe and respectful practice. All appointments are subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check and references. Fresh Start Care Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment.