Residential Childcare Support Worker
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We're currently recruiting experienced Residential Childcare Support Workers and also welcome applications from people passionate about making a real difference to young people.
Salary: £13.05 per hour
Location: Horsham, West Sussex
Contract: Casual
Specific Hours: Shift Pattern- ad-hoc cover
Apple Orchard operates five rural homes across Surrey and West Sussex, providing safe, nurturing environments for young males aged 12-18. As a Casual Residential Support Worker, you'll have the flexibility to choose shifts that suit you, with no contracted hours.
We support young people to move forward from difficult or traumatic experiences by offering clear boundaries, achievable goals, and positive strategies such as reward systems and structured free time.
Our goal is to create warm, stable homes built on trust, strong relationships, and consistent, high-quality care.
Duties and responsibilities:
* Provide a caring, supportive environment that meets each young person's individual needs.
* Plan and deliver activities that encourage learning and positive engagement.
* Follow all relevant legislation, regulations, and Ofsted guidance to ensure high-quality care.
* Observe and record young people's progress accurately, including maintaining life books for key-work cases.
* Work effectively with local authorities, parents, and carers to support each young person's development.
* Support the daily running of the home, including household tasks when required.
* Work collaboratively with the Manager and team to uphold the home's values and approach.
* Keep clear, professional records that are factual, non-judgemental, and well-maintained.
* Already hold, or be willing to work towards, a Level 3 qualification in Residential Childcare, Children & Young People, Health & Social Care, or equivalent.
Essential skills:
* Experience working with teenage boys or challenging behaviours, with a willingness to continue developing your skills.
* A full driving licence and access to a vehicle (public transport is not suitable for our rural locations).
* Ability to engage young people in activities and support them towards independence and adulthood.
* Flexibility to work a mix of days, evenings, and weekends (with every other weekend off).
* Confident in setting firm boundaries, challenging unacceptable behaviour, and providing individualised care.
* Strong teamwork skills and the ability to follow handovers and delegated tasks.
* Able to maintain policies and procedures effectively.
* Good verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to listen and engage well.
Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates. xxuwjjq 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