Job Purpose

To provide safe, supportive and child-centred care to children and young people living in a residential home.

The Support Worker will assist children with their day-to-day care, helping them to feel safe, supported and valued while promoting positive routines and development.

The role requires working in line with:

• Children’s Homes Regulations 2015
• Quality Standards
• Ofsted expectations
• Safeguarding legislation
• Company policies and procedures

You will work as part of a team to provide consistent care and support the wellbeing of children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

Safeguarding & Welfare

• Safeguard and promote the welfare of children at all times
• Follow safeguarding and child protection procedures
• Report concerns promptly to senior staff
• Maintain professional boundaries
• Support children during difficult or challenging situations

Care & Support

• Provide day-to-day care and supervision
• Build positive and appropriate relationships with children
• Support behaviour in line with agreed plans
• Follow care plans and guidance from senior staff
• Promote children’s wellbeing and emotional stability

Education & Activities

• Support attendance at school or education provisions
• Assist with homework where appropriate
• Take part in activities and outings
• Encourage participation in hobbies and social activities

Partnership Working

• Work with colleagues and follow guidance from senior staff
• Maintain appropriate communication with professionals
• Support family contact arrangements when required

Recording & Administration

• Complete basic records, including:
• Daily logs
• Incident reports
• Key information as required
• Ensure records are clear, accurate and up to date

Home Environment & Teamwork

• Help maintain a clean, safe and homely environment
• Undertake basic household tasks
• Work as part of a team on a shift basis
• Attend team meetings and training
• Follow direction from senior staff

Experience and Qualifications

Essential

• Experience working with children or young people (paid or voluntary)
• Basic understanding of safeguarding
• Good communication skills
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Willingness to work shifts

Desirable

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or willingness to work towards)
• Experience in a care or residential setting
• Basic understanding of behaviour support

Skills and Competencies

• Caring and supportive approach
• Good communication skills
• Ability to remain calm
• Reliable and responsible
• Basic organisational skills
• Team working

Personal Qualities

• Patient and approachable
• Positive role model
• Flexible and willing to learn
• Honest and dependable
• Respectful of diversity

General Statement

The post holder is expected to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people at all times.

This job description is not exhaustive and may be amended in line with service needs, legislative requirements or organisational developments.