Night Support Worker

EduTalent are working with a specialist residential setting in Hailsham that supports children and young people aged 8–18 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

This nurturing, therapeutic environment is designed to help young people feel safe, build independence, and achieve positive outcomes through a holistic and person-centred approach. The setting provides tailored support to meet a range of needs, including those requiring overnight care, reassurance, and structure.

As a Waking Night Support Worker, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safety, wellbeing, and comfort of young people throughout the night, providing consistent support and maintaining a calm, secure environment.

Key Responsibilities

Provide attentive overnight supervision and support for young people aged 8–18

Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all residents throughout the night

Carry out regular checks and respond calmly to any needs or incidents

Support young people who may wake during the night, offering reassurance and guidance

Maintain a safe, structured, and nurturing environment

Accurately record incidents, observations, and safeguarding concerns

Work in line with PACE principles (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy)

Implement Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and trauma-informed approaches

Collaborate with the wider team through detailed handovers

Requirements

Essential:

Experience supporting children or young people with SEMH and/or ASD

A calm, patient, and resilient approach

Ability to work waking night shifts on a rota basis

Strong communication and teamwork skills

Understanding of safeguarding responsibilities

Desirable:

Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent)

Knowledge of PACE, PBS, or trauma-informed care

Experience in residential childcare or specialist settings

Shift Pattern

Full-time hours (40–48 hours per week)

12-hour waking night shifts

Typical shift: 9:30pm – 9:30am

Qualification Pathway

Candidates without a Level 3 qualification will be enrolled onto the qualification following successful completion of a 6-month probation period.

Benefits

Supply to permanent opportunity

Full-time hours

Comprehensive induction and ongoing training

Opportunity to gain Level 3 Residential Childcare qualification

Supportive therapeutic and multidisciplinary team

Structured career progression opportunities

Meaningful and rewarding role supporting vulnerable young people