Support Worker

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Benefits: Cycle to work scheme, referral programme, good transport links

Role Overview

We are looking for a caring, reliable and professional Support Worker to provide guidance, practical support and a safe environment for vulnerable young people, including looked-after children and unaccompanied asylum-seeking children.

The role involves supporting young people in line with their pathway plans, support plans and risk assessments, while working closely with internal teams, external agencies and other professionals. You will help young people develop independence, stay safe, access services and take part in positive activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide a safe, welcoming and supportive environment for young people.
• Support young people according to their individual needs, pathway plans, support plans and risk assessments.
• Assist with the preparation, review and implementation of support plans and risk assessments.
• Maintain accurate daily records, case notes, incident forms, accident reports and other required documentation.
• Attend reviews, planning meetings, staff meetings, supervision and training sessions when required.
• Promote the rights, dignity, safety and wellbeing of young people at all times.
• Support young people with positive behaviour management, conflict resolution and emotional wellbeing.
• Help young people access facilities, appointments, activities and services inside and outside the home.
• Communicate with external professionals such as social workers, doctors, police and other agencies where required.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and support household duties, including cleaning, shopping, gardening and general upkeep.
• Ensure safe working practices are followed in line with company policies, Health & Safety, COSHH, RIDDOR and safeguarding requirements.
• Take responsibility for the building and smooth running of the shift, including sleep-in shifts and waking nights where required.
• Respond quickly and appropriately to emergencies, following agreed procedures and safeguarding protocols.
• Support home financial administration during shifts, including petty cash, activity money and young people’s allowances.
• Work positively with colleagues, share information appropriately and support good team practice.
• Challenge poor practice or concerns professionally and report issues to the line manager.
• Follow all company policies and procedures, including safeguarding, complaints, grievance and incident reporting.
• Complete induction, mandatory training and any additional training required for the role.
• Carry out reasonable duties requested by the manager to support the needs of the service.

About You

The ideal candidate will be compassionate, responsible and able to work professionally with vulnerable young people. You should be able to remain calm under pressure, follow procedures, maintain boundaries and act as a positive role model.

You will be expected to:

• Be reliable, punctual and trustworthy.
• Treat young people and colleagues with dignity, respect and fairness.
• Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
• Work openly and cooperatively as part of a team.
• Avoid behaviour inside or outside work that could affect your suitability to work in social care.
• Seek guidance from your line manager when unsure about any aspect of your role.
• Declare any potential conflicts of interest as soon as they arise.

Additional Information

This job description is a guide to the main duties and expectations of the role. Responsibilities may develop over time in line with the needs of the service, young people and organisation.