Support Worker

Location: Basildon, Essex (SS13)
Hours: Full-Time | Days, Nights & Weekend Work Required
Shifts: 8:00am – 8:00pm / 8:00pm – 8:00am

Are you passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable young people? We are looking for dedicated and compassionate Residential Children's Support Workers to join a supportive and growing organisation providing high-quality care for children and young people.

You'll be supporting children and young people aged 11–17 years within residential children's homes in the Basildon area. The homes support young people with emotional and behavioural needs (EBD), and while staff report that the children are currently settled, you should be confident working in an environment where challenging behaviours may arise.

About the Role

• Supporting children and young people in their daily routines and promoting positive outcomes.
• Working across three residential children's homes located within close proximity (two solo homes and one home supporting two young people).
• Maintaining a safe, nurturing and structured environment.
• Encouraging education, independence, life skills and emotional wellbeing.
• Working as part of a 2:1 staffing ratio, ensuring you are never lone working.
• Building positive relationships with young people and the wider care team.

Working Pattern

• Flexibility is essential to work both day and night shifts.
• Shift preferences will be considered where possible; however, flexibility is required to meet service needs.
• Typical shifts are: Days: 8:00am – 8:00pm & Nights: 8:00pm – 8:00am
• You will typically work 3–4 shifts per week.

Requirements

To be considered for this role you should have:

• A minimum of 6 months' experience in one or more of the following: Residential Children's Homes, SEN (Special Educational Needs), Youth Work, Family Assessment Centres
• Ideally hold a Level 3 Health & Social Care qualification (preferably covering both Children and Adults).
• A full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle.
• An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or be willing to obtain one.
• A caring, resilient and flexible approach with excellent communication skills.

Training & Development

This organisation is committed to investing in its staff and offers excellent ongoing training and development opportunities, including:

• Medication Administration Training
• De-escalation Training
• Physical Intervention/Restraint Training (fully funded and paid attendance)
• Ongoing professional development
• Opportunity to complete the Level 3 Residential Childcare qualification (following successful transition to a permanent position)

If you already hold restraint training, please let us know and provide your certificate. If not, full training will be provided.

Why join?

Supportive, family-run organisation with approachable managers and leadership.

• Excellent opportunities for career progression.
• Comprehensive induction and ongoing support.
• Paid training and continuous professional development.
• A team-focused environment where staff wellbeing is valued.

Recruitment Process

Successful candidates will be subject to safer recruitment checks, including:

• Enhanced DBS clearance.
• Three professional references (company email addresses required).
• Completion of all compliance checks before starting.

If you're looking for a rewarding role where you can genuinely make a difference to the lives of children and young people while developing your career, we'd love to hear from you.