Support Worker

Are you passionate about supporting vulnerable young people and helping them overcome challenges, build confidence and reach their full potential?

We are recruiting Residential Support Workers, supporting young people across therapeutic residential and supported accommodation services in Wimborne, Dorchester, Romsey and Southampton.

This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is compassionate, patient and emotionally resilient, with a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives of young people who may have experienced significant trauma and adversity.

About the Young People

The young people supported may have experienced a range of complex circumstances, including:

• Breakdown of foster or adoptive placements
• Attachment disorder
• Criminal exploitation or child sexual exploitation
• Substance misuse
• Inappropriate sexualised behaviours
• Self-harm or suicidal ideation
• Being classified as vulnerable or at risk within their community

These are therapeutic services, so you will need to approach each young person with patience, empathy and understanding.

The young people may not immediately trust or warm to new staff, particularly due to their previous experiences. Your ability to remain consistent, non-judgemental and compassionate will be key to building meaningful relationships.

The Role

As a Residential Support Worker, you will help create a safe, stable and nurturing environment where young people are encouraged to explore their potential, discover their strengths and develop their independence.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Building positive and trusting relationships with young people
• Engaging with young people and taking an interest in their lives
• Learning about each young person's likes, dislikes, hobbies and interests
• Identifying potential triggers and understanding how to respond appropriately
• Supporting young people to manage their behaviour
• Maintaining a calm, safe and nurturing environment
• Working alongside social workers, therapists and other professionals

The homes are run with a family-home approach, helping young people experience stability, consistency and a sense of belonging.

Therapeutic Approach

An understanding of therapeutic techniques and trauma-informed care is important for these roles.

You will be expected to:

• Understand each young person's individual triggers
• Read care plans thoroughly and speak with managers and permanent staff about anything you need to be aware of
• Remain calm and consistent when responding to challenging behaviour
• Ensure the environment is safe and remove potential objects or hazards that could cause harm
• Understand how trauma can affect behaviour and emotional regulation

The organisation provides specialist training to help you develop your knowledge and skills, including PRICE restraint training, Developmental Trauma and Therapeutic Parenting.

Shift Pattern

The roles involve working 24-hour shifts, including sleep-ins.

Typical shift pattern:

9:00am – 11:00pm + Sleep-in, 7:00am – 9:30am the following morning

You will be required to work 7 x 24-hour shifts, including sleep-ins, over a 3-week rotation.

This role requires candidates who are comfortable working long shifts and completing sleep-ins as part of their regular rota.

Requirements

• To be 21 years of age or over
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
• At least 6 months' experience in residential childcare, schools, youth work or supported accommodation
• An Enhanced DBS, or willingness to obtain one
• The ability to work 24-hour shifts and sleep-ins

You will also receive specialist training including: PRICE restraint training, Developmental Trauma training, Therapeutic Parenting training and training around complex and emerging issues affecting young people

There are also opportunities for career progression within the organisation.

Additional benefits include:

• Fully supported professional qualifications
• Specialist therapeutic and trauma-informed training
• Career progression opportunities
• Employee discount scheme
• Opportunity to build a rewarding long-term career

If you're passionate about helping young people who have experienced trauma and want a role where you can genuinely make a difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today to find out more about these exciting Residential Support Worker opportunities with Budwood.