Waking Nights - Children's Residential Support Worker

About the role

As a Children's Residential Support Worker, you will be a crucial part of the team providing a professional, child-centred service in accordance with the relevant regulations, legislation, and policy and procedures. You will take on the role of a corporate parent, ensuring the welfare and safety of children and young people, and provide high-quality support to ensure the best outcomes.

We have a number of roles available, so we are interested in hearing from candidates who are experienced support workers with a children or young people background, as well as those who have the transferable skills and drive to make a positive difference in the lives of young people. We can provide ongoing support and training, as well as the option to complete your QCF Level 3 once your probationary term is successfully completed.

This is a waking nights position working 22 hours per week on a shift pattern rota. You will need to work the required shift patterns including weekends, overnights, late shifts and bank holidays.

Key responsibilities include:

• Taking on the role of a corporate parent, providing our children and young people with love and direction
• Connecting with and building meaningful relationships with children and young people who have had complex early lives
• Taking immediate action when the welfare or safety of children or young people is at risk
• Delivering high-quality support and guidance in order to promote the best outcomes possible for children in placement
• Supporting children and young people to feel safe in their home and supporting their settling during the night

To apply, please click the link to apply online. For an informal discussion, please contact Vykie Wallace, Children's Homes Residential Manager at Victoria.Wallace@wokingham.gov.uk (Strictly no agencies).

About You

We are looking for someone with the ability to engage with children and teenagers who have complex emotional needs. You should be flexible and willing to support the smooth running of the home, taking pride in the environment that the children and young people live in.

The ideal candidate will:

• Hold a professional qualification in QCF Level 3 in Residential Childcare, or equivalent, or be willing to work towards this within the statutory timescales
• Have the ability to engage with children and teenagers who have complex emotional needs
• Have 2 years' experience in Social Care (desirable)
• Be able to work the required shift patterns including weekends, overnights, late shifts and bank holidays
• Be able to connect with and build meaningful relationships with children and young people who have had complex early lives

Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant employment checks. If your application is shortlisted for an interview, you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK.

Wokingham Borough Offer to You

Not only is this an excellent opportunity, but it's a fantastic time to join our team. You will receive an extensive range of employee benefits including:

• Generous Annual Leave entitlement of 27 days per annum (pro-rata, rising by 5 days after 5 years of continued local government service), plus bank holidays
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• GP Helpline – Available 7 days per week
• Employee Assistance Programme - Including a 24/7 Your Care Helpline
• Free Eye Tests and Flu Vaccines
• Free Onsite Gym - Located at Shute End Offices, Wokingham
• And much more!