Waking Nights Residential Support Worker

About the role

Wokingham Borough Council has a range of fantastic opportunities for established, or aspiring Residential Support Workers to join a brand-new residential children's home. This is a waking nights role, providing professional, child-centred care in accordance with relevant regulations, legislation, and policy and procedures.

As a corporate parent, you will be responsible for the welfare and safety of children and young people throughout the night, supporting them to feel settled and safe in their home. The role sits within a wider team committed to delivering high-quality support and achieving the best outcomes for children in placement.

This is a part-time, permanent role contracted at 22 hours per week. The shift pattern operates on a rota basis, covering evenings and nights including weekends and bank holidays. Candidates should be prepared to work overnight shifts and late shifts as required by the rota.

Key responsibilities include:

• Taking on the role of corporate parent, providing 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 a child or young person is at risk
• Supporting children and young people to feel safe and settled during the night
• Taking pride in the home environment and supporting it to always look its best

To apply, please submit your application online. Please note that CVs submitted without a fully completed online application form will not be accepted. Applications are reviewed on a daily basis and the advert may close early if suitable candidates are identified. For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Raul.jacques@wokingham.gov.uk — Children's Homes Residential Manager. Please note, no agencies.

About You

Wokingham Borough Council is keen to hear from candidates who are experienced support workers with a children or young people background, as well as those who have transferable skills and the drive to make a positive difference in young people's lives. Ongoing support and training are provided, and the council recognises that the right person may be at the start of their residential childcare career.

The ideal candidate will:

• Hold a recognised and current QCF Level 3 in Residential Childcare or equivalent, or be willing to work towards this qualification within the statutory timescales (the option to complete the QCF Level 3 is available once the probationary term is successfully completed)
• Have the ability to engage with children and teenagers who have complex emotional needs
• Have two years' experience in social care (desirable)
• Be able to work the required shift patterns, including weekends, overnights, late shifts, and bank holidays

Wokingham Borough Council is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. The 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 will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check along with other relevant pre-employment checks. If your application is shortlisted for interview, you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK at that stage, and again upon receiving a job offer. All offers are conditional and subject to the satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.

Wokingham Borough Council's Offer to You

This is a brand-new home and a genuine opportunity to be part of building something from the ground up. Support and training are embedded from the outset, with a clear pathway to further development for those who want it.

Employee benefits include:

• Generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days per annum (pro rata, rising by five days after five years of continued local government service), plus bank holidays
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme including a 24/7 Your Care Helpline, plus a GP Helpline available seven days a week
• Salary sacrifice schemes including car and Cycle to Work schemes
• Free eye tests, flu vaccines, and access to an onsite gym at Shute End Offices, Wokingham
• Local and lifestyle discounts on shopping, entertainment, and dining
• And much more, including sports and social group activities, employee networks, and learning and development opportunities