Job Description:

Children's Residential Support Worker – Therapeutic Care

Location: Maylandsea, Essex
Salary: £28,392 – £33,025 per annum
Working Pattern: 3 shifts per week
Shift Times: 7:45am – 10:00pm

Be the Difference in a Young Person's Life

Do you want a career where you can genuinely change lives, build meaningful relationships and help children develop the confidence to reach their potential?

We are looking for caring, enthusiastic and resilient Children's Residential Support Workers to join a dedicated team at a residential children's home in Maylandsea, Essex.

The home supports children aged 5–16 who may have experienced trauma or face emotional and behavioural challenges. These young people need more than day-to-day care; they need adults who will listen, encourage them and provide the stability they need to move forward.

As part of the team, you will help create a positive, structured and nurturing environment where every child has the opportunity to feel safe, develop new skills and build a brighter future.

What Will You Be Doing?

No two days are the same in residential childcare. You will be involved in all aspects of daily life, helping young people navigate challenges, celebrate achievements and develop the skills they need for the future.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Building trusting relationships: Becoming a consistent and positive role model whom young people can turn to for guidance and support.

• Providing individualised care: Understanding each child's needs and adapting your approach to help them feel safe, respected and valued.

• Supporting everyday life: Helping with daily routines, personal development, recreational activities and other aspects of home life.

• Encouraging positive choices: Helping children develop emotional resilience, manage challenging situations and build healthy relationships.

• Promoting independence: Teaching practical life skills and encouraging young people to develop confidence and take on new responsibilities.

• Maintaining accurate records: Completing reports, recording significant events and contributing to care plans to support each child's progress.

• Working collaboratively: Communicating with colleagues and other professionals to ensure children receive consistent, high-quality care.

Your Working Pattern

We recognise the importance of having a routine that works around your life outside of work.

The role offers a structured shift pattern designed to provide consistency and help you plan your time effectively.

• 3 shifts per week

• 14-hour shifts, running from 7:45am to 10:00pm

• A predictable working pattern to support work-life balance

What Are We Looking For?

You don't need to have all the answers, but you do need the right attitude, a genuine interest in helping children and the resilience to handle the challenges that residential care can bring.

We're looking for someone who has:

• Experience working with children or young people, ideally within a residential setting.

• A compassionate, patient and understanding approach.

• The confidence to manage challenging situations calmly and professionally.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

• Good organisational skills and an understanding of the importance of safeguarding.

• A willingness to learn, develop and embrace ongoing training.

• A full UK driving licence, which is preferred for this position.

Above all, you should be passionate about helping children overcome difficulties, recognise their strengths and achieve positive outcomes.

What You'll Get in Return

Joining the team means becoming part of an environment where your contribution matters and your professional development is encouraged.

Benefits include:

• Competitive annual salary of £28,392–£33,025, depending on experience and relevant factors.

• A consistent working pattern of three shifts per week.

• Ongoing training to build your skills and knowledge.

• Support from an experienced and committed team.

• Opportunities for career progression within residential childcare.

• Access to employee wellbeing resources and additional staff benefits.

• The opportunity to make a lasting difference to the lives of children and young people.

Start a Career That Matters

Working in children's residential care can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. A little encouragement, a consistent approach and a trusted relationship can make a significant difference to a young person's life.

If you're ready to bring your compassion, energy and commitment to a role where every day offers an opportunity to make a difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help children build the confidence, resilience and life skills they need for a brighter future.