Pay: £16.00 per hour
Job Description:
Senior Support Worker – Children’s Residential Services
Location: [Maidstone ME16] | Hours: [Full-time /Weekends] | Salary: [£16ph]
Support. Lead. Make a lasting difference.
We’re looking for a Senior Support Worker with solid experience in children’s residential care to join our team. You’ll play a key role in delivering day-to-day support, while also stepping up to lead shifts, guide team members, and help ensure the home runs smoothly and safely.
If you understand what it takes to create a safe, nurturing, and well-managed home environment, and you’re ready to take on more responsibility, we want to hear from you.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Provide high-quality care and emotional support to children, aligned with individual care plans
- Lead by example on shifts, supporting and guiding the wider team
- Assist with the planning and oversight of daily routines, activities, and key working sessions
- Ensure compliance with safeguarding, health & safety, and regulatory standards
- Maintain and oversee accurate documentation, including daily logs, incident reports, and care plans
- Support the Deputy and Registered Manager with audits, rota planning, and staff mentoring
- Communicate effectively with external professionals, families, and key stakeholders
- Help foster a positive, stable, and homely environment where children feel safe and valued
What We’re Looking For
Previous experience in a children’s residential care setting is essential
- Strong understanding of how a home operates including safeguarding, shift planning, and care standards
- Proven ability to lead and support a team during shifts
- Familiarity with key legislation and frameworks (e.g. Children’s Homes Regulations, Ofsted standards)
- Confident in handling challenging behaviours and responding appropriately
- Excellent communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills
- Able to write clear, professional reports and keep accurate digital records
- Full UK driving licence preferred
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a dedicated and experienced team who put children at the heart of everything
- Real career progression supported pathways into Deputy Manager roles
- Access to ongoing training and qualifications, including leadership development
- Competitive salary, enhanced rates for sleep-ins or on-call (if applicable)
- Mileage and travel expenses paid (if applicable)
Take the next step in your care career.
If you’re ready to lead, support, and make a meaningful impact in a child’s life we would love to hear from you.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Free parking
- Transport links
Experience:
- Childcare: 3 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person