Residential Childcare Support Worker

Join Our Team as a Residential Support Worker!

Company: Apple Orchard

Location: Horsham, West Sussex

Contract: Full Time, Permanent

Specific Hours: 40 hours per week - shift pattern

Starting Salary:

Base salary of £29,046.53 with the potential to earn up to £30,866.53 with sleep-in shifts.

Salary after probation: Base salary of £30,252.35 with the potential to earn up to £32,072.35 with sleep-in shifts.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and sleep-in allowances (£35 per night, typically one per week)
• Every other weekend off
• Fully funded qualifications and professional development
• Clear promotion pathways and career progression
• Company pension
• Access to employee discount and wellbeing programmes

About Apple Orchard:

At Apple Orchard, we operate five residential homes across Surrey and West Sussex, creating calm, therapeutic environments for boys aged 12-18 who have faced trauma or disruption. Our mission is to help young people heal, grow, and reach their full potential.

Join a supportive, dedicated team that values compassion, resilience, and teamwork. Whether you're experienced or new to residential childcare, if you're passionate about making a positive difference, we want to hear from you!

What You'll Do:

As a Support Worker, you'll be instrumental in the daily lives and development of the young people in our care. Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive home environment
• Planning and leading activities that build confidence, skills, and positive routines
• Forming stable, trusting relationships to help young people move toward independence
• Keeping clear, accurate records of behaviour, progress, and achievements
• Collaborating with local authorities and external professionals to maintain excellent care standards
• Being an active, supportive member of a dedicated, energetic team

What We're Looking For:

Essential:

• A genuine passion for making a positive difference in young people's lives
• Experience working with teenagers or challenging behaviours (preferred)
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and sleep-ins
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (needed due to rural locations)

Desirable:

• Level 3 Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner/Health & Social Care qualification - or willingness to work towards it
• Ability to manage behaviour with calmness, empathy, and consistency
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• A team-focused attitude, good sense of humour, and emotional resilience
• Confidence in following procedures, writing reports, and contributing to care plans

Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to a DBS check at an enhanced level.