Residential Support Worker

Join Our Team as a Residential Support Worker!

Company: Budwood Limited
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Salary: Up to £36,768.20 (including sleep-in shifts, based on qualifications and experience)
Location: Dorchester
Specific Hours: Average 38 hours per week - rotating shift pattern

Are You Ready to Make a Difference?

At Budwood, part of the Polaris Community, we believe in the power of change. We provide residential care and support for children and young people who have faced challenging beginnings. Our mission is to create safe, stable, and nurturing environments where they can rebuild their confidence, learn new skills, and pave the way to a brighter future.

This isn’t just a job; it’s a chance to transform lives. We’re on the lookout for compassionate and motivated Residential Support Workers to join our Dorchester team. Every day brings new challenges and rewards as you support young people, foster positive relationships, and help them realize their potential. Whether you’re experienced or just starting out, what matters most is your attitude, eagerness to learn, and genuine desire to help others. We’ll provide you with comprehensive training to ensure you feel confident from day one.

At Budwood, you’ll be part of a friendly, supportive team where your contributions are valued, and your growth is encouraged.

Your Role and Responsibilities

As a Residential Support Worker, you will play a vital role in the lives of children and young people, providing them with a safe and welcoming home. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Supporting young people with their daily routines
• Building positive relationships and becoming a trusted adult
• Helping them develop confidence, life skills, and independence
• Ensuring they feel safe, supported, and encouraged every day

Experience with children or young people is a plus, but we’re here to support you every step of the way with training and guidance.

Working Pattern

Your shifts will be on a rotating schedule:

• Each shift lasts 24 hours, including paid sleep-in time
• Typically, you’ll complete two or three shifts in a row
• Expect a mix of weekdays and weekends
• Opportunities for overtime are available if you wish

What We’re Looking For

To thrive in this role, you should meet the following requirements:

• Hold a Level 3 qualification in Childcare, Health and Social Care, or be willing to work towards it
• Possess a full UK driving licence and access to a car for travel
• Be friendly and able to communicate effectively with children and colleagues
• Be willing to undergo an enhanced DBS check (cost covered by us)

What We Offer You

At Budwood, we value our team and provide a range of benefits to support your career and well-being:

• Comprehensive training to help you succeed
• Up to 6 weeks of holiday per year
• Company pension scheme
• £64 per night sleep-in allowance
• All meals provided while on duty
• Access to the Exchange Employee Discount Scheme
• Well-being support through the Exchange Provision
• Career progression opportunities
• Monthly clinical and professional supervision, plus access to therapeutic support

Ready to Make a Meaningful Impact?

If you’re passionate about supporting young people and want to build a rewarding career, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now and become part of a team that makes a real difference every single day. We also welcome applications for casual bank roles.

Budwood Limited is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all qualified 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 an enhanced DBS check.