Residential Childcare Support Worker

Join Our Team as a Residential Childcare Support Worker!

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people? At Area Camden, part of the Polaris Community, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, family-style residential care for young individuals aged 11-18. We believe in fostering an environment built on respect, dignity, choice, and positive parenting. If you’re ready to support young people in their emotional, social, and academic development, we want to hear from you!

Salary & Contract Details

Unqualified:
Base salary of £30,277.23 with potential earnings up to £34,381.23 (including sleep-ins).

Qualified:
Base salary of £31,867.18 with potential earnings up to £35,971.18 (including sleep-ins). (Qualified salary is based on the completion of a Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare or equivalent)

Contract Type: Permanent

Specific Hours: 08:00 - 20:00 (12-hour shifts)

Location: Haverhill, Suffolk

What We Offer

• Comprehensive induction and mandatory training to support your development and progression.
• Fixed 12-hour shift rota (08:00-20:00):
  • Week 1: Mon, Tues, Sat, Sun (48 hours)
  • Week 2: Weds, Thurs, Fri (36 hours)
• Guaranteed minimum average of 168 hours per month.
• Waking Night contracts available.
• 236 hours annual leave per year, increasing by 12 hours annually for 3 years (up to 272 hours).
• Pension scheme (after qualifying period).
• Fully funded enrolment onto required qualifications.

Main Responsibilities

• Create a safe, nurturing environment that supports each young person's development.
• Provide emotional and social support, helping young people build positive relationships and engage in their local community.
• Promote confidence, self-esteem, and independence, encouraging positive life choices.
• Maintain accurate records, including daily updates, safeguarding information, and health and safety checks.
• Assess individual needs and contribute to planning, reviewing, and implementing care plans.
• Work collaboratively with managers, colleagues, and external professionals; supervise family contact when required.
• Support daily living needs in line with each young person's care plan.
• Assist with household tasks, meal planning, shopping, and preparing balanced meals, involving young people where appropriate.

Required Attributes

• Ability to engage with young people in a positive and proactive way.
• Self-motivated with a positive nature.
• Sensitive and reflective.
• Ability to listen and empathize.
• Ability to work individually and as part of a team.
• Experience working in the care sector or residential care.
• Hold a relevant qualification or be committed to undertaking a Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare - we are looking for passionate and caring individuals who we will support to gain a qualification.
• Willingness to work some bank holidays.

Area Camden is an equal opportunities employer and positively 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 an enhanced DBS check.

Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. Your journey starts here!