Purpose of the Role

As a Senior Residential Support Worker, you will take a key leadership role within a children’s residential care setting. You will be responsible for leading shifts, supervising staff, and ensuring that high standards of care, safeguarding, and regulatory compliance are consistently maintained. This is an opportunity to make a genuine impact on the lives of children and young people while progressing your leadership skills in a supportive and structured environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead shifts with confidence, acting as the senior decision-maker in the absence of management.

• Supervise, mentor, and support junior staff, contributing to a positive and professional team culture.

• Ensure the effective implementation of individual care plans, risk assessments, and daily routines.

• Take a proactive role in safeguarding and child protection, escalating concerns in accordance with policy.

• Provide structure and consistency in daily routines, promoting a stable and nurturing environment.

• Support the development of rotas and staff deployment, ensuring appropriate coverage and continuity of care.

• Liaise professionally with social workers, families, education providers, and other external agencies.

• Assist in preparing for inspections and contribute to regulatory compliance (including Ofsted readiness).

• Role model best practice in residential childcare, including trauma-informed approaches and de-escalation strategies.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Essential:

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) — must be held to apply for a senior role

• Experience in residential childcare, with evidence of shift leading responsibilities

• Leadership or Shift Management training (internal or external)

• Safeguarding training (Level 2 or 3)

• First Aid and Health & Safety certification

Desirable:

• Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health & Social Care (Children & Young People’s Services)

• Advanced training in behaviour management, attachment theory, or trauma-informed care

• Training in de-escalation and behaviour management approaches (e.g., MAPA, Team Teach, PRICE, NAPI)

• Supervision and appraisal skills training

• Understanding of child development, emotional resilience, and therapeutic models of care

What We Offer

• A supportive and inclusive working environment where staff are valued

• Comprehensive training and opportunities for career progression into management roles

• Ongoing professional development, including access to specialist training

• Competitive salary and benefits package

• The chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children and young people

Apply Now

If you are a compassionate, resilient, and experienced childcare professional looking to take the next step in your career, we would love to hear from you.