At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children and young people overnight, ensuring their safety and emotional well-being.
- Company: CareTech is dedicated to providing exceptional care in a nurturing environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay and the chance to make a real difference in young lives.
- Why this job: This role offers a fulfilling opportunity to support vulnerable individuals while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Experience is a plus, but a caring attitude and strong observational skills are essential.
- Other info: Full-time position with 40 hours per week; no work sponsorship available.
Job Description
WE DO NOT OFFER WORK SPONSORSHIP
Make a lasting impact – one quiet night at a time.
Are you a calm, compassionate, and resilient individual looking to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children and young people? We are seeking a Waking Nights Support Worker to join our dedicated team at our Children’s Residential Home.
This role is crucial in providing safety, stability, and emotional reassurance through the night. As part of a therapeutic and trauma-informed environment, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring the children in our care feel safe, secure, and supported – even while the rest of the world sleeps.
About Us
Our residential home provides a nurturing and structured environment for children and young people aged [Insert Age Range] who have experienced trauma, neglect, or significant challenges in their early lives. We work closely with social workers, therapists, and educational professionals to offer a holistic and child-centred care approach.
About the Role
As a Waking Nights Support Worker, you will:
Provide emotional reassurance and a calm, consistent presence throughout the night.Monitor the wellbeing of the children and respond to any distress, incidents, or needs during the night.Complete thorough and accurate documentation, including logs, safeguarding reports, and handovers to the day team.Support bedtime and morning routines, including waking the children, preparing breakfast, and assisting with personal care if needed.Conduct regular checks around the home to ensure it remains a safe, secure, and peaceful environment.Help maintain a therapeutic and stable atmosphere in line with the home’s care plans and behavioural strategies.
This role is waking, not sleeping. You’ll be awake and alert throughout the shift to ensure full supervision and support is provided.
About You
We’re looking for someone who:
Has a natural empathy for children and young people.Can remain calm and responsive in emotionally charged or challenging situations.Is reliable, resilient, and understands the importance of professional boundaries.Can work independently through the night while remaining part of a supportive team.Has excellent written communication skills for clear and effective reporting.Is flexible and committed to the needs of the home and its residents.
New staff must be comfortable using an electronic care recording system on a daily basis to document, monitor, and update children and young people’s records accurately. Experience with Clearcare is an advantage, but not essential, as full training will be provided. However, all staff are expected to confidently use digital systems as part of their day-to-day role.
Desirable:
Experience in a similar role or within a residential childcare setting.NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or willing to work towards it).Knowledge of safeguarding, trauma-informed practice, and behaviour management techniques.
What We Offer
Fully funded qualifications and continuous professional development.24/7 employee wellbeing support.A supportive, inclusive team culture.Career progression opportunities within a growing organisation.Paid holiday, pension scheme, and other employee benefits.
Join us and become a trusted guardian in the quiet hours – helping children sleep safely, dream freely, and wake up stronger.
Support Worker - Waking Nights employer: CareTech
Contact Detail:
CareTech Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Worker - Waking Nights
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children and young people during night shifts. Understanding their emotional and physical requirements can help you demonstrate your suitability for the role during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have, even if it's not directly in a support worker role. Skills from previous jobs or volunteer work that showcase your caring nature and ability to handle challenging situations will be beneficial.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss safeguarding and child protection procedures in detail. Showing that you understand these critical aspects of the role will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the care sector. Engaging with current support workers or joining relevant online forums can provide insights and tips that may help you during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Support Worker - Waking Nights
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Support Worker Waking Nights position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if you don't have direct experience, emphasise any relevant skills or experiences that demonstrate your caring nature, patience, and ability to work with children or vulnerable individuals.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for supporting children and young people. Use specific examples to illustrate your commitment to their safety and well-being during night shifts.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at CareTech
✨Show Your Compassion
In a role like Support Worker Waking Nights, demonstrating your caring nature is crucial. Be prepared to share examples of how you've supported others in the past, especially in challenging situations.
✨Understand Safeguarding Procedures
Familiarise yourself with safeguarding and child protection procedures before the interview. This knowledge will show that you take the safety and well-being of children seriously, which is essential for this role.
✨Highlight Your Observational Skills
During the interview, emphasise your ability to observe and respond to the needs of children. Share specific instances where your observational skills made a difference in a previous role or situation.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities during night shifts. Think about how you would handle various situations, such as a child feeling anxious or needing assistance during the night.