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- Tasks: Support young people with learning disabilities during the night, ensuring their safety and well-being.
- Company: CareTech is a leading provider of specialist therapeutic support for young people in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free meals on shift, and a fully funded qualification.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while gaining valuable experience in a rewarding environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in residential childcare preferred; Level 3 qualification is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: Flexible hours and opportunities for career growth await you!
Overview
Location: Torbay & Plymouth
Contract: Bank / Zero Hour Contract, Full Time, Part Time
Role Type: Permanent
Salary: £14.60 per hour
Closing Date: Sunday 22 February 2026
Waking Nights Support Worker
Location: Torbay & Plymouth
Shift Time: 9:00pm – 9:00am
Hourly Rate: £14.60 per hour
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 within our Children’s Residential Homes across Torbay and Plymouth.
This is a crucial role, providing safety, stability, and emotional reassurance throughout the night in a therapeutic, trauma-informed environment. You’ll help ensure the children in our care feel safe, secure, and supported during the hours when they need it most.
About Us
Our residential homes provide a nurturing, structured, and child-centred environment for children and young people who have experienced trauma, neglect, or significant early-life challenges. We work closely with social workers, therapists, and education professionals to deliver holistic care that supports emotional wellbeing, resilience, and positive long-term outcomes.
About The Role
As a Waking Nights Support Worker, you will:
- Provide a calm, consistent, and reassuring presence throughout the night
- Monitor children’s wellbeing and respond appropriately to any distress, incidents, or needs
- Carry out regular checks to ensure the home remains safe, secure, and peaceful
- Maintain accurate documentation, including night logs, safeguarding records, and handovers for the day team
- Support bedtime and morning routines, including waking children, preparing breakfast, and assisting with personal care where required
- Promote a therapeutic and stable environment in line with individual care plans and behavioural strategies
This is a waking role. You will be required to remain awake and alert for the full duration of the shift.
About You
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has a natural empathy for children and young people
- Can remain calm and emotionally responsive in challenging situations
- Is reliable, resilient, and understands professional boundaries
- Is confident working independently through the night while being part of a wider team
- Has strong written communication skills for clear and accurate reporting
- Is flexible and committed to the needs of the home and its residents
Desirable
- Experience in residential childcare or a similar support role
- NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or willingness to work towards it)
- Knowledge of safeguarding, trauma-informed practice, and behaviour management techniques
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly rate of £14.60 per hour
- Fully Funded Qualifications And Ongoing Professional Development
- 24/7 employee wellbeing support
- A supportive, inclusive, and values-led team culture
- Clear career progression opportunities within a growing organisation
- Paid holiday, pension scheme, and additional employee benefits
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Waking Nights- Support Worker employer: CareTech
Contact Detail:
CareTech Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Waking Nights- Support Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of young people with learning disabilities, autism, and epilepsy. Understanding these conditions will not only help you connect better with the individuals you'll be supporting but also demonstrate your commitment to their well-being during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have in a residential childcare environment. Even if it's informal, sharing stories about how you've supported young people in similar settings can make a strong impression on the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding working hours. Since this role involves waking nights, showing that you're open to working evenings, weekends, and unsociable hours will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research CareTech and its values before your interview. Being able to articulate why you want to work for them and how you align with their mission to support young people will show your genuine interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Waking Nights- Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Waking Nights Support Worker. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of young people with learning disabilities, autism, and epilepsy, as well as the importance of creating a safe and nurturing environment.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight any relevant experience in residential childcare or similar roles. If you have qualifications like the Level 3 Children’s and Young People qualification, be sure to mention them prominently. Use keywords from the job description to align your CV with what CareTech is looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for making a difference in young people's lives. Share specific examples of how you've supported individuals in the past, and express your enthusiasm for joining CareTech's dedicated team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at CareTech
✨Show Your Passion for Care
Make sure to express your genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of young people. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to work in this field, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Communication Methods
Since some young people may use alternative communication methods like Makaton and Smartbox devices, it’s beneficial to familiarise yourself with these tools. Demonstrating knowledge about how to effectively communicate with non-verbal individuals can set you apart.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
If you have experience in a residential childcare environment, be sure to highlight it during the interview. Discuss specific situations where you made a positive impact on a child's life, showcasing your skills and adaptability.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and approach to challenging situations. Prepare examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle difficult scenarios with empathy and professionalism.
