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- Tasks: Support children with disabilities during the night, providing care and companionship.
- Company: City of York Council, dedicated to innovative support for children with disabilities.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, health initiatives, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for working with children; training provided for those without experience.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and opportunities for job sharing available.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
The short breaks service for children with disabilities within the City of York has an exciting opportunity for a waking night support worker to join our short breaks team in York.
About the Service
This service is based within a purpose-built centre for children with disabilities, which ensures services for children with disabilities are innovative, flexible and integrated. Our Short Breaks offer provides services including community and residential short breaks provisions for children and young people with autism, learning disabilities and/or additional and complex health needs.
Experience and Training
Whilst experience of working with children with disabilities is preferred, it is not essential as training and support will be provided. Experience in social care, enthusiasm, and a passion for working with children to support their development is essential.
Role and Support
The role of a waking night support worker is an invaluable one. It is rewarding, complex and challenging and you will play an essential role in providing support and direct care to children during the night. You will be supported by a senior team, have a thorough induction into your role and also have opportunities for supervision, training and development to support the work that you do.
Qualifications and Commitments
You will be required to study towards a level 3 childcare qualification if you do not already have one. You may be expected to attend some shifts, training and meetings during the day and complete an induction before your waking night shifts.
Benefits and Working Arrangements
The Council is committed to investing in the talent and wellbeing of our staff and can offer a generous annual leave allowance, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, comprehensive Health & Wellbeing initiatives and a reward package which recognises your contribution. We can offer flexible working practices, community engagement and volunteer activities and, as part of our commitment to you, promote continuous Learning & Development. In addition, we also offer a growing range of discounts, rewards and savings.
Additional Details
This post is suitable as a job sharing position.
Public Interaction and Safeguarding
As this role is public facing, applicants will need to demonstrate, at interview, their competency to converse and provide advice and guidance to members of the public, in spoken English to CEFR level C1: Can express themselves fluently and spontaneously, almost effortlessly. Only a conceptually difficult subject can hinder a natural, smooth flow of language. City of York Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. We require the successful candidate to undertake an enhanced Criminal Record check via the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Contact and Application Details
For further information or an informal discussion please contact Wendy Berkett, Deputy Manager at wendy.berkett@york.gov.uk or on 07748933237.
Important Dates
Closing date: Wednesday 18 February 2026 at 12 midnight. Interview date: TBC.
Support Worker (Waking Nights) employer: City of York Council
Contact Detail:
City of York Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Worker (Waking Nights)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of social care, especially those who work with children with disabilities. Attend local events or online webinars to connect with potential employers and learn more about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions related to support work. Think about scenarios you might face and how you'd handle them. This will show your passion and readiness to take on the challenges of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your enthusiasm! When you get the chance to speak with hiring managers, let your passion for working with children shine through. Share any relevant experiences, even if they’re not directly related to disabilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our services.
We think you need these skills to ace Support Worker (Waking Nights)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in supporting their development and how you can make a difference in their lives.
Tailor Your Experience: Even if you don’t have direct experience with children with disabilities, highlight any relevant skills or experiences that showcase your ability to support and care for others. We value passion and willingness to learn just as much!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your qualifications and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the waking night support worker role.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at City of York Council
✨Know the Service Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research the short breaks service and its mission. Understanding the specific needs of children with disabilities and how the service operates will show your genuine interest and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share any relevant experiences, even if they are not directly related to disabilities, and explain why you’re passionate about supporting their development.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations that may arise during your shifts. Think of examples from your past experiences where you demonstrated patience, empathy, and problem-solving skills, as these are crucial in this role.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since the role involves public interaction, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might be asked to explain how you would communicate with children and their families, so be ready to showcase your ability to converse fluently and provide guidance.
