Children\'s Residential Support Worker in Hampshire

Who are Fair Ways and what do we stand for? At Fair Ways we believe in making a difference through passionate care, support and education. Together we aim to build an institution that makes a difference to society and leaves a legacy greater than ourselves and our contributions. Our values sit at the heart of everything we do; we measure our wealth by the difference we make, rather than the profit we make. Fair Ways is a leading children’s services charity based in the Solent, delivering fostering, education, residential and family services and caring for over 400 children, families, young people and vulnerable adults each year.

Location and Role Summary: Garden House is a residential children’s home that can accommodate up to 6 children aged between 6 and 14. The home provides a structured, homely, and nurturing environment for children who benefit from clear boundaries and structure, which we believe is the starting point to enable the children to achieve their potential, supporting our overall aim of transition into long‑term foster care. This position focuses on developing independent life skills within a therapeutic caring environment. Staff will be involved in a range of exciting activities such as quad biking, high rope courses, camping, rock climbing, horse riding, canoeing and more, as well as engaging day trips and accompanying the children on exciting holidays.

Responsibilities:

• Building respectful, impactful relationships: Proactively maintaining safe and respectful relationships with children through effective support, guidance and care, ensuring the maintenance of safe professional boundaries in line with best practice.
• Advocating for children in care and ensuring they have a voice: Engaging in key work responsibilities for nominated children within the home, providing the children in our care with a consistent adult presence and an identified member of the team linked to their specific support plans.
• Taking an active role in play, activities and confidence building: Being actively involved in the planning and execution of a range of enriching opportunities for the children through different mediums such as crafts, outdoor activities, play and learning to provide an enjoyable, varied and engaged home environment.
• Supporting positive lifestyle choices: Demonstrating the therapeutic importance of maintaining a clean, tidy and homely environment through effective role‑modelling and education, promoting high standards of physical care, hygiene and safety and demonstrating positive and healthy choices to support children to develop and thrive.
• Being a Trauma‑Informed professional: Using our industry‑recognised RiiSE training to deliver trauma‑informed responses through the individualised use of therapeutic and, where appropriate, physical intervention to ensure our children are supported appropriately during times of crisis.
• Keeping vulnerable children and young people safe: Managing any child protection issues that may occur through effective reporting in line with the policies and procedures of the residential home in partnership with the senior leadership team and any relevant external agency to keep children safe from harm for the duration of their placement with Fair Ways.

Working Hours / Shift Pattern: This role is offered on a full‑time/permanent basis, working on a rolling rota following a 4 on / 8 off shift pattern with 5 sleeps in any 8‑week period – this averages 1 sleep for each block of 4 days worked. Days start at 07:30 and finish 22:00. During this time you will have the opportunity to have all meals provided as part of your role, which will include mealtimes with the children and other staff.

Requirements: All candidates must have a full driving license and have access to the use of a car, although each home will have unit vehicles as a first option. Successful candidates will be required to provide an enhanced Disclosure (DBS). This disclosure cost will be met by Fair Ways. Fair Ways are unable to provide VISA sponsorship for this role and all applicants will need to be able to provide evidence of right to work in the UK.

Desirable – but Not Essential: Previous experience of working with children and young people with health, social care or educational needs. A Level 3 qualification in a CYPW Diploma in childcare or equivalent.

Benefits:

• Exciting Opportunities: Participate in free staff lotteries with amazing prizes, such as £1000 holiday vouchers, weekend get‑aways, luxury hampers, a £1000 fostering referral scheme and vouchers.
• Work‑Life Balance: Enjoy a Holiday Accrual Scheme, an extra day of annual leave as a ‘wellbeing day’ and the option to purchase additional holidays (up to 5 days).
• Health and Support: Benefit from Simply Health, our health cash plan, and access to our Employee Assistance Scheme, providing emergency financial assistance and 24/7 counselling services. Access your salary when you need it with Early Pay – the ability to withdraw an amount of your salary early each month to assist with unforeseen circumstances.
• Growth and Development: Unlock your potential with our Education Grant, offering funding for accreditation up to master’s level. Engage in leadership courses to enhance your skills and progress in your career.
• Wellbeing Matters: Experience team‑building days, summer festivals and well‑being initiatives, promoting a positive work environment. Take advantage of discounted gym memberships and a cycle‑to‑work scheme to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Recognition and Rewards: Be appreciated for your dedication through annual Staff Awards and Long Service Awards. Build a secure future with our pension scheme and gain eligibility for a Blue Light Card.
• Supportive Community: Be part of our diverse workforce that embraces all communities. We value your unique perspective and encourage you to contribute to our inclusive and vibrant culture. Benefits may differ dependent on contract type.

Apply: Become a part of our community – we can’t wait to meet you! If you’re passionate about making a difference and are ready to embark on an incredible journey, apply today and be a part of something amazing at Fair Ways. Join our team and help shape brighter futures!