At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for vulnerable children.
- Company: Join a supportive team at Swanwick Lodge, dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, and comprehensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive culture that values empathy and respect.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on children's lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in maintenance and a strong understanding of health and safety regulations.
The predicted salary is between 25186 - 26244 £ per year.
Join our supportive team as a Caretaker/Facilities Assistant and play an essential role in the everyday running of our service. At Swanwick Lodge, we provide a safe, secure and therapeutic environment for some of our most vulnerable children in a specialist, secure residential home, looking after up to ten children with complex attachment, mental health and behavioural needs. You’ll ensure Swanwick Lodge is safe, secure, well‑maintained and welcoming at all times for children, staff and visitors. Your dedication, compassion and commitment to the highest standards will enhance the quality of life and wellbeing of those who need our support.
What you’ll do
- Maintenance: Carry out day‑to‑day maintenance, repairs and grounds upkeep, reducing the need for external contractors where appropriate.
- Health & Safety: Support the home in meeting health & safety, safeguarding and regulatory requirements.
- Build relationships: Establish positive connections with the children and your colleagues, while sharing our commitment to creating an inclusive culture.
What we’re looking for
- Health & safety expertise: Strong understanding of Health and Safety regulations and compliance.
- Practical maintenance experience: Proven ability in routine maintenance, repairs, and grounds upkeep.
- Site and contractor management: Experience overseeing site operations and working effectively with external contractors.
- Commitment to high standards: A genuine passion for helping others, delivering excellent care, and communicating clearly and respectfully with children.
- Empathy, patience, and respect: Ability to understand individual needs, build trust through compassion, and remain calm and dignified in challenging situations.
- Self‑motivated and adaptable: Resilient, able to work with minimal supervision, and confident adapting positively to changing demands.
Benefits
- Meaningful work with strong support: Make a lasting positive impact on service users’ lives while working in a friendly, inclusive and collaborative team.
- Training and career development: Benefit from a comprehensive induction, ongoing training and clear opportunities to develop your skills and progress your career in care.
- Employee support: Access to Health Assured's comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme to support your physical and mental wellbeing, including 24/7 telephone support, a suite of online resources, and legal and financial advice.
- Competitive benefit package: Including generous annual leave entitlement, occupational sick pay, and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
The post is subject to a Criminal Records Check. Under safer recruitment requirements for Children’s Services, references will be requested prior to interview. Hampshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.
Caretaker/Facilities Assistant in Eastleigh employer: Hampshire County Council
At Hampshire County Council, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment at Swanwick Lodge. As a Caretaker/Facilities Assistant, you will not only contribute to the wellbeing of vulnerable children but also benefit from comprehensive training, career development opportunities, and a competitive benefits package that prioritises your health and wellbeing. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying a collaborative team culture that values empathy and respect.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Caretaker/Facilities Assistant in Eastleigh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, check out their website and social media. This will help you understand their values and how you can fit in, making it easier to connect with the team during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when discussing your experience and how it relates to the Caretaker/Facilities Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the role! During the interview, share specific examples of how you've made a positive impact in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for the children at Swanwick Lodge.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and reinforces your interest in the position. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Caretaker/Facilities Assistant in Eastleigh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for helping others shine through. We want to see your genuine commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for the children at Swanwick Lodge.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any practical maintenance experience you have. Whether it's repairs or grounds upkeep, we need to know how your skills align with the role of Caretaker/Facilities Assistant.
Demonstrate Health & Safety Knowledge:Since health and safety is a big part of this job, be sure to mention your understanding of regulations and compliance. We’re looking for someone who can help us maintain a secure environment for everyone.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this meaningful role in our supportive team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hampshire County Council
✨Know Your Health & Safety Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of health and safety regulations. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in past roles, especially in maintenance or facilities management. This shows you’re not just familiar with the rules but can also implement them effectively.
✨Show Off Your Maintenance Skills
Prepare examples of your practical maintenance experience. Think about specific repairs or upkeep tasks you've handled before. Being able to talk through your hands-on experience will demonstrate your capability and confidence in this role.
✨Build Rapport with the Team
Since this role involves working closely with children and staff, think about how you can establish positive connections. Share any past experiences where you’ve built relationships in a team setting or with vulnerable individuals. This will highlight your empathy and commitment to creating an inclusive environment.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle challenging situations. Prepare to discuss how you would respond to various scenarios involving children or maintenance issues. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and your calm, dignified approach under pressure.
