At a Glance
- Tasks: Support unaccompanied asylum-seeking children in a residential setting and help them thrive.
- Company: Kent County Council, a leader in providing care for UAS children.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace welcoming diverse applicants; flexible shift patterns available.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with UAS children and a passion for direct support work.
The predicted salary is between 23800 - 26500 € per year.
Kent County Council's Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking (UAS) Children's Service provides accommodation and support to newly arrived UAS children in Kent. The Service is developing as a centre of excellence nationally and we are seeking passionate individuals to join our service.
Reception Centres, staffing and services KCC provides to UAS children are fully funded by Central Government. The Reception and Safe Care Services are Kent County Council owned, Ofsted regulated, children's homes and supported accommodation, collectively termed Reception Centres. The Reception Centres, and the services they provide to children, are run by a diverse team of managers and workers, who are all committed to ensuring children are protected and supported to take the first steps in their journey to a more permanent home elsewhere in the UK.
Maple Rise is based in Ashford, Kent and is named after the Maple Trees of Vietnam. It is a children's home for UAS children aged under 16 years, with a capacity of up to 10 children. Located in a residential area not far from another Reception Centre (Memona Lodge), Maple Rise is well‑located for children to access a variety of services and recreational spaces. The home has well established links with local services and organisations in the community for young people to access a variety of activities. This Reception Centre is subject to Ofsted regulations for Children's Homes 2015.
We are seeking Residential Support Workers who have experience of working alongside UAS children and who thrive on direct work and providing support in a residential setting. This role involves managing routines, setting goals for young people, timekeeping and facilitating a learning culture in the centre. This position is customer‑facing. The Council requires post holders to have a command of spoken English/Welsh sufficient for effective performance of the job requirements.
This post requires working across a rolling shift pattern, with weekly alternating shifts and regular cover over weekends. The rota pattern is 4 shifts on, followed by 2 rest days; each block of 4 shifts alternates between 8:00 am–4:30 pm and 1:30 pm–10:00 pm.
Applicants must be 21 years of age or above, to meet Ofsted regulations. This role does not meet the Home Office eligibility criteria for sponsorship.
Full induction Training and development opportunities Basic salary of between £27,852 and £29,716 Equivalent annual leave allowance of 28 to 30 days Excellent local government pension scheme Opportunities to develop in your career The opportunity to expand and develop your knowledge and skills of working with children seeking asylum.
We encourage applications from people of all ages, abilities, genders, sexual orientations, ethnic backgrounds, faiths and those with caring responsibilities, and aspire to create an inclusive workplace where everyone can be themselves at work. Please note – if you are interested, please apply soon as possible as the closing date for this advert may be earlier than stated should a number of suitably qualified candidates apply.
Residential Support Worker in Ashford employer: Kent County Council
Kent County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment for Residential Support Workers dedicated to making a difference in the lives of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children. With comprehensive training and development opportunities, competitive salaries, and a robust local government pension scheme, employees can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to a service recognised as a national centre of excellence. Located in Ashford, Kent, Maple Rise provides a nurturing atmosphere where staff can engage with local services and recreational activities, enhancing the overall experience for both workers and the children they support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Residential Support Worker in Ashford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Kent County Council and their UAS Children's Service. Understanding their values and mission will help you connect during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the role and the work culture, plus it shows your enthusiasm for joining the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions! Think about scenarios you might face as a Residential Support Worker and how you'd handle them. This will help you demonstrate your problem-solving skills and experience with UAS children.
✨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 passionate candidates who are eager to join our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Support Worker in Ashford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting UAS children shine through. We want to see why you care about this role and how your experiences have shaped your desire to make a difference.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission at StudySmarter and the specific needs of the role.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a great fit for the Residential Support Worker position.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent County Council
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Residential Support Worker. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children and how you can support them in a residential setting.
✨Show Your Passion for the Cause
During the interview, express your genuine passion for working with UAS children. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to making a positive impact in their lives. This will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage routines. Think about past experiences where you've successfully handled challenging situations and be ready to discuss them in detail.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the team dynamics, training opportunities, and the specific challenges faced by the Reception Centres. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
