At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people in a semi-independent living environment and promote their independence.
- Company: Keys Group, a leader in innovative care and education services.
- Benefits: Fair pay, career development opportunities, and employee well-being support.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with excellent growth opportunities and a focus on well-being.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while developing your own skills.
- Qualifications: Must be 21+, with experience in care or working with young people preferred.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 23100 £ per year.
Location: Darlington, County Durham
Working Hours: Up to 24 hours per week
Shift Patterns: Monday-Friday 3PM (sleep-in finishing at 9AM) & Saturday-Sunday 7PM (sleep-in finishing at 8AM) on a rolling rota.
Requirements:
- Full UK Driving License with access to a vehicle - essential
Keys provide innovative care and education services to children and young people who have complex needs, emotional and behavioural difficulties. We try and make every day extraordinary for the children we care for and support, because we believe in every single one of them. It's an exciting time to join us as we expand and grow our teams in the region. We are looking for a compassionate, reliable, and dedicated Residential Support Worker to join our team, supporting young people aged 16–18 in a semi-independent group setting. This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about helping young people develop essential life skills, build confidence, and prepare for full independence.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide day-to-day support to young people in a semi-independent living environment.
- Promote independence through guidance with education, employment, finances, and daily living skills.
- Build positive, trusting relationships with young people.
- Maintain a safe, supportive, and structured home environment.
- Complete accurate records, reports, and support plans.
- Work collaboratively with external professionals, families, and internal teams.
- Safeguard and protect the welfare of all young people in your care.
Additional Requirements:
- Must be 21 years or over (due to regulatory requirements).
- Experience working with young people or within the care/child sector (preferred).
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people.
About You:
- Experience supporting children and young people with challenging needs (desired).
- Understanding of safeguarding, child protection, and behaviour management.
- Calm, resilient, and confident in managing challenging situations.
- Ability to build trust and positive, supportive relationships.
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Emotionally intelligent, empathetic, and patient.
Benefits:
- DBS Check Paid - Your Enhanced DBS check is fully covered by Keys Group, along with any required renewals.
- Qualifications & Career Development - Unlock your potential with our support! We offer a variety of QCF qualifications, providing opportunities for professional growth and opening doors to further career advancement.
- Fair & Competitive Pay - At Keys Group, we pride ourselves on fair and competitive pay. As a Real Living Wage Employer, we ensure fair pay for all, with enhanced pay scales that transparently recognise your qualifications and experience.
- Blue Light Card - Access discounts at High Street retailers, days out, gifts, holidays, and even when buying a car.
- Referral Bonus - Refer talented individuals to Keys Group and split a £500 bonus when they successfully join and complete their probation.
- Care First - Employee Assistance Program for confidential support.
- Circle - Your hub for wellbeing, engagement, and discounts.
- NEST Pension Scheme - Save for your retirement with a matched contribution of up to 3% from Keys Group.
- Long Service Awards - A heartfelt thank you for everything you do.
- Cycle to Work Scheme - Save up to 42% on a brand-new bike and accessories.
- Full Induction & Introductory Programme - Comprehensive onboarding to set you up for success.
About Keys: Keys Care provides safe, supportive homes for adults and children, offering tailored services and specialist support to help people thrive. Through our Connected Support approach, we empower individuals to build stability, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are also committed to supporting the Armed Forces community through our Armed Forces Covenant. Eligible candidates from military backgrounds are guaranteed an interview – please include details of your service on your CV. Please note that due to the vulnerable nature of the people that we support, all applicants must be over the age of 21.
Support Worker - Darlington employer: Keys Children
Keys Group is an exceptional employer located in Darlington, County Durham, dedicated to providing innovative care and education services for children and young people with complex needs. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we offer competitive pay, comprehensive training, and career development opportunities, alongside unique benefits like the Blue Light Card and Employee Assistance Program. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive work culture that values compassion and teamwork.
