At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with learning disabilities in a nurturing residential home.
- Company: Join a compassionate team dedicated to empowering young lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusivity in a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in children's care and a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare preferred.
Location: Erith, London
Job Types: Full time, Permanent
Salary: £31,300 – £34,000 per year (£15.05 – £16.35 per hour)
Hours: 40 hours per week
Additional Payments: Sleep-in shifts paid at £65 per shift. Overtime paid at the equivalent hourly rate.
We are recruiting on behalf of our client for an experienced and compassionate Senior Support Worker to join a specialist children's residential service supporting young people with learning disabilities and complex needs. This is an exciting opportunity to join a small, nurturing home that provides high-quality, person-centred care to children and young people aged 8–18. The service is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where young people can develop independence, build confidence, and achieve positive outcomes. The home is registered for up to four children and currently supports young people with significant learning disabilities who require consistent, structured, and specialist support from a dedicated staff team.
About the Role
As a Senior Support Worker, you will play a key role in supporting the day-to-day running of the home while providing high-quality care and guidance to children and young people. Working closely with the Deputy Manager and Registered Manager, you will support care planning, safeguarding, staff guidance, and the delivery of therapeutic, person-centred support. You will also act as a role model for colleagues, helping to maintain high standards of care, compliance, and professional practice throughout the home. In the absence of senior management, you will take responsibility for leading shifts, supporting staff, and ensuring the home continues to operate safely and effectively.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide high-quality, person-centred support to children and young people with learning disabilities and complex needs
- Build positive, trusting relationships with young people, families, and professionals
- Support the implementation and review of care plans, support plans, risk assessments, and educational objectives
- Conduct regular keyworker sessions and advocate for the views, wishes, and aspirations of young people
- Promote independence, emotional wellbeing, life skills development, and community participation
- Support young people to attend appointments, educational activities, family contact, and social opportunities
- Maintain accurate, professional, and compassionate records in line with regulatory requirements
- Lead shifts in the absence of the Deputy Manager, providing guidance and support to colleagues
- Support safeguarding processes and ensure the safety and wellbeing of young people at all times
- Assist with behaviour support strategies and de-escalation techniques when required
- Promote positive outcomes through reflective practice, teamwork, and continuous improvement
- Ensure compliance with Children's Homes Regulations, Quality Standards, and organisational policies
- Participate in sleep-in duties and contribute to the smooth running of the home
About You
- Previous experience working within a children's residential care setting
- Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent), or willingness to complete within the required timeframe
- Experience supporting children and young people with learning disabilities, complex needs, or additional support requirements
- Strong understanding of safeguarding, child protection, and children's residential care regulations
- Experience leading shifts or supporting less experienced staff members
- Excellent communication, organisational, and record-keeping skills
- Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations
- Positive, caring, and resilient approach to supporting young people
- Commitment to continuous professional development and reflective practice
- Full UK driving licence desirable
Benefits
- Competitive base salary
- Clear career progression and development opportunities
- Refer-a-friend program offering generous rewards
- Extensive training and support, including financial assistance to obtain the Level 5 Diploma and other pertinent training and qualifications
At Olive Recruit, we are committed to fostering a workplace culture that embraces diversity and promotes inclusivity. Our core values, Integrity, Impact, Inclusivity, and Innovation, guide our efforts to create an environment where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered to excel. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All colleagues are expected to share this commitment and participate fully in safeguarding training and processes. The successful applicant will undergo a free enhanced disclosure from the disclosure barring service and other compliance checks required.
Senior Support Worker in Erith employer: Olive Recruit
At Olive Recruit, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive work environment for our Senior Support Workers in Erith, London. With competitive salaries, extensive training opportunities, and a commitment to employee growth, we empower our staff to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people with complex needs. Our core values of Integrity, Impact, Inclusivity, and Innovation ensure that every team member feels valued and supported, making it a rewarding place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Support Worker in Erith
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the care sector, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to support work. Think about your experiences with children and young people, especially those with learning disabilities. We want you to showcase your compassion and skills!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on places that align with your values. Check out our website for roles that resonate with your passion for supporting young people. Tailor your approach to each opportunity!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. It’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for the Senior Support Worker position.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Support Worker in Erith
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Support Worker role. Highlight your experience with children and young people, especially those with learning disabilities and complex needs. We want to see how your skills align with our values and the specific responsibilities of the job.
Showcase Your Compassion:In your application, let your caring nature shine through! Share examples of how you've built positive relationships with young people and families in previous roles. We’re looking for someone who can connect with our residents and support their emotional wellbeing.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Olive Recruit
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of a Senior Support Worker. Familiarise yourself with person-centred care, safeguarding processes, and how to support young people with learning disabilities. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, share specific examples of how you've built trusting relationships with young people or families in your previous roles. Highlight your compassionate approach and how it has positively impacted those you’ve supported. This will demonstrate that you have the right mindset for this nurturing environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about challenging situations you might face as a Senior Support Worker. Think of scenarios where you had to use de-escalation techniques or lead a shift. Prepare your responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly outline your thought process and actions.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how they measure success in supporting young people. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values.
