At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with learning disabilities in a nurturing residential home.
- Company: Join a compassionate team dedicated to empowering children and young adults.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, extensive training, and refer-a-friend rewards.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusivity in a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in children's care and a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare preferred.
The predicted salary is between 31300 - 34000 £ per year.
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 & other compliance checks required.
Senior Support Worker in London 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 London
✨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 and how they align with the role of a Senior Support Worker. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for supporting young people! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've made a positive impact in previous roles. This will help you stand out as a compassionate candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for dedicated individuals like you to join our team and make a difference in the lives of young people.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Support Worker in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with children and young people, especially those with learning disabilities. We want to see how your skills align with the role of a Senior Support Worker!
Showcase Your Compassion:In your application, let us know about your compassionate approach to care. Share examples of how you've built trusting relationships with young people and how you’ve supported their independence and wellbeing.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any previous roles in children's residential care settings. We’re looking for candidates who have experience leading shifts or supporting less experienced staff, so make that clear!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process!
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 regulations, 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 handled challenging situations. Highlight your compassionate approach and how it aligns with the values of the service. This will demonstrate that you have the right mindset for supporting vulnerable individuals.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask the interviewers about their approach to care and the team dynamics. This shows that you're not just interested in the job but also in how you can contribute to their mission. It’s a great way to gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Teamwork
As a Senior Support Worker, you'll be leading shifts and guiding colleagues. Be prepared to discuss your experience in teamwork and leadership. Share examples of how you've supported less experienced staff or contributed to a positive team environment, as this will highlight your suitability for the role.
