Support Worker in Newhaven

We are currently recruiting on behalf of a growing children's residential care provider for a compassionate, resilient, and dedicated Residential Support Worker to join a newly established children's home supporting young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This is an exciting opportunity to join a service at the beginning of its journey and play a key role in helping to create a safe, stable, and nurturing home environment where children and young people can feel supported, valued, and empowered to thrive. The home follows a small-home therapeutic model, supporting up to 2 young people, allowing for highly individualised, child-centred care and meaningful relationship building. This role is ideal for someone passionate about making a genuine difference in the lives of vulnerable children and young people, particularly those who have experienced trauma, instability, or adverse childhood experiences.

Why Apply?

• Join a newly established therapeutic children's home
• Small home environment supporting just 2 young people
• Opportunity to build meaningful, consistent relationships with young people
• Work within a trauma-informed and child-centred care model
• Be part of a supportive and growing organisation committed to positive outcomes
• Make a real impact on children's emotional wellbeing, independence, and future

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality day-to-day care and emotional support to children and young people within the home
• Build trusting, positive, and professional relationships with young people
• Support children with routines including education, appointments, activities, and independent living skills
• Encourage positive behaviours through therapeutic and trauma-informed approaches
• Promote children's emotional wellbeing, resilience, confidence, and self-esteem
• Help create a warm, safe, and nurturing home environment

Safeguarding

• Safeguard and promote the welfare of all children and young people
• Identify, respond to, and appropriately report safeguarding concerns
• Follow safeguarding procedures, risk assessments, and care plans at all times
• Support young people during periods of emotional dysregulation or challenging behaviour using de-escalation techniques

Record Keeping & Communication

• Maintain accurate daily records, incident reports, and handover notes
• Contribute to care planning and review processes
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, families, social workers, education professionals, and external agencies

Team Working

• Work effectively as part of a residential childcare team
• Participate in handovers, team meetings, supervision, and training
• Maintain professional boundaries while delivering consistent care and support

Shift Pattern

This role operates on a rota basis consisting of 3 shifts per week:

• 2 Long Day Shifts: 9:00am - 10:00pm
• 1 Sleep-In Shift: Paid at £55 per sleep
• 1 Waking Night Shift: 9:00pm - 10:00am (Waking nights receive an additional £1 per hour night enhancement)

Flexibility is essential, including weekends and bank holidays.

Essential Requirements

• Previous experience working within children's residential care, supported living, education, youth work, or a similar care setting
• Experience supporting children or young people with SEMH needs, challenging behaviours, or complex trauma
• Good understanding of safeguarding and child protection practices
• Ability to remain calm, resilient, and professional in challenging situations
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Genuine passion for improving outcomes for vulnerable young people
• Full UK Driving Licence

Desirable

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent)
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice, attachment theory, and therapeutic care
• Experience supporting young people affected by trauma, exploitation, neglect, or emotional dysregulation
• Experience supporting children with ASD, ADHD, PDA, or other neurodiverse needs

Important Information

• Drivers only - this is an essential requirement
• No sponsorship available for this position

Safeguarding

Our client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, satisfactory references, right-to-work checks, and safer recruitment procedures.

Apply Now

If you are passionate about supporting children and young people to overcome challenges and achieve positive outcomes, we would love to hear from you. Apply today to discuss this opportunity in confidence.