At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable young people in their journey towards independence and education.
- Company: Join Leaving Care Solutions, dedicated to making a positive impact on young lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours with no contractual obligation and competitive pay of Β£12.79 per hour.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while gaining valuable experience in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with young people is essential; relevant qualifications or willingness to study required.
- Other info: Must have a driving license and be prepared for an enhanced DBS check.
Specific Hours: Shift pattern - ad-hoc cover
Salary: Β£12.79 per hour
Location: St Albans
LCS is seeking committed and enthusiastic Residential Childcare Support Workers to work on a casual basis, covering shifts within the business as and when needed. This opportunity offers flexibility to work the hours you can commit to, with no contractual obligation. Our vision is to make a positive and lasting difference to young people who have been in care and are moving towards independence. We provide young people with accommodation/housing and support them in their journey towards independent living and educational achievements.
As a Residential Childcare Support Worker, your role involves providing a responsive, customized, and quality service to young people placed in their individual flats or shared houses. Young people supported by Leaving Care Solutions are vulnerable, and you are responsible for ensuring that the home provides a safe, welcoming, and healthy environment for the young person living there.
DUTIES WILL INCLUDE:
- Working in line with person-centred risk assessments and support plans, liaising with support workers to provide a full handover.
- Observing any change in behaviour, ensuring appropriate actions are documented, and reporting changes in support needs of any young person.
- Maintaining positive working relationships with young people, staff, and professionals by communicating effectively at all times, and actively seeking ways to improve the young people's experience in the service.
- Ensuring continuous support is provided to young people at the standards of day staff, with particular focus on the safety of vulnerable people.
- Carrying out necessary health and safety actions, including cleaning tasks, in accordance with policies and procedures.
- Liaising with external agencies such as police and Emergency Duty Team (EDT).
- Supporting young people who need to attend hospital or police station.
ALL APPLICANTS MUST HAVE:
- Experience supporting young people who may be vulnerable.
- Flexibility in availability, as the role includes weekend work.
- Hold Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma, Children and Young People's Workforce NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care, or equivalent, or be willing to study towards this.
- A full driving license and access to a vehicle, as travel is required.
PERSON SPECIFICATION:
- You must be resilient and able to handle challenging and diverse behaviours positively.
- Have strong self-awareness and a commitment to acting as a positive role model.
- Possess a strong sense of personal accountability.
- Be motivated to achieve excellence and passionate about supporting young people to reach their full potential.
LCS is an equal opportunities employer, positively encouraging applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates. Polaris is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check for this position.
Residential Childcare Support Worker (Sessional / Casual) employer: Polaris Community
Contact Detail:
Polaris Community Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Residential Childcare Support Worker (Sessional / Casual)
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of young people in care. Understanding their challenges and how to support them effectively will show your commitment and suitability for the role.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of residential childcare. Attend local events or workshops to connect with others who work in this area, as they may provide valuable insights or even referrals.
β¨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your flexibility and availability during the interview process. Since the role requires ad-hoc cover, being open about your schedule can make you a more attractive candidate.
β¨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've supported vulnerable individuals. Sharing specific examples will highlight your experience and ability to handle challenging situations effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Childcare Support Worker (Sessional / Casual)
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Residential Childcare Support Worker. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that demonstrate your ability to support vulnerable young people.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience you have working with young people, especially those who are vulnerable. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've positively impacted their lives.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Clearly mention your qualifications, such as the Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma or NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care. If you are willing to study towards these qualifications, express this commitment in your application.
Personalise Your Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that reflects your passion for supporting young people. Discuss why you want to work with Leaving Care Solutions and how your values align with their mission to make a positive difference.
How to prepare for a job interview at Polaris Community
β¨Show Your Passion for Supporting Young People
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for working with young people, especially those who are vulnerable. Share personal experiences or motivations that drive you to make a positive impact in their lives.
β¨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
Since the role requires ad-hoc cover, highlight your flexibility in working hours and your ability to adapt to changing situations. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed unexpected challenges in previous roles.
β¨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific scenarios involving challenging behaviours. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and showcase your problem-solving skills.
β¨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication Skills
The role involves liaising with various professionals and maintaining relationships with young people. Be ready to discuss your communication style and provide examples of how you've effectively worked within a team to achieve common goals.