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- Tasks: Support young people in a nurturing environment, helping them heal from trauma.
- Company: Join Safe Places, a compassionate charity dedicated to children's wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, professional development, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young lives while growing your career in a values-led organisation.
- Qualifications: Experience with challenging behaviours and a Level 3 qualification required.
- Other info: Comprehensive training and clear progression pathways available.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 36000 £ per year.
Location: Loughinisland, Northern Ireland
Salary: £36,309.22 per annum
Contract: Full Time
Reporting to: Registered Manager
Help Shape Safe Futures for Children and Young People
At Safe Places, we believe every child deserves safety, stability and the opportunity to heal. As a specialist therapeutic charity, we provide nurturing residential homes for young people who have experienced significant trauma and adversity. We are expanding our services and are seeking committed and compassionate Residential Key Workers to join our small, relationship-based teams within our 2-bedded EBD children's homes in Loughinisland, Northern Ireland. This is an opportunity to be part of a values-led organisation that places relationships, consistency and therapeutic care at the centre of everything we do.
About the Role
As a Residential Key Worker, you will play a pivotal role in supporting young people whose behaviours reflect complex trauma and unmet emotional needs. Working within a stable and supportive team, you will help create a safe, nurturing and structured home environment where young people can develop trust, resilience and positive life experiences.
Our model prioritises:
- Trauma-informed and therapeutic care
- Strong, consistent relationships
- Reflective practice and professional development
- Creating homes that feel safe, predictable and supportive
You will contribute to the delivery of high-quality care in line with our Statement of Purpose, safeguarding standards and organisational values.
Working Pattern
Weekly Structure:
- 32 shift hours plus 2 sleepovers (Hours Bank System)
- 6 allocated non-contact hours for key worker responsibilities
- 2 weekly on-call duties (paid at enhanced rates)
Shift Pattern:
- 24-hour shifts (16 hours awake working time, 8-hour paid sleepover)
- Two core shifts per week
- Opportunities to work additional shifts
Why Join Safe Places?
We recognise that meaningful care starts with supported and valued staff. Our approach invests in your wellbeing, growth and long-term career development.
Professional Development
- Clear progression pathways to Key Worker 2, Deputy Manager and Registered Manager roles
- Structured internal development framework within your first 6 months
- Comprehensive 3-week paid induction including:
- Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI)
- Trauma & Attachment
- Safeguarding
- Medication Management
- Health & Safety and Fire Safety
Support & Wellbeing
- 24/7 on-call support from trained TCI Post-Crisis Response staff
- Triple-tier wellbeing support including external counselling services
- Structured rota promoting work-life balance
- Monitoring through an hours bank system
Benefits
- 33 days paid annual leave
- 10% annual leave loading
- £250 loyalty bonus every six months following successful probation
- Opportunities for enhanced earnings through additional shifts and on-call duties
- The opportunity to help shape an innovative therapeutic model of residential care
Essential Criteria
- Minimum 2 years experience working with challenging behaviours
- At least 6 months experience in a senior role (Shift Lead, Team Leader, or Senior Residential Worker)
- Level 3 qualification in a relevant discipline
- Full UK or Irish driving licence held for at least 1 year (maximum 3 penalty points)
- Ability to obtain Enhanced Access NI Registration with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council
Desirable Criteria
- Degree-level qualification in a relevant subject
- Experience supporting traumatised children and young people within therapeutic or residential settings
Application Process
Applications must be submitted via our website: England and Northern Ireland Vacancies Safe Places for Children UK. The full Job Description is available for download via the website.
Induction Training
Successful candidates will complete a mandatory three-week induction programme starting on: Monday 13 April 2026 (Induction training is paid at a casual rate).
Future Opportunities
Safe Places may retain suitable applicants on a waiting list for up to six months following interview and may contact candidates regarding future vacancies.
Key Worker in Downpatrick employer: Safe Places for Children UK
Contact Detail:
Safe Places for Children UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Key Worker in Downpatrick
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Safe Places and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend relevant events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions! Think about how you'd handle specific scenarios related to trauma-informed care and supporting young people. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Safe Places.
We think you need these skills to ace Key Worker in Downpatrick
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic: When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through! We want to see your passion for working with young people and how your experiences have shaped you. Don't be afraid to share personal stories that highlight your commitment to making a difference.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and requirements outlined in the job description. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in supporting children with challenging behaviours, and show us how you align with our therapeutic approach.
Showcase Your Skills: We’re looking for specific skills that match the role of a Residential Key Worker. Be sure to mention your experience with trauma-informed care, relationship-building, and any qualifications you hold. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can contribute to our nurturing environment!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the position and our organisation there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Safe Places for Children UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Residential Key Worker and the values of Safe Places. Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed care and how it applies to supporting young people. This will show your genuine interest and commitment during the interview.
✨Share Your Experiences
Prepare to discuss your past experiences working with challenging behaviours and how you've supported traumatised children. Use specific examples that highlight your skills in building relationships and providing consistent care, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Come prepared with questions that demonstrate your understanding of the organisation's mission and your eagerness to contribute. Inquire about their approach to professional development or how they support staff wellbeing, showing that you value both personal growth and team dynamics.
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, let your passion for helping young people shine through. Share stories that reflect your empathy and commitment to creating safe, nurturing environments. This will resonate well with the interviewers and align with the values of Safe Places.