At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide care and support to vulnerable children in a dynamic residential setting.
- Company: Join Shropshire Council, dedicated to making a difference in children's lives.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, professional development, and generous pension contributions.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and a strong team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working in a supportive and rewarding environment.
- Qualifications: Must be 21+, have a driving licence, and experience with vulnerable children.
The predicted salary is between 30800 - 35100 £ per year.
We are embarking on a significant transformation programme to strengthen our residential care offer to vulnerable children and young people. The role of a Residential Care Worker is exciting and fulfilling. You will be responsible for the day‑to‑day care of the young people, ensuring their needs are met in line with a structured care plan. The position offers the chance to work across our children’s homes, providing child‑centred care 7 days a week, including some early mornings, days, evenings and weekends. You will also be required to be available for sleep‑in hours as part of the shift coverage.
Responsibilities
- Provide practical, emotional and therapeutic support to children and young people with complex needs.
- Implement and monitor individual care plans and progress records.
- Work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team comprising social workers, outreach workers and early intervention teams.
- Respond to incidents, emergencies and behavioural challenges in a calm, professional manner.
- Participate in regular team meetings, training sessions and supervision.
Qualifications & Experience
- Minimum age 21.
- Full driving licence.
- Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure & Barring Service.
- Previous experience working with vulnerable children or in residential care is required; a comprehensive training package will be provided.
- Passion for improving the lives of children and the ability to demonstrate understanding, compassion and empathy.
- Flexibility, resilience and a dynamic attitude.
Pay & Benefits
- Pay Scale: Grade 7+2, SCP 12‑20, £14.82 – £16.90 per hour plus additional unsociable hours and sleep‑in payments (dependant on experience and qualifications).
- We offer a rewarding career with exceptional employment benefits:
- Comprehensive induction training programme
- Access to continuous professional development opportunities
- Local government pension scheme with generous employer pension contribution
- Flexibility in working hours based on casual working
- Local and national rewards and benefits scheme
- Opportunities for career progression as part of a multi‑disciplinary team
- Access to a benefits platform with retail discounts and salary sacrifice schemes (cars, bikes, AVCs)
- Employer contribution to Shropshire County Pension Fund
- Supportive parental leave policies (maternity, paternity, adoption, special leave)
- Hybrid model for flexible and agile working to support personal and family commitments
We support equal opportunity of employment and actively encourage applications from under‑represented groups, including people with disabilities and minority ethnic groups.
About Shropshire Council: Shropshire Council is a unitary authority serving the rural County of Shropshire. Working here means helping others and experiencing a real sense of achievement and purpose. Our residential homes have a strong, supportive and rewarding work environment, with many staff members citing pride, respect and professional development as key drivers of satisfaction.
Residential Child Care Worker employer: Shropshire Council
Shropshire Council is an exceptional employer, offering a fulfilling career as a Residential Child Care Worker in a supportive and rewarding environment. With a strong focus on professional development, flexible working hours, and a comprehensive benefits package, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable children and young people. The council's commitment to inclusivity and community service fosters a culture of respect and pride among staff, making it an ideal place for those passionate about child-centred care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Residential Child Care Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Shropshire Council and its values. Understanding their mission to support vulnerable children will help you connect your passion for care with their goals during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Residential Child Care Workers on LinkedIn or at local events. They can provide insider tips and might even refer you directly, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions! Think about how you would handle specific scenarios involving children with complex needs. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident and articulate 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 genuinely interested in joining our team and making a difference in the lives of young people.
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Child Care Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for working with vulnerable children shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in making a difference in their lives, so share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Residential Child Care Worker role. Highlight your experience with complex needs and how you can implement care plans effectively, as this will show us you're the right fit.
Be Professional Yet Personal:While we appreciate professionalism, don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your writing. Share anecdotes or examples that demonstrate your empathy and resilience, as these qualities are crucial for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, you’ll ensure your application reaches us quickly and you can easily keep track of your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shropshire Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Residential Child Care Worker inside out. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description, especially around providing emotional and therapeutic support. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Show Your Passion
This role is all about improving the lives of vulnerable children, so let your passion shine through! Be ready to share personal experiences or stories that demonstrate your understanding, compassion, and empathy. Employers love to see candidates who are genuinely committed to making a difference.
✨Prepare for Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations, such as responding to behavioural challenges or emergencies. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully navigated similar scenarios. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how success is measured in the role. This not only shows your interest but also helps you determine if the organisation is the right fit for you.
