At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people in residential care, providing emotional and practical assistance.
- Company: A leading organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of children in care.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, extensive training, career progression, and generous leave.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with children or young people and a commitment to ongoing training.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, supportive team environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £27,248 – £29,490 (up to £30,682 with progression)
- Day role: ÂŁ27,248 per annum
- Night role: ÂŁ29,490 per annum
- Hours: 40 hours per week, shift work including weekends, bank holidays and occasional sleep‑ins
- Sleep‑ins: £50 per session
- Overtime/Bank Holidays: Paid at enhanced rates
- Locations: Ealing (W13) or Balham (SW12)
Are you looking for excellent training, therapeutic support and clear career progression? Join our committed team and make a real difference to young people living in residential care, where no two days are the same.
About Us
We have a strong history of providing fostering, children’s homes and leaving‑care services across the UK and the Isle of Man. Our work is underpinned by therapeutic expertise, and we place young people at the centre of everything we do. We support children and young people who are unable to remain in their parental or foster placements, offering positive, life‑changing experiences, education support and life‑skills development. When you join us, you will receive a tailored development plan based on your goals. Whether you wish to progress into leadership, move services or develop further in your current role, we will support you throughout your journey.
The Role
As a Support Worker in a Children’s Home, you will provide direct care and support to young people aged 12‑17 with complex emotional and mental health needs, including experiences of trauma and loss. Working within a therapeutic framework, you will build safe, trusting and professional relationships, support emotional regulation, and promote positive outcomes. You will be responsible for safeguarding young people, supporting daily routines, liaising with professionals, and completing accurate support and care documentation. For Waking Night roles, on‑call management support is provided, along with monthly team meetings and one‑to‑one supervision.
About You
- At least 1 year’s experience supporting children or young people in residential, fostering, semi‑independent or youth work settings
- A willingness to achieve the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare within 2 years
- A genuine commitment to helping children and young people reach their full potential
- An understanding of safeguarding and professional boundaries
- The ability to manage challenging behaviour effectively
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends, bank holidays and sleep‑ins
- A commitment to ongoing training and development
- Creativity, enthusiasm and resilience
What We Offer
- A paid 4‑week induction and training programme
- Clear career progression and tailored development plans
- Industry‑leading training, including Level 3 qualifications
- 25 days annual leave rising to 27 days, plus bank holidays (pro‑rata)
- Contributory pension, enhanced maternity and sick pay
- Life assurance (3x salary)
- BUPA employee assistance programme
- Cycle to work scheme and Blue Light Card discounts
- Employee awards and funded training opportunities
Recruitment Process
Applications must be submitted via our online form and include a supporting statement addressing the Person Specification. CVs are not accepted. The process includes an online situational test, interview, and a home visit.
Closing date: 26 February 2026
Support Workers - Days or Nights shifts - Children\'s Homes in Ealing employer: St Christopher's Fellowship
Contact Detail:
St Christopher's Fellowship Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Workers - Days or Nights shifts - Children\'s Homes in Ealing
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on our values and the work we do. This will help you connect with us and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference in the lives of young people.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Try doing mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on how you can demonstrate your experience with children and your understanding of safeguarding. We want to see your passion and commitment shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself! During the interview, let your personality come through. We’re looking for someone who can build trusting relationships with young people, so showing your genuine self will help us see if you’re a good fit for our team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in our minds as we make our decisions. Plus, it’s just good manners!
We think you need these skills to ace Support Workers - Days or Nights shifts - Children\'s Homes in Ealing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you start your application, take a moment to check out our website and learn about our values and mission. Understanding what we stand for will help you tailor your application to show how you fit into our team.
Craft Your Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Make sure to address the Person Specification directly, highlighting your relevant experience and skills. We want to see how you can make a difference in the lives of young people.
Be Authentic: When writing your application, be yourself! Share your genuine passion for supporting children and young people. We appreciate authenticity and want to know what drives you to work in this field.
Follow the Application Process: Remember, we only accept applications through our online form, so make sure you stick to that! Double-check your application before submitting to ensure everything is in order. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at St Christopher's Fellowship
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Support Worker in a Children’s Home. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of young people aged 12-17 and the therapeutic framework mentioned in the job description. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience supporting children or young people. Think of specific examples where you've managed challenging behaviour or built trusting relationships. This will show that you have the skills and commitment needed to excel in this position.
✨Prepare for Situational Questions
Expect situational questions during the interview that assess your problem-solving abilities and emotional intelligence. Practice responding to scenarios related to safeguarding, emotional regulation, and teamwork. This will help you articulate your thought process and approach to real-life situations.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask insightful questions about the team dynamics, training opportunities, and career progression. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your career goals.