Casual Residential Care Practitioner - Children and Young People

We are opening new Residential Children’s Homes across Solihull for children aged 7 to 17 with Emotional and Behavioural difficulties (EBD). Our senior management team brings extensive experience in Children’s Residential services, working with vulnerable children, young people and their families. We believe every child and young person deserves a safe, nurturing environment that enables them to reach their aspirations and goals. Our service embeds the PACE model for therapeutic input and is person‑centred and individual to each child's needs.

This rewarding role will give you the opportunity to make a real difference to children, young people and their families in Solihull. By providing a safe, stable, supportive and stimulating environment you will help to create a strong foundation for a brighter future. No two days will be the same – you may run a school bus, plan a day out, contribute to care plans, attend professional meetings, and spend the day offering hugs, laughter, reassurance, sharing, and learning.

We offer high quality training and coaching through our Children’s Social Care Academy to support your continuous professional development and a clear career pathway. The role also provides a great working environment, flexible working options, an extensive wellbeing offer, staff discounts and access to the Local Government pension scheme.

To meet Ofsted requirements you must possess a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or an equivalent qualification, such as NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care or the Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People’s Workforce). Casual staff are not eligible for apprenticeships. Experience (paid or voluntary) working in a health, social care or educational setting, including experience with challenging behaviours. A strong commitment to making a difference to vulnerable children and young people, working towards care plans and risk assessments. Understanding of safeguarding and the importance of protecting vulnerable children and young people. Great self‑awareness, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build strong relationships with children and young people. A passion for learning, self‑reflection, and growth within the role, striving to deliver a high‑quality service and ensuring the wellbeing of those in care.

This post also carries essential car user status – you must be able to drive, have a driving licence and have access to a car. Reasonable adjustments will be made for disabled applicants. As part of the casual team you may be required to provide cover across all three homes.

To apply, click on the link and submit your application in your own words. If you have specific questions, email ChildrensHomesRecruitment@solihull.gov.uk. Further information is available by clicking the provided links. The closing date is 1 February 2026. Applications may be reviewed, shortlisted and shortlisted for interviews at regular intervals; we reserve the right to close early if sufficient interest is received.

This post is subject to compliance checks in line with Schedule 2 requirements for working in a children’s home, a pre‑employment medical check, a DBS check and the Fluency Duty for English language requirements.

Solihull Council is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees – a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit. Solihull Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk, and requires all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.