Job Description

Is This You?

Do you see a difficult child -- or a child in difficulty?

At Lifestyles, we believe the difference lies in

perspective

-- and in the people who care enough to look deeper.

If you value

compassion

,

teamwork

,

integrity

,

fun

, and

hard work

, then we'd love to hear from you. We're looking for people who bring heart as well as skill -- people who want to make a real difference, who can laugh as well as listen, and who show up for young people even on the toughest days.

Because for the right person, this isn't just a job -- it's a calling.

At

Lifestyles Residential Services

, we believe that every child deserves a safe, stable, and nurturing home -- especially those who've faced trauma, disruption, or loss. Our staff don't just clock in and out; they show up with heart, purpose, and resilience.

The Role

You'll be joining our team at

our Dungiven home

, a large, well-equipped house designed for

three young people aged 12-17

. The work is therapeutic, relational, and guided by the principles of safety, structure and support.

What You'll Be Doing

Building meaningful, consistent relationships

with young people -- becoming a trusted adult they can rely on.

Supporting recovery from trauma

by creating safe routines, setting healthy boundaries, and using co-regulation to help manage emotions.

Applying your understanding

of attachment theory, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and trauma-informed models to guide your daily practice.

Contributing to care planning and decision-making

alongside your team -- your voice and insight will help shape the direction of support.

Providing calm, compassionate responses

during times of crisis, helping young people feel safe, seen, and supported.

Collaborating with professionals, families, and our in-house MDT

to ensure a joined-up, holistic approach to care.

Recording observations and interventions

clearly and accurately, in line with safeguarding expectations and regulatory standards.

What You'll Need

Essential:

A

Level 3 qualification

(or higher) in a relevant field (Health & Social Care, Youth Work etc.)

Experience in residential childcare

or working with looked-after children (minimum 1 year)

NISCC registration

(or ability to register before starting) A

full UK driving licence

Desirable:

Training in therapeutic or trauma-informed care approaches A degree in Social Work, Youth Work, or Psychology Experience working in residential Confidence in leading shifts and supporting colleagues

Terms & Benefits

Salary:

26,500-32,000 (DOE & qualifications)

Hours:

Full-time, 38 hours per week (rotational shifts incl. sleep-ins)

Location:

In person - Dungiven

Contract:

Permanent

Benefits:

Comprehensive

induction and training

Regular

reflective practice sessions

Ongoing

CPD and management development

Company pension

Private Health Care

Scheme Free

on-site parking

Join Our Waiting List

We're also compiling a

12-month waiting list

for similar vacancies in the Dungiven or wider area. If the timing isn't quite right, submit your interest anyway -- and we'll be in touch when the next opportunity arises.

Lifestyles adheres to the Access NI Code of Practice; a copy of the policy be made available to you upon request. An enhanced Access NI disclosure check will be required for this post. Having a criminal record will not necessarily debar you from working within Lifestyles. A copy of Lifestyles Ex-Offenders' Recruitment Policy can be made available upon request. A copy of Lifestyles Secure Handling of Storage and Retention of Disclosure Information Policy is also available upon request.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 26,500.00-32,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Company pension Free parking On-site parking Referral programme
Application question(s):

Do you gave a valid UK Driving Licence
Education:

Certificate of Higher Education (required)
Experience:

Residential: 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 12/11/2025