Job Description

Residential Child Care Worker - Waiting List Recruitment (Dromore)

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

, 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.

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

About Lifestyles Residential Services

We believe every child deserves a safe, stable, and nurturing home -- especially those who have experienced trauma, loss or disruption. Our team doesn't just clock in and out; they show up with purpose and resilience.

The Role

You'll be joining our team in

Dromore - Co. Down

, within a large, well-equipped home designed for two young people aged

6-12

. The work is therapeutic, relational and grounded in

safety, structure, and support

.

What You'll Be Doing

Building meaningful, consistent relationships with young people -- becoming a safe and trusted adult in their world. Supporting recovery from trauma through safe routines, healthy boundaries, and co-regulation. Applying knowledge of

attachment, ACEs and trauma-informed practice

in day-to-day interactions. Contributing your insight and observations to care planning and team decision-making. Providing calm, compassionate support during times of crisis, ensuring young people feel safe and understood. Working collaboratively with families, professionals, and our in-house MDT to deliver holistic support. Completing high-quality, accurate recording in line with safeguarding expectations and regulatory standards.

What You'll NeedEssential

Level 3 qualification in Health & Social Care, Youth Work or a related field Minimum

1 year

experience working with looked-after children or in residential childcare NISCC registration (or ability to register prior to starting) Full UK driving licence

Desirable

Training in therapeutic or trauma-informed approaches Degree in Social Work, Youth Work, Psychology or related field Residential childcare experience Ability to lead shifts confidently and support colleagues

Terms & Benefits

Salary:

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

Hours:

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

Location:

Dromore

Contract:

Permanent

Benefits

Comprehensive induction and ongoing training Regular reflective practice sessions Professional development & CPD opportunities Company pension Private Health Care Scheme Free on-site parking

Join Our 12-Month Waiting List

If the timing isn't quite right -- or if there are no current vacancies -- you can still express your interest.

We are building a

12-month waiting list

for future roles in

Dromore and the surrounding area

.
Submit your application now, and we'll contact you as positions become available.

Lifestyles adheres to the

Access NI Code of Practice

. An

Enhanced Access NI

disclosure is required for this post. Having a criminal record will not automatically bar you from employment. Our

Ex-Offenders' Recruitment Policy

and

Secure Handling of Disclosure Information Policy

are 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