Job Description

About Us

Woodford Children's Services is dedicated to providing outstanding, therapeutically informed care for children and young people with emotional and behavioural needs. Our homes are safe, nurturing environments where children are supported to thrive and achieve their potential through "The Woodford Way" - our values-driven approach.

The Role

As a Senior Support Worker, you will:

Lead and plan shifts to ensure the safety, wellbeing, and engagement of children. Support and mentor Support Workers, modelling therapeutic practice. Provide emotional support, crisis intervention, and daily living assistance. Promote positive relationships, boundaries, and routines within the home. Ensure safeguarding and quality standards are consistently upheld. Work closely with the clinical team to implement therapeutic plans.
This is a hands-on role where you'll "roll up your sleeves," lead by example, and make a lasting difference in children's lives.

What We Offer

500 Golden Handshake

on successful completion of probation. Competitive salary and pension scheme. Employee Assistance Scheme Comprehensive induction, ongoing training, and professional development. Opportunity to complete further qualifications (e.g., Level 4 Therapeutic Childcare).

Employee Ownership Bonus scheme

(after 12 months of service, paid June & December).

Mintago Financial Wellbeing Platform

- access to financial tools, guidance, and pension support.

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

- confidential wellbeing, mental health, and counselling support available 24/7. Staff wellbeing support and reflective practice groups. Clear career progression opportunities within Woodford.

About You

To join us, you'll need:

At least 2 years' experience in residential childcare. Level 3 Diploma in Children and Young People's Workforce/Children's Residential. A genuine motivation to work therapeutically with children. Strong communication skills and ability to build positive relationships. Flexibility to work varied shifts, including sleep-ins. IT Literate with good knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Shift Pattern: Our shift hours are from 7:40 am to 8:00 pm, following a two-week pattern:
- Week 1 (long week): Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (4 days)

- Week 2 (short week): Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday (3 days)

Enjoy every other weekend off while still averaging 42 hours per week. This pattern not only ensures a healthy work-life balance but also reduces travel time and costs. Plus, there's an opportunity to pick up overtime during your short week if desired.

Desirable:

Full UK driving licence. Experience in therapeutic childcare settings.

Safeguarding Commitment

Woodford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This role requires an enhanced DBS check and subscription to the Update Service.

Apply Now

If you're ready to make a difference and build a rewarding career with a supportive team, we'd love to hear from you.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 14.40-15.00 per hour

Benefits:

Casual dress Company events Company pension Employee mentoring programme Financial planning services Health & wellbeing programme Profit sharing Sick pay Transport links
Application question(s):

Do you hold a Level 3 Diploma in Children's Residential / Children and Young People's Workforce?
Experience:

Residential Children's Home: 2 years (required)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person