Job Description

Job Overview

- Support Worker (Children's Residential Home)

Location:

Colchester, Essex

Pay Rate:

14.00 per hour

Shift Pattern:

4 days on / 4 days off - 12.5-hour shifts (7:30am - 8:00pm including handover)

Additional:

Sleep-in duties required, with waking night shifts also available

About Us

At First Steps Residential, we are passionate about creating safe, nurturing, and supportive homes where children and young people can thrive. We believe in offering stability, kindness, and opportunities for growth - ensuring every child feels valued and has the best chance to succeed.

We are now looking for

dedicated, empathetic, and resilient Support Workers

to join our growing team in Colchester.

The Role

As a Support Worker, you will play a vital role in the lives of children and young people who may have experienced trauma, neglect, or significant challenges. You will be there to listen, to guide, and to help them build positive routines and futures.

This is not just a job - it's a chance to make a real and lasting difference.

Key Responsibilities

Provide high-quality, consistent care and support to children and young people in line with their individual care plans. Build trusting relationships, acting as a positive role model and mentor. Support young people with daily routines such as school, hobbies, appointments, and personal development. Encourage independence while providing safety, stability, and emotional support. Work as part of a team to ensure the home runs smoothly and remains a safe, nurturing environment. Accurately complete records, reports, and handovers in line with regulations. Respond effectively to safeguarding concerns, always putting the welfare of children first. Participate in activities, outings, and experiences that enrich the lives of the children in your care.

What We're Looking For

Essential:

Previous experience working with vulnerable children or young people (e.g., residential care, fostering, education, or youth work). A genuine passion for supporting children to overcome difficulties and achieve their goals. Resilience, empathy, and patience. Willingness to work 12.5-hour shifts on a 4-on / 4-off rota, including sleep-ins or waking nights. Strong teamwork and communication skills.

Desirable:

Currently working towards or holding

Level 4 Diploma in Residential Childcare

(or equivalent). If not yet qualified, commitment to enrolling on our

apprenticeship programme

to achieve this. Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection practices.

What We Offer

Competitive hourly rate of 14.00 p/h

Clear career progression

with opportunities to advance into senior support worker and team leader roles. Funded

apprenticeships and training

to gain Level 4 Diploma in Residential Childcare (If not already working towards for the right candidates). A

supportive and inclusive team culture

where your ideas and input are valued.

Sleep-in payments (50.00 per night)

and opportunities for waking night shifts

Regular supervision and reflective practice

to support your wellbeing and professional growth.

Free meals

during shifts. Casual dress code (comfortable and practical). On-site parking.

Why Join Us?

This role is perfect for someone who is:

Passionate about making a difference

in young people's lives.

Empathetic and caring,

but also resilient when challenges arise. Excited by the chance to grow their career in a supportive and professional environment.
At First Steps Residential, you won't just be "doing a job" - you'll be changing lives every single day.

Job Type: Permanent

Benefits:

Casual dress Company events Company pension Discounted or free food Flexitime Free parking On-site parking
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 14.00 per hour

Expected hours: 42.5 per week

Benefits:

Casual dress Company events Company pension Free parking On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:

Colchester CO2 9BB: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:

Child and Young People: 3 years (required)
Language:

English (required)
Work Location: In person