Job Description

Senior Children's Support Worker - Rainbow Lodge, Bournemouth

Lead. Support. Empower.

Are you patient, compassionate, and experienced in supporting children with Autism and trauma? Do you have the confidence to lead a team and make a lasting difference in young people's lives?

At

Rainbow Lodge

, we're looking for a caring, motivated

Senior Children's Support Worker

to join our growing team on a

full-time basis (37.5 hours per week)

. This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a leadership role where every day you'll make a genuine impact.

About Us

Rainbow Lodge

is a unique

2-bedroom children's home

based in

Bournemouth

, providing care and support for children with

Autism, emotional, and behavioural needs

.
Our mission is to help every child feel safe, supported, and valued -- not just within their home, but in their wider community too.

Our dedicated team celebrates individuality and encourages children to explore their interests, build confidence, and create meaningful memories. We follow a

therapeutic approach

based on the

PACE model of parenting

, ensuring our children are cared for with empathy, structure, and respect.

The Role

As a

Senior Children's Support Worker

, you'll combine hands-on support with leadership and guidance for your team.

Your key responsibilities will include:

Providing day-to-day care, support, and encouragement to children. Acting as a

positive role model

and helping children develop life skills, resilience, and confidence. Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of each child. Supporting children with daily routines, activities, and appointments. Completing and maintaining high-quality records and reports.
As a

Senior

, you'll also take on additional leadership duties:

Leading and supporting your team to ensure smooth, effective shifts. Auditing paperwork and ensuring compliance with policies and standards. Completing daily, weekly, and monthly checks and audits. Conducting supervisions and mentoring new team members. Leading meetings within the home and with external professionals. Participating in the on-call rota as required.

Pay & Hours

Qualified Senior Support Workers

(Level 3 in Residential Childcare):

14.15 per hour | Approx.

27,592.50 per year

(based on full-time hours) Plus

sleep-ins at 63 per night

- up to

7,534.80 per year

Total potential earnings:

up to

35,127.30 per annum

Non-Qualified Senior Support Workers:

13.85 per hour | Approx.

27,007.50 per year

Plus

sleep-ins at 63 per night

- up to

7,534.80 per year

Total potential earnings:

up to

34,542.30 per annum

Working Pattern

Full-time: 37.5 hours per week

3-week rolling rota

, including sleep-ins Typical shift:

7:00am-7:30am (with a sleep-in)

Work

1 in 3 weekends

Example rota:

Week 1:

2 days (e.g. Wednesday & Friday)

Week 2:

2 days (e.g. Tuesday & Thursday)

Week 3:

3 days (e.g. Monday, Saturday & Sunday)

Benefits

Loyalty pay rise after 1 year of service Fully funded training and professional development Clear career progression opportunities Access to

Blue Light Discount Card

Casual dress policy Meals provided during shifts Supportive 3-week rolling rota Staff events and regular recognition Employee referral programme Use of company shift car

What We're Looking For

Minimum 2 years' experience

working with children (including at least 1 year in a residential setting)

Full UK driving licence

(held for at least 12 months)

Level 3 NVQ/Diploma in Residential Childcare

(or equivalent qualification) A calm, confident leader who is passionate about helping children reach their potential

Why Join Us?

At

Rainbow Lodge

, you'll be part of a close-knit, supportive team that truly values your experience and dedication. We invest in our staff, celebrate your successes, and provide opportunities for you to grow in your career.

Apply Now

to join a team where your compassion and leadership can make a real difference every day.

Equal Opportunities:

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 27,007.50-35,127.30 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Company car Company events Company pension Discounted or free food Free parking On-site parking Referral programme
Experience:

UK Based Children's Support Worker/Care Assistant: 2 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

NVQ Level 3 in Residential Childcare or equivalent (preferred) Full UK Driving Licence (held for 1 year as a minimum) (required)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person