Job Description

Senior Support Worker - Therapeutic Children's Residential Home

Location:

Merstham, Surrey

Contract:

Full-time, Permanent

Salary:

32,500 - 36,300 per year (including 60 per night sleep-in payments)

Lead with Purpose. Build Futures. Shape Change.

Are you an experienced childcare professional ready to take the next step in your leadership journey?
We are looking for a passionate and skilled Senior Support Worker to join our therapeutic children's residential home in Merstham. In this key role, you'll provide strong, compassionate leadership, guide and support young people through pivotal moments in their lives, and help create a stable, nurturing environment where they can grow and thrive.

This is more than just a job - it's a meaningful career opportunity where your leadership truly matters.

Why Join Us

Balanced Shift Pattern:

Structured long-day and sleep-in rota (10:00am-11:00pm, sleep-in, 7:00am-10:30am), typically 2-3 shifts per week, with meaningful rest between shifts.

Competitive Salary:

32,500-36,300 per year (including sleep-ins), plus clear pathways for progression into senior management.

Therapeutic Environment:

Our home is set on the edge of the Surrey Hills, surrounded by gardens and therapy animals to support emotional wellbeing and development.

Values-Led Culture:

Be part of a trauma-informed team that places children at the heart of everything we do and values your leadership.

Your Role as Senior Support Worker

As a Team Leader, you will set the standard for high-quality, child-centred care. You'll lead shifts effectively, provide guidance to your team, and ensure young people feel safe, supported, and understood.

Key responsibilities include:

Leading and managing shifts to provide structure, safety and consistency. Delivering tailored, individualised care to meet each young person's needs. Supporting care planning, behaviour management and risk assessments. Coordinating therapeutic and recreational activities. Mentoring, developing and motivating team members. Maintaining accurate records in line with Ofsted requirements. Taking part in reflective practice and specialist training to support your own growth.

What We're Looking For

Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) - essential. Proven experience in residential childcare, ideally with shift-leading or leadership responsibilities. Strong safeguarding knowledge and a trauma-informed approach. Confident, calm leadership with excellent communication skills. Emotional resilience and the ability to manage challenging situations. Full UK driving licence - essential. Flexibility to work long-day/sleep-in shifts (2-3 shifts per week).

What You'll Gain

32,500-36,300 per year (including sleep-ins). A rota designed to support a healthy work-life balance. Comprehensive induction, ongoing therapeutic training and reflective practice. Clear progression pathways into senior management roles. A supportive and collaborative team culture where your leadership makes a difference. Pension scheme and additional staff benefits. The chance to make a meaningful and lasting impact on young people's lives.

Step Into Leadership - Apply Today

If you're ready to lead with purpose, inspire your team and help young people build brighter futures, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today with your CV and a short cover letter explaining why this opportunity inspires you.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 32,500.00-36,300.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Company pension On-site parking Referral programme
Experience:

Residential Childcare: 2 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

UK Driving Licence (required) NVQ Level 3 in Residential Childcare (preferred)
Work Location: In person