Job Description

Location:

Reading

Salary:

13.50 - 15.50 per hour, plus on-call and sleep-in payments

Contract Type:

Full-Time, Permanent

Shifts:

07:30 - 21:30, including sleep-ins as required

Make a Real Difference. Lead with Purpose. Support with Heart.

Are you a qualified and experienced residential childcare professional ready to step into a senior role? At Cornerstone Children's Homes, we create safe, nurturing, and stable environments where young people can grow, heal, and begin to thrive. We're looking for a

Senior Residential Care Worker

to join our team in Reading--someone who combines compassion with confidence and is ready to lead by example.

About the Role

This is a hands-on role that blends direct support for children and young people with leadership responsibilities that help shape team culture and practice. Whether you're guiding a shift, mentoring a colleague, or supporting a young person through a key moment, every day is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

Key Responsibilities

Supporting Young People

Deliver consistent, child-centred care tailored to individual needs Encourage routines, healthy relationships, and independent living skills Support young people through day-to-day life, transitions, and care plans Build trusting relationships that foster resilience, self-worth, and growth

Team Leadership

Lead shifts confidently and model trauma-informed practice Mentor junior staff through supervision, coaching, and training Assist with staff recruitment, onboarding, and development Promote a reflective, emotionally attuned team culture

Collaboration and Compliance

Liaise effectively with families, external professionals, and partner agencies Participate in care reviews, safeguarding meetings, and planning sessions Maintain clear and accurate records in line with care standards Support operational areas such as rotas, reporting, and health & safety
What We're Looking For

You're a resilient and grounded professional with a commitment to quality care and team growth. You lead with empathy, communicate clearly, and thrive in a supportive but high-responsibility environment.

You'll bring:

NVQ Level 3 in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) - essential*
Experience working in residential childcare, including leading shifts or teams Strong understanding of safeguarding and trauma-informed care Confident leadership and effective mentoring skills A calm, consistent approach and emotional resilience under pressure Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle with business insurance
What We Offer

13.50 - 15.50 per hour, plus on-call and sleep-in payments Permanent, full-time role within a stable and experienced team Full induction and access to ongoing training and professional development A reflective, values-led culture that supports both staff and young people Clear opportunities for career progression into senior leadership roles A meaningful role with long-term impact in young people's lives
Apply Today

If you're ready to take the next step in your career, lead with care, and help create a home where young people can feel safe and supported, we'd love to hear from you.

Please apply with your CV and a short cover letter explaining why this opportunity is right for you.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 38,000.00-40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

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

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

NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (preferred) Driving Licence (preferred) DBS Certificate registered to the update service (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: SNR Shinfield