Residential Child Care Worker in Taunton, Somerset

About the Role

Join our residential children's home located in Taunton, Somerset, as part of a dedicated social enterprise. We provide personalized care and support for young people aged 7 to 17 who have faced challenging early life experiences. Your role will be to work within a compassionate team focused on creating positive, trauma-informed environments to improve the lives of these children, supported by integrated clinical and educational services.

Key Responsibilities

• Engage children in a broad range of activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, swimming, skating, arts and crafts, beach explorations, forest walks, movie nights, and backyard camping.
• Serve as a positive role model, guiding and encouraging children to make healthy and constructive decisions.
• Support household duties including cleaning, cooking, and home maintenance, while developing practical skills in nutritional meal planning, first aid, health and safety, and gardening.
• Participate in overnight stays (sleep-ins) at the home, averaging 2 to 3 per week.
• Pursue professional growth through our Level 3 apprenticeship in residential childcare, with clear paths for further advancement.

Requirements and Eligibility

• No prior experience is needed; comprehensive training and guidance will be provided.
• Applicants must be over 19 years old with a full driving license and car access due to the home's location.
• Strong written, verbal, and IT communication skills are essential, as is the ability to connect with children through play.
• Willingness to undergo safeguarding measures including DBS checks and employment reference verification.

Compensation and Benefits

The role includes a salary package that accounts for approximately 8 sleep-ins per month, with an additional £50 paid for each overnight stay beyond the average of two weekly sleep-ins. You'll also enjoy:

• 30 days annual leave (22 days plus 8 bank holidays) with an option to purchase additional leave.
• A three-week working rota provided six weeks in advance.
• A medical cashback plan through Simplyhealth.
• Continuous professional development supported by the Learning & Development Team, including funded Level 3 Diploma in Residential Child Care.
• Employee support programs offering 24/7 GP services, counselling, and advisory support.
• A long service recognition program.
• Enhanced maternity package for mothers with over a year of service.
• Additional perks such as Blue Light card, referral bonuses, and foster carer referral incentives.

Working Hours

This full-time position averages 39 hours per week. Opportunities for part-time hours are also available and encouraged to be discussed.

Equal Opportunity and Safeguarding

We are dedicated to safeguarding children and young people and practice an equal opportunities policy. All applications are welcome regardless of race, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or age.