Residential Care Worker – Children’s Services

About the role

Join the founding team of a brand‑new not‑for‑profit Children’s Residential Home in Three Legged Cross, Dorset. As a Residential Care Worker you will support children with learning disabilities, helping them feel safe, valued and empowered in a nurturing environment.

Key responsibilities

• Build trusting, positive relationships with children and young people.
• Support daily routines including school runs, meals, play and bedtime.
• Assist children in developing life skills and increasing independence.
• Contribute to care plans, risk assessments and routine documentation (training provided).
• Manage challenging behaviour calmly using a therapeutic approach.
• Participate in a sleep‑in rota (average four sleep‑ins per month) and flexible shift patterns.

Required profile

• Genuine interest in supporting children with learning disabilities.
• Patient, resilient and emotionally intelligent.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends and occasional overnight shifts.
• Physically and mentally fit for the role.
• Positive attitude and ability to work as part of a team.

Required skills

• Basic understanding of safeguarding principles.
• Ability to follow training on care plans and risk assessments.

What we offer

• Hourly rate from £14.50, rising to £15.50 for overnight shifts.
• Fully funded Level 3 Residential Childcare qualification.
• Full‑time, part‑time and bank contract options.
• Company pension scheme and refer‑a‑friend bonus up to £1,000.
• Paid Enhanced DBS, Blue Light Discount and On‑Demand Pay.
• Career development pathways, training and staff recognition schemes.