Senior Support Worker

Location: Erith, ‎London
Job Types: Full time, Permanent
Salary: £31,300 – £34,000 per year (£15.05 – £16.35 per hour)
Hours: 40 hours per week
Additional Payments: Sleep-in shifts paid at £65 per shift. Overtime paid at the equivalent hourly rate.
We are recruiting on behalf of our client for an experienced and compassionate Senior Support Worker to join a specialist children's residential service supporting young people with learning disabilities and complex needs.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a small, nurturing home that provides high-quality, person-centred care to children and young people aged 8–18. The service is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where young people can develop independence, build confidence, and achieve positive outcomes.
The home is registered for up to four children and currently supports young people with significant learning disabilities who require consistent, structured, and specialist support from a dedicated staff team
About the Role
As a Senior Support Worker, you will play a key role in supporting the day-to-day running of the home while providing high-quality care and guidance to children and young people.
Working closely with the Deputy Manager and Registered Manager, you will support care planning, safeguarding, staff guidance, and the delivery of therapeutic, person-centred support. You will also act as a role model for colleagues, helping to maintain high standards of care, compliance, and professional practice throughout the home.
In the absence of senior management, you will take responsibility for leading shifts, supporting staff, and ensuring the home continues to operate safely and effectively.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide high-quality, person-centred support to children and young people with learning disabilities and complex needs
* Build positive, trusting relationships with young people, families, and professionals
* Support the implementation and review of care plans, support plans, risk assessments, and educational objectives
* Conduct regular keyworker sessions and advocate for the views, wishes, and aspirations of young people
* Promote independence, emotional wellbeing, life skills development, and community participation
* Support young people to attend appointments, educational activities, family contact, and social opportunities
* Maintain accurate, professional, and compassionate records in line with regulatory requirements
* Lead shifts in the absence of the Deputy Manager, providing guidance and support to colleagues
* Support safeguarding processes and ensure the safety and wellbeing of young people at all times
* Assist with behaviour support strategies and de-escalation techniques when required
* Promote positive outcomes through reflective practice, teamwork, and continuous improvement
* Ensure compliance with Children's Homes Regulations, Quality Standards, and organisational policies
* Participate in sleep-in duties and contribute to the smooth running of the home
About You
* Previous experience working within a children's residential care setting
* Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent), or willingness to complete within the required timeframe
* Experience supporting children and young people with learning disabilities, complex needs, or additional support requirements
* Strong understanding of safeguarding, child protection, and children's residential care regulations
* Experience leading shifts or supporting less experienced staff members
* Excellent communication, organisational, and record-keeping skills
* Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations
* Positive, caring, and resilient approach to supporting young people
* Commitment to continuous professional development and reflective practice
* Full UK driving licence desirable
Benefits
* Competitive base salary
* Clear career progression and development opportunities.
* Refer-a-friend program offering generous rewards.
* Extensive training and support, including financial assistance to obtain the Level 5 Diploma and other pertinent training and qualifications.
At Olive Recruit, we are committed to fostering a workplace culture that embraces diversity and promotes inclusivity. Our core values, Integrity, Impact, Inclusivity, and Innovation, guide our efforts to create an environment where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered to excel.
As a recruitment agency, we prioritise sourcing and placing diverse candidates with our clients, recognising that diverse perspectives are essential for business success and inclusive work environments.
We take great pride in celebrating the unique backgrounds and experiences of our team members and candidates. By embracing these different perspectives, we not only create a great place to work but also better serve our clients. Your individuality is what makes our team strong.
Join us in championing our values and building a workplace where everyone can thrive.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All colleagues are expected to share this commitment and participate fully in safeguarding training and processes.
The successful applicant will undergo a free enhanced disclosure from the disclosure barring service & other compliance checks required
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed