Residential Childcare Support Worker

Residential Support Worker

Company: Apple Orchard

Location: Horsham, West Sussex

Contract: Full Time, permanent

Specific Hours: 40 hours per week - shift pattern

Starting Salary:

Base salary of £29,046.53 with the potential to earn up to £30,866.53 with sleep‑in shifts

Salary after probation: Base salary of £30,252.35 with the potential to earn up to £32,072.35 with sleep‑in shifts

What We Offer:

Competitive salary and sleep-in allowances (£35 per night, typically one per week)

Every other weekend off

Fully funded qualifications and professional development

Clear promotion pathways and career progression

Company pension

Access to employee discount and wellbeing programmes

About Apple Orchard:

Apple Orchard runs five residential homes across Surrey and West Sussex, offering calm, therapeutic environments for boys aged 12-18 who have experienced trauma or disruption. Our focus is on helping young people heal, grow and reach their full potential.

You'll join a supportive, dedicated team that values compassion, resilience and teamwork. Whether you're experienced or new to residential childcare, if you're passionate about making a positive difference, we'd love to hear from you.

What You'll Do:

As a Support Worker, you'll play a key role in the daily life and development of the young people in our care. You will:

Provide a safe, nurturing and supportive home environment

Plan and lead activities that build confidence, skills and positive routines

Form stable, trusting relationships that help young people move toward independence

Keep clear, accurate records of behaviour, progress and achievements

Work with local authorities and external professionals to maintain excellent care standards

Be an active, supportive member of a dedicated, energetic team

What We're Looking For:

Essential:
* A genuine passion for making a positive difference in young people's lives
* Experience working with teenagers or challenging behaviours (preferred)
* Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends and sleep‑ins
* Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (needed due to rural locations)

Desirable:
* Level 3 Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner/Health & Social Care qualification - or willingness to work towards it
* Ability to manage behaviour with calmness, empathy and consistency
* Strong written and verbal communication skills
* A team‑focused attitude, good sense of humour and emotional resilience
* Confidence following procedures, writing reports and contributing to care plans

Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates. The company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to a DBS check at enhanced level if successful for the position.

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