Experienced Residential Childcare Worker – Specialist Children's Home (Ofsted)

About the role

Simply Social Care is working with an award-winning specialist provider to recruit an Experienced Residential Childcare Worker for a therapeutic children's home in Preston.

This Ofsted-regulated service provides a safe, nurturing and therapeutic environment for young people with autism, SEMH needs and emotional and behavioural difficulties. You will be a consistent, reassuring presence—helping young people feel safe, understood and able to build brighter futures.

You will support daily routines, education, activities and essential life skills; follow individual care plans, risk assessments and therapeutic strategies; build positive professional relationships and clear boundaries; and maintain accurate records in line with safeguarding and Ofsted requirements.

This is a full-time, permanent role of up to 40 hours per week, including day shifts, weekends and paid sleep-ins. The role pays £13.50–£14.00 per hour plus paid sleep-ins, alongside a supportive team culture, ongoing development and clear progression routes.

Appointment is subject to an enhanced DBS check including the Children's Barred List, satisfactory references and safer recruitment checks.

Responsibilities

• Create a safe, nurturing and therapeutic home environment
• Support daily routines, education, activities and independent-living skills
• Follow care plans, risk assessments and therapeutic strategies
• Maintain clear, objective records and uphold safeguarding standards
• Work collaboratively with the registered manager, therapeutic leads and wider team

Essential requirements

• Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (or equivalent)
• At least 2 years' experience in an Ofsted-regulated children's residential setting
• Experience supporting young people with SEMH, autism and/or EBD
• Flexible approach to evenings, weekends and sleep-ins
• Right to work in the UK
• Enhanced DBS with Children's Barred List check, satisfactory references and safer recruitment checks

Desirable requirements

• Full UK driving licence
• Experience of trauma-informed care and therapeutic approaches

Benefits

• £13.50–£14.00 per hour plus paid sleep-ins
• Paid induction and continuous professional development
• Supported career progression
• Medicash healthcare plan
• 28 days annual leave (pro rata)
• Refer-a-colleague and loyalty bonuses
• Free on-site parking