Support Worker

£12.75 per hour initially | £15–£18 per hour once permanent | Temp-to-Perm Are you passionate about supporting vulnerable young people and helping them build positive futures? We are currently recruiting Residential Support Workers to join a dedicated team supporting young people aged 6–17 across three residential homes in Basildon. This is an excellent opportunity to join a supportive, family-run organisation that genuinely invests in its staff, provides extensive training and offers clear opportunities to progress into senior and management positions. About the Homes The organisation currently has three residential homes in Basildon, all located just a few streets away from one another You will always work as part of a 2:1 staffing ratio, ensuring the young people receive consistent, individualised support. The organisation also has experience supporting emergency placements and currently has two younger children within the service. About the Young People The young people you will support are aged predominantly 7–17 and may have experienced significant trauma or difficult life experiences. Due to their experiences, some young people may display challenging or complex behaviours. The focus is not simply on supervising the young people — it's about building genuine relationships and helping them feel safe, understood and supported. What You'll Be Doing As a Residential Support Worker, you will play an important role in the day-to-day lives of the young people. Your responsibilities will include: Building positive and trusting relationships with young people Reading and understanding individual care plans Supporting young people to develop independence and important life skills Encouraging positive choices and behaviours Providing consistent boundaries and routines Responding calmly and appropriately to challenging behaviour Supporting young people who may be vulnerable or at risk Following safeguarding procedures and company policies Shift Pattern The homes operate on a 24-hour basis, with the following shifts: Day: 8am–8pm Night: 8pm–8am You will be required to work 3 shifts per week, equating to 36 hours per week, with the opportunity to pick up additional shifts if available. You must be flexible and willing to work both days and nights. Training & Career Development This is a company that genuinely invests in its staff. Once you have successfully completed your 6-month probationary period, the company will support you in completing a Level 3 Residential Childcare qualification. Once you have achieved your Level 3 qualification, there is the opportunity to progress into a Senior Support Worker role, with further potential to progress into management. You will also be required to complete the company's 2-day, face-to-face restraint training course. About the Company The organisation is family-run by a husband-and-wife team, who are very hands-on and approachable. They place a strong emphasis on supporting and developing their staff and offer: Fully funded training opportunities Level 3 qualification support Clear progression opportunities Employee of the Month recognition and prizes Opportunities to pick up additional shifts Supportive management Potential progression into Senior and Management positions This is an organisation where staff can genuinely build a career rather than simply take a job. Requirements To be considered for the role, you will need: To be 22 years old or over A full UK driving licence Ideally, at least 6 months' experience working with children, young people, residential care, schools, youth work or a similar environment Ideally, a Level 3 Health & Social Care qualification covering children or children and adults Flexibility to work both day and night shifts If you're compassionate, resilient and passionate about helping young people overcome difficult experiences and build positive