Care Worker

£24,987 (unqualified) / £27,615 (qualified) plus £500 ‘golden hello’ bonus on successful completion of probation

About Us:

Kedleston Group Ltd is an independent group dedicated to providing exceptional care and education for children with special educational needs. We are committed to creating nurturing and supportive school and home environments where children and young people can thrive and reach their full potential.

Role Overview:

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated Residential Children's Care Workers to join our team at High Peak House, near Disley. This home is currently expanding from 4 children to 6 children. We provide care and support to children and young people aged 8 to 18 years old with special needs, including learning difficulties, autism spectrum condition (ASC), ADHD, and a history of self-harm.

Shift Pattern:

40 hours per week on a 2-week rolling rota:

• Week 1: 4 days on, 3 days off
• Week 2: 3 days on, 4 days off

Shifts are between 8:00 am and 10:30 pm Monday to Sunday.

You will be required to attend regular training/staff meetings which may fall at times outside of standard shift patterns.

You will be asked to undertake additional sleep-in shifts which are paid at £60 per shift.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide high quality care and support tailored to the individual needs of each child, promoting their physical, emotional, and social development.
• Implement and follow individual care plans to support children with autism spectrum condition, learning difficulties, ADHD, and other special needs.
• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children, particularly those with a history of self-harm, through vigilant supervision and proactive intervention.
• Engage children in structured activities and routines that enhance their development and promote positive behaviour.
• Maintain clear and effective communication with children, colleagues, and external stakeholders, including carers/parents and healthcare professionals.
• Keep accurate records of each child's progress and any incidents, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
• Have access to reliable transport to commute to and from work and to transport children to and from appointments as needed.
• Work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to provide consistent and comprehensive care for each child.

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• Previous experience working with children or young people with special needs, particularly those with learning difficulties, autism spectrum condition, ADHD, and a history of self-harm.
• Understanding of child protection and safeguarding procedures.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations.
• Access to reliable transport for commuting and transporting children.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent.
• Knowledge of therapeutic approaches and behaviour management strategies.

While applications from experienced and qualified candidates are preferred, we welcome applications from those willing to work towards a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare, which we will sponsor and support. We also pay a £1,000 bonus to those who successfully complete the Diploma within 12 months.

Personal Attributes:

• Empathy and compassion for working with children with complex needs.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think on your feet.
• High level of patience and resilience.
• Flexibility to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Why Join Kedleston Group Ltd?

• Meaningful Work: Make a significant impact on the lives of children and young people with special needs.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous professional growth and training, including support to achieve a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare.
• Career Progression: Opportunities to progress to more senior roles within the organisation.
• Supportive Environment: Work within a dedicated and passionate team committed to the highest standards of care.
• Wellbeing Support: Access to a perks and discounts platform, employee assistance service and health and wellbeing events, podcasts and webinars.

Kedleston Group Ltd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. All positions are subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Kedleston Group Ltd is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.