Residential Support Worker (Unqualified)

As an Unqualified Residential Support Worker at Stepping Stones Care, you will provide day-to-day emotional, behavioural and practical support to children and young people living in our residential homes. You will help create a safe, nurturing and structured environment where children can heal, grow and develop the confidence and skills they need for a brighter future.

Working alongside experienced colleagues and a multidisciplinary team, you will support children’s individual needs, encourage positive relationships, promote engagement in education and recreational activities, and help develop essential life skills. You will also contribute to care plans, maintain accurate records and use therapeutic approaches to support children through challenges.

This role offers the opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills through training, supervision and ongoing professional development, while working towards a Level 4 qualification in Children and Young People’s Workforce.

You are a caring, patient and resilient individual who is passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of children and young people. You understand the importance of consistency, trust and positive relationships, and you are willing to learn and develop your skills to provide high-quality therapeutic care.

You will share the DNA of a Stepping Stones Carer:

• Inquisitive
• Patient
• Nurturing
• Resilient
• Kind
• Playful
• Enthusiastic

You will be a reliable and supportive team player who can communicate effectively, follow guidance and use your initiative when appropriate. Above all, you will be committed to safeguarding children, maintaining a non-judgemental approach and helping every young person reach their potential.

• Commitment to undertaking a Level 4 qualification in Children and Young People’s Workforce.
• Commitment to behaviour management training and refresher courses.
• Commitment to completing an Emergency First Aid qualification.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a therapeutically focused team.
• Ability to work independently and use initiative within agreed parameters.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to write and maintain accurate reports and records.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Willingness to administer medication following appropriate training.
• Ability to listen to instructions and follow guidance.
• Good organisational skills, including the ability to prioritise and manage daily workloads.
• Good timekeeping and reliability.
• Flexibility to work an agreed shift pattern, including sleep-ins and weekends.
• Commitment to providing high-quality care and maintaining continuous professional development.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt in high-pressure situations.
• Empathy, patience and a non-judgemental approach when supporting children and young people.
• Understanding of safeguarding and the importance of following relevant policies and procedures.
• Willingness to learn about children’s support plans, the keyworker role and therapeutic approaches to care.
• Ability to support children’s daily living skills, education, personal development and recreational activities.

• Knowledge or experience of working with children who have experienced complex trauma.
• Experience working within an Ofsted-registered children’s home.
• Experience of person-centred planning and its application to supporting children and young people.
• Understanding of therapeutic models of care and how these are incorporated into report writing.
• Experience completing reports, activity risk assessments and maintaining accurate records.
• Understanding of children’s support plans and the ability to discuss their needs and progress confidently.
• Understanding of the keyworker role and its responsibilities.
• Willingness to attend additional workshops and training to support the needs of children and the home.