Residential Youth Support Worker

Residential Youth Support Worker

St Leonards-on-Sea
£20 per hour (via Umbrella) (£16 PAYE an hour)
Initial 6-month contract | Shift Rota (incl. sleep-ins)

East Sussex County Council is seeking compassionate, resilient and motivated Residential Youth Support Workers to join our Children’s Services team in St Leonards-on-Sea. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children and young people aged 7–19 who rely on our residential and respite homes for safety, support and stability.

About the Role As a Residential Youth Support Worker, you will play a vital role in providing high-quality, therapeutically informed care to young people with complex needs, disabilities, or challenging early life experiences.
You will:

• Provide nurturing and consistent day-to-day care in line with Children’s Homes Regulations and Quality Standards.
• Build positive, trusting relationships and help young people develop independence and life skills.
• Support children through emotional, behavioural and psychological challenges.
• Lead shifts, maintain accurate records and prioritise safeguarding at all times.
• Work on a shift rota, including sleep-ins, weekends and bank holidays.
• Engage young people in meaningful, fun and developmental activities.
• Work collaboratively with families, schools, health services and social care professionals.

What We’re Looking For Essential:

• Experience working with children or young people.
• A caring, patient and resilient approach.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work independently and within a team.
• Basic IT skills.
• Willingness to work flexibly across the rota.

Qualifications:

• Level 2 English and Maths (or ability to pass assessments at interview).
• Willingness to work toward Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare.

If you’re passionate about supporting young people to grow, heal and thrive, we’d love to hear from you.