Residential Children’s Worker
Support the daily lives of children, shift-based part-time work, competitive pay rates, Level 3 diploma required or willingness to achieve it. Enjoy council employee perks.
The Residential Children’s Worker position offers a competitive hourly wage between £16.77 and £17.79, with generous increases for evenings, nights, and bank holidays. The job is permanent and part-time, making it a good option for those seeking flexibility. On top of the salary, sleep-in duties are compensated, with further enhancements during bank holidays. Applicants must hold, or commit to earning, a Level 3 Children and Young People’s Workforce Diploma or equivalent. This role is suited for individuals ready for a varied but rewarding career in social care with robust local council benefits.
Typical Responsibilities and Key Tasks
As a Residential Children’s Worker, you work closely within a small team to provide stable, day-to-day support for children’s educational and social development.
You’ll uphold high standards of care, guided by national regulations, and ensure children’s welfare is always prioritised. Duties also include routine guidance and managing daily activities.
Supporting children can be both challenging and fulfilling, and at times you will need to work independently while also collaborating with colleagues.
Relationship-building is a central focus, so good communication, empathy, and professionalism are fundamental for this role.
Compliance with the Children’s Homes (England) regulations 2015 and a willingness to continue learning and developing your skills are also expected.
Noteworthy Benefits and Advantages
Council employment means access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, competitive annual leave, and travel expense reimbursement.
Additional perks include flexible working patterns, free car parking at most work sites, and discounts on local leisure centre memberships.
Health and well-being are supported by in-house counselling, occupational health services, and sessions with physiotherapists.
The job structure—early, late, and sleep-in shifts—brings a flexibility that many find appealing.
Competitive wages, especially for unsociable hours and bank holidays, further enhance the role’s attractiveness.
Pitfalls and Challenges to Consider
Shift work can affect your work-life balance, as it often includes evenings, nights, and weekends, which might not suit everyone.
The emotional demands of working closely with vulnerable children can be significant and sometimes challenging to manage.
There is also a requirement either to already hold or be willing to complete a Level 3 qualification—this represents both a time and learning commitment.
Staff must be comfortable with a team environment, using their initiative, and being flexible about role boundaries and daily tasks.
While the benefits are strong, council processes and procedures can sometimes be bureaucratic and slow to change.
Verdict: Is This Children’s Worker Role Right for You?
If you have a passion for supporting young people and can manage the demands of shift work, this role carries genuine rewards and council-supported benefits.
For those at ease in emotionally engaging roles, and seeking job security and ongoing career development, the Residential Children’s Worker offer is a solid choice.
It is ideal for candidates looking to combine professional growth, structured support, and meaningful day-to-day impact, while drawing a strong wage for their dedication and flexibility.
