Role Purpose
As a senior support worker, you will be responsible for supporting the registered manager and deputy manager with the day-to-day operations of the children’s home. You will ensure that high-quality support and care are delivered to children and young people with intellectual disabilities and autism in accordance with Ofsted regulations.
Reporting to the Registered Manager and Deputy Manager, you will lead a staff team that provides high-quality holistic care which positively benefits the lives of children and young people while also maintaining a warm, welcoming, family-centred home environment that meets all regulatory standards and enables our children and young people to feel safe, supported, and loved.
This role necessitates flexibility to accommodate various shift patterns and address staffing shortfalls. Additionally, it involves direct engagement with children and young people, ensuring that all care and support is consistent with Spectrum Children’s and Young Peoples Service's ethos of promoting positive outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Case Management:
* Support the Manager and Deputy Manager by organising and leading the day-to-day shifts in the home appropriate to the statement of purpose, children’s guide, placement plans and workforce plan under the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Children’s Homes Quality Standards.
Staff Supervision and Development:
* Supervising and mentoring team members under the guidance of the Register Manager and Deputy Manager
* Manage staff rotas, ensuring appropriate coverage and continuity of care, including on-call responsibilities as required.
Administrative Duties:
* Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including case notes, reports, and other documentation in line with organisational and regulatory requirements.
* Send weekly reports to social workers, updating them on each child’s progress.
* Producing weekly planners for children and young people, ensuring structure and engagement in their daily lives.
Safeguarding and Risk Management:
* Respond promptly to incidents and safeguarding concerns, following organisations conducted.
* Review and complete risk assessments for children and young people when necessary.
Direct Work and Support:
* Engage directly with children and young people to build trusting relationships, offering practical and emotional support tailored to their needs.
* Facilitate group activities, workshops, and individual sessions that promote personal development.
* Support children and young people accessing education, employment, and training opportunities and liaise with external agencies as needed.
Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement:
* Promote a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging the team, children and young people to provide feedback and contribute to home development and care provided.
* Attend and professionally engage within all scheduled team meetings.
Collaboration and Partnership Working:
* Develop and maintain positive working relationships with external partners, including local authorities, health and education providers, and advocacy services.
* Represent the children and young people in multi-agency meetings and contribute to the planning and review of care.
Compliance and Reporting:
* Ensure compliance with all Ofsted regulations and relevant legislation, including data protection and health and safety standards.
Person Specification
Essential:
* Level 3 Qualification Children & young people’s workforce diploma and social care pathway – or equivalent
* Knowledge of Ofsted regulations and the Children’s Homes (England) Regulation 2015
* Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, including case management and administrative duties.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with children, young people, staff, and external partners.
* Experience in safeguarding, risk management, and supporting children and young people with complex needs.
Desirable:
* Experience in working with children and young people with additional needs.
* Additional training or qualifications in relation to social care or a related field.
* Experience in managing budgets and financial processes.
Key Competencies
* Team Management
* Empathy and Active Listening
* Organisation and Time Management
* Problem-solving and Decision-Making
* Adaptability and Resilience
* Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Spectrum Children and Young People Services is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and reference checks.
This role offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people. If you are passionate about supporting children and young people to grow, develop, and thrive as they transition to adulthood, we look forward to receiving your application