Being a Residential Worker requires a special kind of person. Day to day your main focus will be on working with children and families directly to ensure the delivery of good quality care. You will work 37 hours over a mixture of early (6.45am - 2.30pm) and late shifts (1.45pm - 9.30pm).
Previous experience of working in a children's home, would be beneficial however there are many skills that you might have that would make you suitable for the role. It is important to be open minded and have a flexible and adaptable attitude and be able to manage challenges with a calm and patient demeanour. You will have an ability/willingness to understand and manage challenging behaviour including aggression and violence using a range of de-escalation techniques. You will also need to have effective written and verbal communication.
If you don't already have a Level 3 Diploma you will need to complete this within 2 years of starting employment. We will provide you with all the training you need for the role along with good quality, regular supervision. This, together with the right attitude and access to a full in-house induction, will enable you to start your career with Essex County Council with confidence.
If shortlisted, you will have an initial interview to explore the detail you provide in your application and give you an opportunity to discuss the role and ask any questions. This can be virtual or in person. If you are successful at this initial interview, you will be invited to a 2nd interview at the home, where you will meet some of the team, answer a written question and some further set interview questions.
Due to nature of this role any applicants need to be at least 21 years old in order to undertake this post.
It is an exciting time to join Essex County Council as we invest in and expand our overnight short breaks residential provision. The Maples is a purpose built home providing overnight short breaks for up to 8 young people with disabilities, enabling them to spend time with other young people and try new experiences whilst supporting their parents to continue in their caring role., As part of employment with Essex County Council (ECC) should your role require a DBS check you will be required to register with the DBS update service. The DBS update service ensures all registered DBS certificates are kept up to date and allows authorised parties to view the status of your certificate. This is an annual subscription, and you will be responsible for ensuring this is maintained. For further information on the DBS update service please go to