Location: Nottinghamshire County Council Department: Youth, Families & Social Work Job Title: Practitioner Job Type: Full-time, Shift Work (including evenings, weekends, bank holidays, and occasional sleep-in/awake-night duties) Salary : £29,095 - £32,654 plus £2,460 market factor supplement About Us: We are a Secure Children's Home providing a safe, supportive, and positive environment for some of the most vulnerable young people in England and Wales. We are committed to delivering high-quality care and ensuring the well-being and development of every child and young person we support. Job Purpose: We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Practitioner to join our team. In this role, you will provide day-to-day social and educational care for young people, ensuring their safety and emotional well-being in line with the Children's Home Regulations 2015 and the service plan. You will also take on key working responsibilities for complex cases, coordinating care plans, writing reports, and liaising with external bodies under the guidance of a Senior Practitioner. Key Responsibilities: Provide high-standard physical and emotional care for young people. Lead shifts and support staff in delivering effective care services. Promote an inclusive environment that respects race, culture, gender, disability, and sexual orientation. Ensure compliance with Children's Home Regulations 2015 and safeguard the well-being of all young people. Manage challenging behaviour using MAPA training strategies. Advocate for young people, ensuring they have access to representation and complaints procedures. Communicate professionally with children, families, and external agencies. Contribute to care planning and implement strategies that support positive outcomes. Maintain a safe and homely environment for young people. Uphold the Council's commitment to excellent customer service and act as a role model for junior staff. Person Specification: Education and Knowledge: Diploma/NVQ Level 3 in CCYP/Health & Social Care or equivalent (or willingness to achieve this within 6 months of confirmation in post). GCSE Grade C or above in English (or equivalent literacy skills to Level 2). Understanding of the Children Act 1989 and related legislation. Knowledge of safeguarding practices within residential care. Awareness of young people's physical, emotional, and cultural needs. Ability to manage and respond effectively to challenging behaviour. Skills and Competencies: Excellent customer care and communication skills. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Commitment to personal development and training. Resilience and the ability to manage stress. Strong time-keeping and attendance record. Patience, flexibility, and enthusiasm - acting as a positive role model for young people. Experience: Minimum of 1 years' experience working with children and young people in a residential setting. Additional Requirements: Flexibility to work on a rota basis, including weekends, bank holidays, and unsociable hours. Willingness to undertake sleep-in and awake-night duties as needed. Why Join Us? Be part of a supportive team making a real difference in young people's lives. Ongoing training and development opportunities. A dynamic working environment where every day brings new challenges and rewards. How to Apply: If you are passionate about supporting young people and have the skills and experience we are looking for, we want to hear from you CFDS1