Support worker

Location: County Durham and surrounding areas

Hours: Full-time/Part-time/Shift-Based

Are you passionate about providing exceptional care and support to children and young people with a range of needs?

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Support Worker to join our team in County Durham and surrounding areas. You will play a key role in supporting children and young people to lead fulfilling and independent lives. As part of a close-knit team, you’ll be assisting individuals with physical disabilities, mental health challenges, and behavioural needs, ensuring they receive the best possible care and assistance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver high-quality, person-centred care to children and young people across hospital settings, family homes, and residential homes
• Promote and implement positive behaviour and support strategies that are tailored to each individual’s needs
• Build trusting, therapeutic relationships to encourage positive choices and reduce challenging behaviours
• Support emotional regulation and help young people develop effective coping mechanisms
• Maintain a consistent, calm and proactive approach to behaviour management
• Assist with personal care, daily living activities, and medication where required
• Set clear, consistent boundaries and provide structured whilst maintaining a supportive environments
• Use de-escalation techniques and recognised behaviour management approaches when necessary
• Accurately record incidents, progress, and observations in line with safeguarding and care protocols
• Encourage independence, participation in daily routines, and engagement with education or community activities
• Participate in appropriate activities that is beneficial to the child’s daily wellbeing and development

What We’re Looking For:

• NVQ Level 3 in Children and Young People’s Workforce (or equivalent) is essential
• At least 6 months of paid experience in a similar role in the UK is required
• Experience in managing challenging behaviours is highly desirable
• A compassionate and patient nature with a genuine passion to make a difference to vulnerable and complex children
• Strong communication skills and the ability to communicate at all levels
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with the focus on the child’s/ children’s needs
• A proactive, positive attitude with excellent problem-solving abilities
• Strong written and verbal communication
• Basic IT skills as you will be required to complete various documents relating to the children’s, child’s care plan
• Full UK Driver’s License is preferred but not essential
• Enhanced DBS check (we can assist with this if needed)

Why Join Us?

• A supportive and friendly work environment
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Flexible working hours including days, nights and weekends
• Competitive pay and benefits package
• Opportunity to complete level 4 children, young people and family practitioner – residential childcare Level 4 free of charge.
• Weekly pay
• Holiday accrual

The average shift is usually 12 hours

If you're ready to make a difference in the lives of children and young people, we’d love to hear from you!

INDGA