Job Description:

Residential Support Practitioner – Children’s Services

Location: Exeter, Devon (EX1)
Salary: £13.50–£14.00 per hour, depending on experience
Sleep-in: £50 per sleep-in
Overtime & Bank Holidays: Enhanced rates available
Contract: Permanent, Full-time

Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of children and young people?

We are looking for a Residential Support Practitioner to join a growing children’s residential care organisation supporting young people aged 7–17 who may have experienced trauma, loss and instability.

This is a rewarding opportunity to join a team that focuses on helping young people build trust, confidence and independence within a safe, nurturing and supportive home environment.

About the Role

As a Residential Support Practitioner, you will play an important role in creating a home where young people feel safe, valued and supported.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Building positive and trusting relationships with young people
• Providing emotional and practical support
• Supporting young people with daily routines and developing independence
• Encouraging education, learning and positive community involvement
• Supporting emotional development and wellbeing
• Promoting positive behaviour and maintaining clear boundaries
• Following safeguarding procedures and promoting the welfare of young people
• Working closely with colleagues and other professionals
• Providing a stable, consistent and positive role model
• Supporting young people in line with trauma-informed and PACE-based approaches

You will need to be flexible with your working pattern to meet the needs of the home. This will include evenings, weekends, sleep-ins and 24-hour shifts.

About You

We are looking for someone who is compassionate, resilient and genuinely wants to make a difference.

Essential:

• Experience working with children and young people
• Full UK driving licence
• Willingness to work a varied rota, including 24-hour shifts, evenings, weekends and sleep-ins
• A positive and supportive approach
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team

Desirable:

• Experience working within children’s residential care
• Experience supporting children and young people with SEND or learning disabilities
• Understanding of trauma-informed approaches

Previous residential childcare experience is desirable, but the right attitude and commitment to supporting young people are equally important.

What’s on Offer?

We believe in looking after the people who look after others. In return for your commitment, you’ll receive:

• £13.50–£14.00 per hour, depending on experience
• £50 per sleep-in
• Enhanced pay for overtime and bank holidays
• Frontline leadership support
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Your birthday off every year
• Fully funded qualifications, including Level 3 Residential Childcare Diploma