Job Description
Our client is a specialist provider of care to Children and Young People in residential settings. At this home, they offer a supportive and stable environment where young people can develop life skills, achieve their potential, and grow into the best versions of themselves. Residents may face social, emotional, and behavioural challenges due to past experiences, and the team are committed to helping them overcome these obstacles.
Rota And Hours Of work
The Rota is designed to provide the best possible support to the young people. Shift patterns are organised as a 1 on 1 off model and includes night shifts, however, there needs to be flexibility around the needs of the home when required. The Rota also has requirements that need to be met by those involved.
Attendance:
- This is a vital component as service delivery depends on this. If there are areas of concern regarding non-attendance it could ultimately lead to the instigation of capability or conduct procedures. Attending training and team reflection meetings is also vital to deliver high standards within the home.
Flexibility:
- For a Rota to be effective participants must be able to meet the obligation regarding night shifts, weekend working and working bank holidays. Shift patterns may change to meet the needs of the home.
On-Call:
- Residential Care Practitioners are not expected to commit to the on-call system in place to support the home.
Key Responsibilities
Support and Care:
- Provide individualised support, helping children and young people achieve the best possible outcomes.
- Maintain a nurturing, judgment-free environment.
- Work on a rota to ensure consistent support and required staffing levels.
- Providing a child centred approach with consistency within the staff team.
- Ensure children and young people are offered advocacy if they would like it.
- Work within the principles of non-oppressive practice and adhere to the Equality & Diversity policy, with an awareness of direct and in-direct discrimination in relation to age, gender, ability, sexual orientation, race, culture, and religious beliefs.
Professional Conduct:
- Adhere to health & safety, non-oppressive, and anti-discriminatory practices.
- Follow childcare legislation, Sifaa policies, and the home’s Statement of Purpose.
- Safeguard children and young people, maintaining confidentiality and data protection.
Team Collaboration:
- Work effectively as part of a team, participating in training and team reflection meetings.
- Be flexible to meet the needs of the home, including night shifts and weekends.
Development of Professional Persona:
- Dress appropriately and maintain punctuality.
- Serve as a positive role model, demonstrating good values and professional communication.
- Manage time effectively and conduct oneself professionally inside and outside of work.
- Report any evidence of malpractice or safeguarding issues (whistleblowing).
Role Requirements
Domestic Duties:
- Maintain a clean environment and undertake health and safety duties.
- Perform general household tasks like cooking, cleaning, and laundry.
Relationship Building:
- Form and maintain professional relationships with children, young people, colleagues, and stakeholders.
- Advocate for the needs and views of the children and young people.
- Liaison with relatives, significant others, and other agencies with due regard to confidentiality and data-protection.
Behaviour Management:
- Use positive behaviour support strategies and maintain appropriate boundaries.
- Physically intervene if necessary to ensure safety and report incidents comprehensively.
Health and Education Support:
- Understand and implement health plans, support medical appointments, and promote healthy lifestyles.
- Support educational goals, including understanding education plans and promoting academic and social progress.
Administration and Finance:
- Complete daily reports, health and safety checks, and manage petty cash and allowances.
- Support young people with budgeting and financial management.
Key Working:
- Undertake keyworker responsibilities, advocating for and representing identified young people.
- Maintain and update files, ensure relevant work is planned and completed, and consult young people on their care.
Activities and Observation:
- Organise, supervise, and participate in risk-assessed activities.
- Assist in compiling reports and assessments based on observations.
- To partake in the safe transportation of young people adhering to the young person’s risk assessments and company policies.
Placement/ Care Plans:
- To know and understand the young people’s placement/care plans and contributing to their evaluation where necessary. Be actively involved in meetings and communications with external stakeholders and support development to the best of your ability.
Risk Assessments:
- Understand and contribute to the evaluation and updating of risk assessments.
- Recognise and address contextual safeguarding.
Personal Development
Qualifications and Training:
- Complete basic training and orientation.
- Complete necessary NVQ qualifications within the set timescale.
- Actively participate in staff development and mandatory training programs.
Supervision and Knowledge:
- Engage in supervision and appraisal processes.
- Develop knowledge of Children’s Homes Regulations 2015, Quality Care Standards, safeguarding practices and legislation.
Note: This job description is not exhaustive. You may be required to undertake additional duties based on your experience and the needs of the home. Occasionally, you may also support the Registered/Deputy Manager in leading shifts or work at alternative homes within the organisation.