Most leadership roles in residential care ask you to do everything: manage staff, support young people, handle paperwork, and somehow stay sane on a rota that never quite fits. This one is different. We're looking for a Team Leader who can step into a genuine leadership position with the training, support and clear progression to actually grow into it - and the rota (2 on, 4 off) that gives you a life outside work too
You'll be leading shifts at a home supporting young people aged 8 to 17 with emotional and behavioural difficulties and challenging behaviour. This isn't paperwork theatre - you'll be the one creating the safe, structured environment where these young people actually begin to settle, to trust, to change. You'll mentor staff through difficult moments, guide them through supervisions, and model the kind of professionalism and integrity that makes troubled teenagers believe adults can be different
The home operates on values that actually mean something: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Development, and Equality. Every day you'll be working alongside a team committed to those same principles. You'll conduct care planning and assessments, organise activities that engage and challenge young people, liaise with external professionals, and keep the records that tell the story of real progress. This is hands-on leadership - you step in as Key Worker when needed, not just bark orders from an office
What sets this provider apart is they invest in their leaders. You get paid training and genuine development opportunities built into your contract. There's a clear career progression pathway laid out - they're not hiring and hoping you'll stay; they're building people who can move up. Holiday increases by one paid day per year up to three years, long service awards, employee recognition, and perks like Medicash healthcare and gym membership. This is what loyalty looks like when it runs both ways
What you will be doing
- Lead shifts and set the tone for high standards of care across the home
- Support, mentor and supervise care staff, helping them develop their practice and confidence
- Conduct care planning, assessments and reviews with young people and families
- Act as Key Worker to young people when needed, and organise activities and outings that keep them engaged
- Liaise with external professionals, schools, and agencies to coordinate support around each young person
- Maintain accurate records and documentation, ensuring compliance with policies and procedures
Why you will love working here
- £15 per hour plus £60 per sleep-in, on a 2 on, 4 off rota that actually protects your wellbeing and time with family
- Paid training and ongoing development opportunities - your manager wants you to get better at this job, not just survive it
- Clear career progression pathways so you can see where leadership can take you
- Holiday increases of 1 additional paid day per year up to 3 years, plus long service awards and employee recognition
- Healthcare and gym membership perks via Medicash, and access to an Employee Assistance Programme when you need support
Is this you?
- You hold NVQ Level 3 or 4 in Children and Young People's Workforce (or equivalent), earned through real residential childcare experience
- You've got at least 2 years' solid experience working with young people in a children's residential setting - you know what you're walking into
- You're resilient, calm under pressure, and can lead by example when a shift gets challenging
- You have a valid driving licence (essential for this role)
- You're genuinely committed to working with young people who've had a rough time, and you believe they can change
Applications close on 12 October 2026. Great roles like this are filled quickly, so the sooner you apply the better.
Safeguarding: We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.