Most residential care jobs leave you exhausted and unsupported. This one doesn't. We're looking for an experienced Team Leader who wants to step up, lead a small team, and actually see young people transform - with proper backing, proper training, and a rota that lets you live your life too
Picture this: you're building something real with a group of young people who've had a rough deal. You're not just keeping them safe - you're helping them find confidence, learn independence, and believe in themselves again. Every shift, you see the small wins that matter. A young person who was withdrawn last month laughing at breakfast. Another one taking on a new responsibility they'd never have tried before. That's the impact you'll have here
You won't be doing this alone. Your team has your back, and the organisation has yours. There's a genuine culture of support here - not just the Employee Assistance Programme or the on-demand GP access (though those matter), but actual people who show up for each other. The shift pattern is 1 on, 2 off, which means you get proper time to recover and recharge. And when you're ready to grow, there's a clear path: fully funded Level 5 Leadership & Management training, then Deputy Manager, then Registered Manager roles
This provider runs more than 60 children's homes and specialist services across the UK. They're trauma-informed, attachment-focused, and genuinely values-led - one of only two DDP Certified Organisations in the country. You'd be joining an organisation that's trusted by over 60 local authorities because they actually deliver for young people. That matters, and it shows in how they invest in their staff
What you will be doing
- Create and maintain a warm, safe, nurturing environment where young people feel genuinely supported and can grow
- Build the positive, trusting relationships that help young people develop resilience and believe in their own potential
- Support and shape individual care plans, daily routines, and the practical life skills work that gives young people independence
- Keep accurate records and logs that reflect the real progress and needs of each young person in your care
- Lead by example as a calm, collaborative team player who can flex across different shifts and support colleagues
Why you will love working here
- £31,907 per annum plus paid overtime at time and a quarter once you've worked your 40 hours
- Fully funded Level 5 Leadership & Management qualification - your ticket to Deputy and Registered Manager roles
- A 1 on, 2 off rota with clear, team-based planning so you actually get time off to live
- 28 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays), plus wellbeing days when you need them, birthday recognition, and on-site parking
- Real support: 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Programme, on-demand GP access, NEST pension with employer contribution, and a team culture where people genuinely look after each other
Is this you?
- You've worked with children and young people in a care, education, or support setting - and you know what good looks like
- You hold or are working towards Level 3 in Children & Young People's Residential Care (or equivalent experience that shows you understand trauma-informed, person-centred practice)
- You're genuinely person-centred: you see young people as individuals, not problems, and you have the resilience to stay positive when things are hard
- You have a full UK driving licence (preferred - it opens up activities and outings with the young people)
- You're a team player who thrives in a collaborative culture and can work flexibly, including sleep-ins, weekends, and the rotating shift pattern
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.