Children and young people support worker jobs

Youth Worker – Team Lead (Inters Club)

Oasis@Knights (Streatham/Brixton Hill, South London)

Hours: 5 hours per week (0.14FTE) (Monday 17:30-20:30 and 2 additional hours of admin)

Contract: Permanent

Salary: £4,215 per annum (£29,508 for 1 FTE)

Want to join a Youth Centre offering a diverse range of activities for the local community?

Want to enable young people to thrive?

Want to be lead a dynamic, passionate and impactful team?

Knights Youth Centre (KYC) was established in 1936 as an independent Christian Charity. The centre provides a range of universal and targeted youth work programmes in partnership with a number of statutory and voluntary organisations and is located on the boundary of the Clapham Park Estate (the largest estate in the Borough of Lambeth). In 2025 KYC is joining the Oasis family of charities and will be known as Oasis@Knights. Oasis’ vision is for community, a place where everyone is included, making a contribution and reaching their God-given potential.

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Team Lead to run our Inters Group Session (ages11-14) at Oasis@Knights. This is an opportunity to run engaging and informative activities for 20-40 young people aged 11-14 in the Lambeth area, inspiring them to reach their potential and to make a real difference to their community. The successful candidate will be responsible for running these sessions weekly, managing session staff, delivering engaging activities, attending occasional day trips, as well as responding to and reporting any safeguarding concerns. 

Key responsibilities will include: 

1. To lead the delivery of youth sessions at Knights Youth Centre (KYC) and facilitate youth provision in line with the ethos, values and vision of Oasis. 

1. To work and engage with young people (aged 11-14), by delivering planned sessions, activities and occasional trips for 20-40 individuals.   

1. Deliver informal education opportunities and small group mentoring within the identified sessions and the wider community. 
2. To manage and coordinate KYC staff members whilst leading sessions.

1. Record all activity on our data management system. 

1. Promote and safeguard the welfare of children and young people you come into contact with. 

1. Actively engage in the learning and professional development courses provided as part of this employment.

The successful post holder must have:

· Proven experience in leading youth work provision for young people aged 11-14.

· Experience of managing staff in a youth provision setting.

· An understanding of the challenges impacting young people in Lambeth – in particular education, employment, mental health and criminal exploitation.

· Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive working relationships.

· Knowledge of safeguarding practices and experience working with young people in challenging environments.

· A commitment to the Oasis ethos and values, including inclusion, equality, and perseverance.

As part of the package, Oasis offers:

· A pension scheme, offering 7% employer contribution.

· A generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year (plus 8 Bank Holidays).

· Policies which promote well-being and are family friendly.

To apply, please send your CV and a Supporting Statement (no more than two A4 pages) 

Please expand on your CV to tell us about relevant skills, experience and qualification you have, that relate to the job description and person specification.

We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and underrepresented groups. If you require assistance or adjustments to overcome potential barriers during the recruitment process, please let us know.

Completed CV and Cover Letter should be returned by 9 am Friday 6th March 2026.

Interviews will take place online: Wednesday 11th March 2026.

Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from the Oasis ethos.  We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks. 

The successful candidates must have the right to work in the UK.  Oasis cannot assist with sponsorship or visas.

Oasis supports Equal Opportunities.  Registered Charity No. 1163889

Residential Support Worker 

Do you have the ambition to make a meaningful impact on the lives of autistic children and young people?

At St. John's, we've been making a positive difference in the lives of children and young people for nearly 140 years. We are now looking for incredible Residential Support Workers to help us continue making that difference!

As a Residential Support Worker, you will work under the supervision and guidance of the Care Management Team, Senior Residential Support Workers, and Therapy Teams. You will support learners in all residential houses and the community, assisting with social and academic activities.

Our aim is to ensure all learners have equal opportunities to develop their independence and social skills, preparing them for adult life.

What will you be doing?

• Supporting learners with self-care and independence skills such as eating, drinking, washing, bathing, using the toilet, managing incontinence, dressing, mobility, and medication administration.
   
• Ensuring learners' care files are kept up to date and accurate.
   
• At the start of each shift, reviewing communication and log books, and liaising with staff at handover to ensure learners' needs are well documented and addressed.
   
• Establish supportive relationships with learners and encourage the development of stable relationships.
   
• Promote the emotional health and self-esteem of learners and support them through changes in their living situation and personal circumstances.

• Accompanying learners into the community to take part in social and recreational activities such as bowling, cinema trips, and dining out, helping them build confidence and enjoy meaningful experiences beyond the college setting. 
   

We are recruiting for our Ashington Gardens, College View, and Pier View homes. Residential Support Workers will primarily be based at one location but may be required to work flexibly across all homes as operational needs require. 

In return, we offer a fantastic working environment, generous holidays, career development opportunities, and more!

Please note that sponsorship for this role is not available at this time.

Young Carers Service Manager role

An opportunity is available to help make life better for carers 

Hours - 30 hours per week (including occasional evenings/weekends)

Salary: £36,000 FTE per annum (£28,800 actual)

This is an opportunity to lead a passionate, skilled team and shape services that genuinely change lives by supporting the Young Carers in our region.

Are you self-motivated, organised, empathetic, able to work collaboratively and autonomously, passionate about supporting young people, able to influence strategic development and able to think on your feet then you might want to consider joining a small team of like-minded people.

Our charity, Carers Support, works across Bristol and South Gloucestershire to support unpaid family carers who are supporting their loved ones at home.

We currently have a vacancy in our Young Carers Service Team to support the Chief Executive and Senior Management Team and lead the Young Carers Service. This is a senior role that requires managerial experience, an understanding of the youth sector, safeguarding, and the ability to work with different employed teams and volunteers.    

Main duties will include:

To:

· Be a member of the Senior Management team and actively participate in the overall strategic management and development of the organisation.

· Ensure that the strategic development of the young carer service is co-ordinated and services are delivered in line with funded contract and grant requirements, CSC's development plan and local and national strategies and priorities.

· Be responsible for the support, supervision, management and development of the Operational manager, Schools Development Officer and Engagement worker

· Be the Children and Young People’s Safeguarding lead, working in conjunction with the Adults Safeguarding lead and deputies.

· Ensure young carers voice leads service development internally and externally improving the identification and support for young carers across Bristol and South Gloucestershire.

· Ensure sustainability developing service plans and working with Fundraising manager to raise the funds to sustain services that meet young carers needs.

There’s lots more we could tell you, but why not apply and come and see for yourself.

Closing date for applications is 22nd March 2026 @ 12 noon with interviews on 8th April 2026.

Please visit our website for all the information you need  and details of how to apply.  All completed applications should be returned to our recruitment team.

If you would like to know more about this role, please email Joss Tagg, Young Carers Manager for further information.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer, and our workplace is free of barriers and fully accessible for people with disabilities. We are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults; from recruitment of staff through to supporting our team working with families and carers in crisis.

Registered Charity No: 1063226

As Youth Worker you will use your experience of working with children and young people to:

• Work alongside the Youth Coordinator to develop and deliver an agreed project plan that meets the requirements of funders and local team priorities, in line with Diabetes UK processes and policies.
• Support young people and volunteers to understand and grow their strengths and skills, empowering them to take action, support others and make change happen.
• Continuously improve our impact and engagement with young people and the diabetes community, identifying opportunities to share learning and good practice across teams.
• Work with colleagues to grow and enhance our engagement with young people, creating opportunities for long term relationships and involvement of young people in the wider work of the charity.

Would you like to make a lasting difference in the lives of children affected by domestic abuse? Join an award-winning trauma recovery service provider that is passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of children and families.

Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) is a lifeline for children healing from the trauma of domestic abuse. From April next year, we’re expanding our service and looking for new Support Workers to join our team – helping guide children and families on their healing journey.

Position: Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) Support Worker

Location: Homebased with frequent travel. Role covers casework activity across Oxfordshire area including Cherwell, West Oxfordshire and the wider Oxfordshire area.

Contract: Permanent part time – 18.5 hours per week, weekdays.

We’re open to discussing working patterns that match both your needs and our service delivery. We’re also open to discussing an opportunity for 24 hours.

Salary range: £12,868 - £15,727 pro-rata per annum (full time equivalent range £25,735 - £31,453 per annum) 

About the role:

As a Support Worker you will play a significant role in supporting children and families affected by domestic abuse, some of your key responsibilities will include:

· the completion of assessments to understand the needs of families

· delivering group work for children and parents

· provide 1-2-1 sessions to children and families most in need

· supporting our families through providing outreach support

About you:

A successful Support Worker will need a good understanding of domestic abuse and the impact on children and families (or an interest in working in this field), with experience of delivering groupwork programmes for vulnerable parents and/or children.

If this sounds like you please apply today to join a collaborative and dedicated team who are part of something truly meaningful.           

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those with personal lived experience of domestic abuse or from underrepresented communities, who meet the essential role requirements.

For more information about our BB4K service please visit our website where you will also find contact details and information about how to apply.

Closing date: 9am, Fri 27 February 2026      

Early applications are encouraged as we may review and appoint on an earlier basis if a successful candidate is secured.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Family Support Worker, Family Key Worker, Children’s Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Key Worker, Recovery Worker, Assistant Support Worker, IDVA Independent Domestic Violence Advocate, ISVA Independent Sexual Violence Advocate, etc. 

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do at PACT. We have robust measures and best practices in place to safeguard and protect the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we take pride in maintaining outstanding safeguarding standards.

Anyone joining our team is subject to PACT’s safer recruitment pre-appointment enquiries, including a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS). The role description provides information on what our safer recruitment enquiries include and the level of DBS required to work in the role.

All opportunities with PACT are based in the UK.

Overview

CGL Buckinghamshire Children and Family Worker

Change Grow Live are a charity dedicated to the belief that we can make a difference to our Service Users lives, offering support and respect in a safe environment, treating each person as an individual and working with them to find the right treatment and care options.

Our core values are ‘Be open, be compassionate and be bold’ and our team members apply these daily to achieve our mission of helping people change the direction of their lives, grow as individuals, and live life to its full potential. 

An exciting opportunity has arisen within our Buckinghamshire Service for you to join a dynamic team committed to supporting children and young people who have been affected by someone else’s drug and/or alcohol use. The role of a Children and family Worker will support children and young people under the age of 18 on a one-to-one basis in a confidential space. The role will deliver a wide range of interventions/ education though activities, such as games, arts and crafts and emotional wellbeing resources. The role will utilise a young person-centred approach, empowering them to explore situations which they feel they have little control over to support them to lead a safe, happy, and healthy life.

The role will work in partnership and liaise with other young people services throughout Buckinghamshire, to provide holistic support to young people accessing the service. We need to record information about what we do, so enjoying a bit of admin work and attention to detail is important, but most of the time you’ll be enjoying working with young people from all backgrounds, making a difference to their lives. You will be required to work flexibly across operational sites as required so must hold a full UK driving license and have access to a car. Don’t worry, there is a wide array of training and development opportunities to help support you in your work.

Where: This role will be based across Buckinghamshire County

When: We're looking for the right person to join our team ASAP on a permanent contract

Hours: Full Time, 37.5 per week

Full Time Salary: £27,861.26 - £32,002.35 per annum, pro rata

Full-time hours at Change Grow Live are 37.5 hours per week. For part-time roles, the salary and payments will be pro rata based on contracted hours.

Responsibilities

About the role: 

• To holistically support CYP affected by parental substance misuse, using a range of interventions including group work, 1:1 work, whole family interventions, safety planning and safeguarding working closely and proactively with the family unit to support positive and sustainable outcomes.
• Identify families in conjunction with other agencies, who will benefit from a Think Family / Whole family approach, negotiating participation and engagement with the programme of care.
• Identifying and responding effectively to potential safeguarding issues. 
• Reducing drug and alcohol related harm to young people and the wider community. 
• Working with young people to support positive, holistic outcomes in relation to their health and wellbeing, enabling them to lead safe, healthy, and purposeful lives: reducing risk and increasing resilience 
• Working flexibly across sites where required

About you: 

• Experience of working with young people and knowledge of the issues they face 
• Knowledge of safeguarding concerns in relation to children and young people and the Fraser Competence framework 
• Have an excellent understanding of drug and alcohol issues and experience of working within a related field 
• Knowledge of working with evidence-based practice around young people’s substance misuse treatment services and methods, including relevant best practice guidance 
• An accomplished communicator, both verbal and written with a high degree of personal IT competency 
• Be able to accurately update and maintain records and to work to deadlines for the submission of information, e.g., reports 
• Have excellent team working and interpersonal skills, maintaining a highly cooperative approach to supporting colleagues in delivering service objectives 

What we will give to you: 

• 25 days holiday (+ bank holidays) rising by 1 day for each years’ service “Capped at 30 days” 
• Paid ‘Wellness’ hour each week along with a ‘Wellness’ hub and Employee Assist Programme 
• Contributory pension scheme 
• A great selection of benefits incl. discounts for shopping, cinema, holidays, etc. 
• A friendly and supportive team 
• Training, career development & progression opportunities 
• Refer a friend scheme.

Please ensure that when completing your application form and supporting statement, you reflect on the details outlined in the job description. This will help us understand how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the role. 

Direct applications only — we will not be engaging agencies for this vacancy.

Please note: This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. For applicants with time-limited visas, unfortunately, we are unable to support new visa applications or extensions. 

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. 

Salary Range (pro rata if part time)

CGL points 23 to 28 (£27,861.26 - £32,002.35)

ILW / OLW /Fringe

N/A - Outside London Weighting Area

Interview Date

2/3/2026

Closing Date

20/2/2026

This post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check at an enhanced level.

Following a successful application to the Henry Smith Foundation we are seeking a passionate, committed and flexible Support Worker (35 hours per week) to join our team to support young people and families, primarily focusing on LGBTQ+ young people but working with the wider team to ensure all young people and families are supported.

The main aims of the post are to ensure:

• The charity delivers quality information, advice, guidance and advocacy services which improve outcomes for LGBTQ+ young people in Calderdale & Kirklees.
• LGBTQ+ young people who face additional access barriers are reached and given the opportunity to engage with the service, reducing their isolation and loneliness.
• LGBTQ+ young people have emotionally healthy relationships with their family, friends and intimate partners.

The above would be achieved through group work, youth groups, parent and family groups, 121 work, attending professional meetings such as Team Around The Family and Child In Need meetings, mediating between families and schools, networking, stand events such as Pride’s and Freshers events, offsite activities and family support sessions.

This is a service user and public facing role. The successful candidate will be expected to attend sessions, meetings and events across in Calderdale & Kirklees

The right candidate will have:

• JNC Level 3 Youth and Community Work qualification or a willingness to undertake training. We welcome applicants with equivalent qualifications and experience in relevant sectors inclusive of child care, teaching, social work, nursing etc (or due to complete 2026 - 2027).

• A minimum 12-months experience of working with children, young people aged 25 and under and/or families
• An ability to assess needs and involve young people in identifying appropriate self-action plans
• Knowledge and understanding of the impact of Homophobia, Biphobia and transphobia on LGBTQ+ young people
• A flexible approach to work and willingness to work some evenings and weekends
• A full clean driving license and access to a car

What you'd get from us:

• Training and development opportunities
• A generous annual leave entitlement, 31 day per year plus bank holidays
• 6% pension contribution
• Life Assurance at three-times salary rate
• An employee health plan, helping with the costs of dental, optical treatments etc
• Access to staff counselling
• Perkbox Employee Benefits - 1000+ deals and discounts
• Travel expenses
• Flexible and hybrid working
• Earn between £26,510.82 – 27,836.36
• Pay award pending

Why you'd work for us:

• So you can use your skills and passion to influence change and improve outcomes for some of the most stigmatised and marginalised people in Calderdale & Kirklees
• Gain experience, build your transferable skills and learn new ones
• Be part of an amazing, committed team challenging stigma, bias, and inequalities

We have an exciting opportunity for Children & Young People Domestic Abuse Practitioners (CYPDAP) to join the New Era team in Staffordshire, working 37.5 hours a week on a Permanent Contract.

Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change & improvement for those who need it?

Do you have resilience & adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care?

If yes, then we'd love to hear from you…

What we offer

At Victim Support, we are committed to attracting and retaining the best talent. Our competitive rewards and benefits package includes:

• Flexible Working Options: Including hybrid working.
• Generous Annual Leave: 28 days plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 33 days plus Bank Holidays, with options to buy or sell annual leave.
• Birthday Leave: An extra day off for your birthday.
• Pension Plan: 5% employer contribution.
• Enhanced Allowances: Enhanced sick pay, maternity, and paternity payments.
• Exclusive Discounts: High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment, and leisure discounts.
• Financial Wellbeing: Access to our financial wellbeing hub and salary-deducted finance.
• Wellbeing Support: Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support.
• Inclusive Networks: Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes.
• Sustainable Travel: Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loans.
• Career Development: Ongoing training and support with opportunities for career progression.

About the role:

This role is based in Staffordshire (we have an office in Stafford or Stoke). The caseworker will work directly with children and young people across the area; with hybrid working an option after the 6 month probationary period.

As a Children & Young People Domestic Abuse Practitioner you will be:

• Working directly and indirectly with children and young people
• Delivering services mostly through education establishments
• Working within a wider DA service for the whole family approach

You will need:

• Good communication skills
• An ability to engage, build rapport and motivate young people
• A good understanding of domestic abuse and its impact on young people

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.

About Us:

Victim Support is an independent charity dedicated to supporting people affected by crime and traumatic incidents in England and Wales. We put them at the heart of our organisation and our support and campaigns are informed and shaped by them and their experiences.

Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

At Victim Support, we're proud to celebrate diversity and create a workplace where everyone feels they belong. We're committed to being an antiracist organisation, and we actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those from Black and Asian and other minoritised communities.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we will offer an interview to disabled candidates who meet all essential criteria for a job where it is practicable to do so. We are also happy to make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment and selection process.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date. If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

Would you like to be Gods heart, hands and feet to the children of inner city Leeds?

Do you love Jesus and want to play your part in impacting the lives of 1000 children connected to Kidz Klub? If you love logistics and decision making, and would love to pray, coordinate, serve, project manage and encourage a dedicated team then get in touch. The Children of Leeds need you.

We have an exciting Vacancy here at Kidz Klub!

We are looking for an enthusiastic, committed, compassionate individual who is passionate about reaching children at scale through our large Central Klub and Schools Work. The role involves Coordinating a large team of committed Volunteers and Line Managing Staff members and organising our large Central Klub, as well as assemblies in Schools. In all these areas you will be cheering your team and the children on, injecting a lot of fun along the way. 

Our vision is to work together with congregations and partners to see lasting transformation, through the love of God, for the most marginalised, unreached children, their families and communities of Leeds. 

37.5 hours per week (we would consider term time only-please state on your application). 

Salary £28,000-£29,000 gross dependent upon experience and qualifications. A Pension is offered in line with the Trusts policy. 

Annual Leave 6 weeks/year plus Bank Holidays to be taken in school holidays.  

Other benefits: Employee health support plan. Flexible working options. Termly prayer day, training day and retreat day. Ongoing personal development and training.  Employee discounts scheme. Join a Kings Award recognised organisation and a team who love and care for each other well.

Due to the nature of our work, this position is subject to a successful Disclosure and Barring Service check and references. 

Deadline for applications: 9am 11th March

Interview: Stage 1 Monday March 23rd 3-8:30pm at Central Klub. Stage 2 sit down interview Tues 24th  or  Weds 25th March 26 daytime.

Position to commence:ASAP following above

We have an exciting opportunity for someone to join a small, committed and experienced team supporting children, young people and families before and after the death of a parent or sibling. SeeSaw is a local award-winning charity, established in 1999 and providing grief support for Oxfordshire families since 2000. 

We are looking for candidates who have experience of working with children and young people, and their families. You may have gained experience in a range of settings, but the most important quality is the ability to communicate effectively and to make and sustain supportive relationships with families. 

Our practitioners have a caseload of individual children and their families, and liaise with professionals from schools, health, social care and children and young people’s mental health services, as well as with our team of Volunteer Support Workers. You will be able to work collaboratively and on your own initiative, ideally have a qualification in health care, social work, counselling, psychological services or education; knowledge of therapeutic interventions in grief work would be helpful but not essential as training will be given. 

Men, younger people, and individuals from minoritised communities are underrepresented in our workforce and we are particularly keen to encourage applications from these groups. 

Interviews will be held on 24th March 2026. 

Job Title: West London Family Support Worker 

Salary: £25,353.06

Team: Family Support Team

Hours: 30

Location: Based at Shooting Star House (Hampton), This role will be working across sites and in the community

About Shooting Star Children’s Hospices

We have an exciting opportunity to join our Family Support Team at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices provides specialist care and support to families who have a baby, child or young person with a life-limiting condition, or whose child has died. Rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, our teams support families across Surrey, north-west London and south-west London from diagnosis to end of life and throughout bereavement with a range of nursing, practical, emotional and medical care.

About the role

Family Support Workers (FSW) are the frontline of our care. Each FSW holds a caseload of end-of-life and bereaved families. They get to know their families, and check-in regularly with phone calls and home visits and can provide enhanced emotional support where required through more regular contact and interventions. Our FSWs tell families about the many services they can access at Shooting Star, assess their needs and make recommendations to our multi-disciplinary team. They  support families of different ethnicities and families living in poverty, helping our service be as accessible as possible.

Our FSWs work closely with our Therapists, Counsellors, Social Workers, Transition Team and our Care Events Team. Weekly MDT meetings bring the team together to think of ways to help families in crisis. The work is varied and creative, taking place at the hospices, in family homes and hospitals, allowing the support to be where the families need it. Our Family Support Workers are hugely appreciated by the families we support.

The ambition of our strategy is to ensure every family affected by a life-limiting condition, or the sudden death of a child, has access to the specialist care that they need. Day to day duties are:

• Being the on-site duty FSW, welcoming families on site, monitoring email inboxes and answering the Family Support Line.
• Helping with support groups and family events
• Providing on the spot emotional support, sometimes in a crisis where a calm and supportive response is required.
• Visiting newly bereaved families in their homes.
• Supporting families staying at our Christopher’s hospice (booked stays and end of life).
• Attending various locations over the course of a week: hospice, hospital, family homes.
• Building connections with families from different backgrounds, delivering culturally sensitive care.
• Helping safeguard families at risk of harm.
• Acting as an ambassador for Shooting Star’s Specialist Bereavement Service, supporting other care team members with their learning and delivery of the bereavement pathway, and continually seeking ways to improve what we offer families.

The post holder will need to have a UK driving license.

The hours are predominantly worked 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Once a month, the FSW will work a weekend day (with advance notice). This is in place of a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday that week.

About you

This role requires experience of working with children and families who have experienced hardship, or those with complex needs. You should have a calm, positive manner, conveying empathy whilst maintaining professional boundaries. We are looking for someone passionate about supporting children and families.

Please see the attached job description for more information about this opportunity at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

What we offer

In return you will receive a competitive salary along with a range of benefits, which include:

Pension scheme

• NHS Pension Scheme (for eligible employees) or our stakeholder pension scheme, with up to 7% employer contributions
  
  Annual leave

• 27 days plus Bank Holidays rising with length of service
• 2 weeks paid sabbatical leave after 5, 10 and 15 years’ service
  
  Contractual benefits

• Generous sick pay scheme
• Enhanced maternity, adoption, and paternity leave pay
• Flexible working arrangements
• Death in service benefits
• Reimbursed professional membership fees
• Eye care
• Employee referral scheme
• Blue Light discount card
  
  Health and wellbeing

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Occupational Health
• Mindfulness sessions
• Cycle to work scheme
• Mental Health First Aiders

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff to share this commitment. Also, we are committed to equal opportunities and consider all applicants to be in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Employment is subject to receipt of satisfactory references and a DBS check.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is committed to inclusion and diversity in everything we do. We know that getting things right is critical for us to live our organisation’s values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Excellence.

We are always trying to improve our way of working to be more inclusive and equal. Our vision is for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices to be a place where people of all backgrounds, groups and communities feel welcomed to work and volunteer.

Anticipated Start Date: 06/04/2026

36 hours per week / £36,530 per annum pro rata / permanent / working two days onsite and three days from home, working pattern to be discussed at interview

At YMCA DownsLink Group,  is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

 is delivered by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with YMCA DownsLink Group. We offer a variety of support including counselling and psychological therapies to children and young people within Brighton and Hove.

We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Wellbeing Children & Young People's (CYP) Lead to support and shape our therapeutic services for young people in Brighton and Hove.

Overview of key areas of responsibility:

Leadership

• Provide line management support and supervision to wellbeing workers (e.g. counsellors, practitioners, therapists, link workers and trainees).
• Work alongside a team of leads to support the running, development and management of the service.
• Lead induction, mentoring, and training of new staff, trainees, and volunteers.
• Foster a culture of learning, innovation, and continuous improvement across the team.

Core Clinical

• Carry out individual general counselling assessments of children and young people and make appropriate referrals.
• Provide guidance and oversight for complex or high-risk cases.
• Ensure all interventions are evidence-based, child-centred, and trauma-informed.
• Develop and oversee counselling protocols, therapeutic pathways, and risk assessment frameworks.

Safeguarding and Risk

• Lead and give oversight for safeguarding concerns, embedding a safeguarding-first culture across the service.
• Work to ensure all counsellors, staff, and link workers, are trained, confident, and compliant in safeguarding practice.
• Implement robust risk assessment and management processes.
• Monitor safeguarding incidents, identify themes, and strengthen safeguarding practice.
• Liaise with schools, health, social care, police, and other agencies in safeguarding matters.

Service Development

• Work with the Service Manager, Leads and Clinical Leads to strengthen and expand counselling provision, including group work.
• Triage referrals and represent the service in multi-agency triage meetings.
• Promote and develop opportunities for community participation and youth voice in service design.
• Build strong relationships with schools, health services, local authorities, commissioners, and community partners.
• Represent the service at local and regional forums, influencing CYP wellbeing strategies.

Please download the job profile (below), which includes detailed role description and person specification.

Qualifications, knowledge, and experience

• More than 2 years post-qualified at graduate or post graduate level Counselling Diploma or equivalent [of two years minimum duration including personal counselling or psychotherapy].
• BACP Registration or Accreditation and/or other eligible Professional Accreditation e.g. UKCP/HPC.
• Strong team-management and line-management experience is required, including demonstrated experience in supervising, developing, and supporting staff.
• A good level of understanding in therapeutic or counselling theory and practice and working to short-term models.
• A sound understanding of child developmental processes, Child Protection and Vulnerable Adult Safeguarding issues and procedures, along with proven experience in safeguarding young children.
• Solid experience in delivering counselling and/or therapy and assessment, along with experience with dealing with complex cases.
• Experience of multi-disciplinary team working, with the ability to work within time-limited frameworks.

CLOSING DATE: Tuesday 24 February 2026 at midnight. Proposed interview date Thursday 19 March 2026.

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. 

Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third-party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity checks.

36 hours per week / £36,530 per annum pro rata / permanent / working two days onsite and three days from home, working pattern to be discussed at interview

At YMCA DownsLink Group,  is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

 is delivered by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with YMCA DownsLink Group. We offer a variety of support including counselling and psychological therapies to children and young people within Brighton and Hove.

We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Wellbeing Children & Young People's (CYP) Lead to support and shape our therapeutic services for young people in Brighton and Hove.

Overview of key areas of responsibility:

Leadership

• Provide line management support and supervision to wellbeing workers (e.g. counsellors, practitioners, therapists, link workers and trainees).
• Work alongside a team of leads to support the running, development and management of the service.
• Lead induction, mentoring, and training of new staff, trainees, and volunteers.
• Foster a culture of learning, innovation, and continuous improvement across the team.

Core Clinical

• Carry out individual general counselling assessments of children and young people and make appropriate referrals.
• Provide guidance and oversight for complex or high-risk cases.
• Ensure all interventions are evidence-based, child-centred, and trauma-informed.
• Develop and oversee counselling protocols, therapeutic pathways, and risk assessment frameworks.

Safeguarding and Risk

• Lead and give oversight for safeguarding concerns, embedding a safeguarding-first culture across the service.
• Work to ensure all counsellors, staff, and link workers, are trained, confident, and compliant in safeguarding practice.
• Implement robust risk assessment and management processes.
• Monitor safeguarding incidents, identify themes, and strengthen safeguarding practice.
• Liaise with schools, health, social care, police, and other agencies in safeguarding matters.

Service Development

• Work with the Service Manager, Leads and Clinical Leads to strengthen and expand counselling provision, including group work.
• Triage referrals and represent the service in multi-agency triage meetings.
• Promote and develop opportunities for community participation and youth voice in service design.
• Build strong relationships with schools, health services, local authorities, commissioners, and community partners.
• Represent the service at local and regional forums, influencing CYP wellbeing strategies.

Please download the job profile (below), which includes detailed role description and person specification.

Qualifications, knowledge, and experience

• More than 2 years post-qualified at graduate or post graduate level Counselling Diploma or equivalent [of two years minimum duration including personal counselling or psychotherapy].
• BACP Registration or Accreditation and/or other eligible Professional Accreditation e.g. UKCP/HPC.
• Strong team-management and line-management experience is required, including demonstrated experience in supervising, developing, and supporting staff.
• A good level of understanding in therapeutic or counselling theory and practice and working to short-term models.
• A sound understanding of child developmental processes, Child Protection and Vulnerable Adult Safeguarding issues and procedures, along with proven experience in safeguarding young children.
• Solid experience in delivering counselling and/or therapy and assessment, along with experience with dealing with complex cases.
• Experience of multi-disciplinary team working, with the ability to work within time-limited frameworks.

CLOSING DATE: Tuesday 24 February 2026 at midnight. Proposed interview date Thursday 19 March 2026.

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. 

Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third-party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity checks.

Support Worker – Children’s Homes (Days or Nights)
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £27,248 – £29,490 (up to £30,682 with progression)
• Day role: £27,248 per annum
• Night role: £29,490 per annum
Hours: 40 hours per week, shift work including weekends, bank holidaysand occasional sleep-ins
Sleep-ins: £50 per session
Overtime/Bank Holidays: Paid at enhanced rates
Locations: Ealing (W13) or Balham (SW12)

Are you looking for excellent training, therapeutic support and clear career progression? Join our committed team and make a real difference to young people living in residential care, where no two days are the same.

About Us

We have a strong history of providing fostering, children’s homes and leaving-care services across the UK and the Isle of Man. Our work is underpinned by therapeutic expertise, and we place young people at the centre of everything we do. We support children and young people who are unable to remain in their parental or foster placements, offering positive, life-changing experiences, education support and life-skills development.

When you join us, you will receive a tailored development plan based on your goals. Whether you wish to progress into leadership, move services or develop further in your current role, we will support you throughout your journey.

The Role

As a Support Worker in a Children’s Home, you will provide direct care and support to young people aged 12–17 with complex emotional and mental health needs, including experiences of trauma and loss. Working within a therapeutic framework, you will build safe, trusting and professional relationships, support emotional regulation, and promote positive outcomes.

You will be responsible for safeguarding young people, supporting daily routines, liaising with professionals, and completing accurate support and care documentation. For Waking Night roles, on-call management support is provided, along with monthly team meetings and one-to-one supervision.

About You

You will have:
• At least 1 year’s experience supporting children or young people in residential, fostering, semi-independent or youth work settings
• A willingness to achieve the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare within 2 years
• A genuine commitment to helping children and young people reach their full potential
• An understanding of safeguarding and professional boundaries
• The ability to manage challenging behaviour effectively
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends, bank holidays and sleep-ins
• A commitment to ongoing training and development
• Creativity, enthusiasm and resilience

What We Offer

• A paid 4-week induction and training programme
• Clear career progression and tailored development plans
• Industry-leading training, including Level 3 qualifications
• 25 days annual leave rising to 27 days, plus bank holidays (pro-rata)
• Contributory pension, enhanced maternity and sick pay
• Life assurance (3x salary)
• BUPA employee assistance programme
• Cycle to work scheme and Blue Light Card discounts
• Employee awards and funded training opportunities

Recruitment Process

Applications must be submitted via our online form and include a supporting statement addressing the Person Specification. CVs are not accepted. The process includes an online situational test, interview, and a home visit.

Closing date: 26 February 2026