Children Support Worker (Mental Health and Challenging Behaviours)

Job Title: Children Support Worker (Mental Health and Challenging Behaviours)

Job Type: Temporary role with potential to move permanent

Job Description:

We are seeking compassionate, dedicated, and experienced Children Support Workers to join our team. This role involves providing high-quality care and support to children and young people with mental health challenges and challenging behaviours in a residential setting. As part of a multidisciplinary team, you will work closely with other staff to create a nurturing and safe environment that promotes emotional, social, and educational development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 and group-based support to children with complex mental health needs and challenging behaviours.
• Assist in the development of care plans, ensuring individual needs are met in accordance with professional guidelines.
• Engage in activities to promote positive behaviour and emotional well-being.
• Foster strong, trusting relationships with children to encourage personal growth and resilience.

Behavioural Management:

• Present strategies to de-escalate challenging behaviours.
• Work collaboratively with children to develop coping mechanisms and improve emotional regulation.
• Manage incidents calmly and safely, ensuring the welfare of all parties involved.

Advocacy and Safeguarding:

• Act as an advocate for children and young people, ensuring their voices are heard and respected.
• Be vigilant in safeguarding, reporting any concerns in line with organisational policies and local safeguarding protocols.
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment at all times.

Daily Living Support

• Assist children with daily living tasks such as meal preparation and attending school or appointments.
• Support young people in developing independence and life skills.

Record-Keeping and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including incident reports, care plans, and daily logs.

Key Skills and Experience:

• Experience working with children and young people with mental health issues and/or challenging behaviours.
• Knowledge of behaviour management techniques, de-escalation strategies, and trauma-informed care.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trusting relationships.
• Ability to work under pressure and respond to challenging situations with patience and professionalism.
• A solid understanding of safeguarding practices and protocols.

Requirements:

• Experience in working with multi-disciplinary teams, including mental health and social services.
• Training in mental health first aid, therapeutic interventions, or crisis management is beneficial
• Empathetic, patient, and resilient.
• Non-judgemental and respectful of diversity.
• Adaptable and able to respond to the varying needs of children and young people.
• A team player with a strong sense of personal responsibility.

If you are passionate about helping children and young people, we encourage you to apply. Your compassion and experience can make a lasting difference.