Residential Care Worker
Location: Hailsham, East Sussex
Salary: £27,378–£36,000 per year
Contract: Full-time, 40.5 hours per week
Lotus Recruitment is seeking dependable, emotionally resilient and committed Residential Care Workers to support children and young people aged 8–18 with Autism, SEMH needs and complex needs.
This is a rewarding but demanding role, suited to individuals who can demonstrate confidence, sound judgement and the ability to build positive relationships with young people who may have experienced trauma or face challenges with emotional regulation and behaviour.
We are looking for people who are reliable, proactive and able to take responsibility within a structured residential environment, helping young people develop independence, confidence and essential life skills.
The Role
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Supporting children and young people with their daily routines and personal development.
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Building positive, trusting and consistent relationships.
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Helping young people navigate challenging situations and regulate their emotions.
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Encouraging independence, confidence and positive choices.
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Supporting activities, appointments and community visits.
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Maintaining accurate records and completing detailed handovers.
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Following safeguarding procedures and individual care plans.
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Working collaboratively with colleagues to provide consistent, high-quality care.
Working Pattern
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40.5 contracted hours per week.
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Three 13.5-hour shifts per week.
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Two-week rotating rota.
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Availability to work every other weekend is essential.
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Participation in on-call duties twice per month is required.
Essential Requirements
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Full UK driving licence and confidence driving.
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Full right to work in the UK – sponsorship is not available.
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Flexibility to commit to the full shift pattern, including alternate weekends.
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Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
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Emotional resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
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Confidence managing challenging behaviour and supporting emotional regulation.
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A responsible, consistent and safeguarding-focused approach.
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The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Experience
Previous experience in residential care, children's services, education, youth work, mental health or support work would be beneficial.
We particularly welcome applications from individuals who can demonstrate experience supporting children and young people with additional needs, Autism, SEMH or behaviours that may challenge.
Transferable experience will also be considered.
What's on Offer?
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Salary of £27,378–£36,000 depending on experience.
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Paid training and ongoing professional development.
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Free on-site parking.
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Full-time, contracted hours.
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The opportunity to make a genuine difference to the lives of children and young people.
All successful applicants will be subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
If you are dependable, emotionally resilient and passionate about helping children and young people feel safe, supported and able to reach their potential, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today with your CV and a member of the Lotus Recruitment team will be in touch
