Most night shifts in care feel isolating: you're managing crises alone, filling time, counting down the hours. This role is different. You'll be part of a tight-knit team in a residential home where the young people you support actually need you most during the quiet hours, and where your presence makes a measurable difference to their safety, stability and growth
Working waking nights in a children's home isn't about supervision from a distance. You're the adult they trust when the world feels overwhelming, when routines matter most, and when a calm presence can prevent a young person spiralling. You'll build genuine relationships with the same group of young people across your shifts, learning what helps them settle, what triggers them, and how to be the steady influence they rarely get elsewhere
This provider operates 17 homes across the North West, West Midlands and North Wales, specialising in emotional and behavioural difficulties, specialist therapeutic care, and supported accommodation. That means proper infrastructure, proper training, and colleagues who understand complex needs. You won't be winging it; you'll be part of a values-led organisation that has been doing this well since 2007
The 2:4 shift pattern with sleep-ins on a rolling 6 day rota (averaging 40 hours) gives you genuine flexibility and predictability. You'll lead shifts when appropriate, take on key worker responsibilities, and have real room to grow. Many team members progress into senior roles, training delivery, and management within the organisation because there's genuine investment in people who show commitment
What you will be doing
- Provide waking night supervision and support, building positive relationships with young people during evening, night and early morning hours
- Implement and support individualised care plans, development goals and emotional well-being strategies specific to each young person's needs
- Maintain safeguarding, consistent routines and clear behavioural boundaries, acting calmly and confidently when situations arise
- Complete accurate records, handover documentation and liaise with day staff, families and external professionals about young people's progress and any concerns
- Act as key worker for assigned young people, leading shifts and mentoring less experienced staff where appropriate
Why you will love working here
- Clear, predictable 2:4 shift pattern with sleep-ins on a rolling 6 day rota, averaging 40 hours per week, so you can actually plan your life
- Genuine investment in your development: the organisation actively supports staff progression into senior roles, training delivery and management, with a commitment to fund your Level 3 Diploma if you don't already hold it
- Work for a values-led provider with 17 homes and genuine scale, meaning proper training infrastructure, clinical support, and a team of colleagues who truly understand complex needs
- Key worker responsibilities and shift leadership opportunities mean real career progression and the chance to shape how care is delivered, not just execute plans from above
Is this you?
- Are you someone who can build genuine, respectful relationships with young people and colleagues even on difficult nights, and stay calm under pressure?
- Do you have a full UK driving licence and genuine flexibility to work shifts including weekends and sleep-ins on a rolling rota?
- Are you competent in Microsoft Office (or willing to learn quickly), with strong verbal and written communication skills?
- Have you worked with children or vulnerable people, or do you have a Level 3 Diploma in childcare or an equivalent qualification (or are you committed to working towards one)?
- Do you see yourself as a positive role model with real integrity, someone who takes safeguarding, child development and trauma-informed practice seriously?
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.