Childrens Residential Support Worker – Bedford, Bedfordshire – MK40
Employer: Homes2Inspire (part of Shaw Trust Group)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent, 40 hours per week
Salary: £29,767 - £31,579 per annum (£14.31 - £15.18 per hour) + sleep-in allowance (£50.00 per sleep) + attendance bonus
Location: Bedford, MK40
Have you ever thought about a career in children’s residential care but don’t have the experience? Homes2inspire offer full training and industry qualifications to support you in your career to work with children and young people.
We are looking for people who genuinely want to make a difference to the lives of children and young people who live in residential care, who have the right values, attitude and willingness to learn.
If you are emotionally resilient, able to stay calm under pressure, and confident supporting young people who may display behaviours that challenge then we want to hear from you!
About Homes2Inspire
Homes2Inspire are one of the UK’s leading providers of children’s homes, caring for over 150 children across 56 homes and 2 semi-independent leaving care facilities. We are proud to be part of the Shaw Trust Group, a charity dedicated to transforming lives across the UK.
About the Home:
Harpury House is a 4 bedded childrens home based in Bedford – MK40. Supporting children and young people up to the age of 18 – the home provides a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment by offering emotional and practical support to help children develop life skills and build confidence.
The home currently supports children and young people between the ages of 11 – 15, whom are all very active and outgoing and enjoy taking part in activities both in the home as well as out in the community. We are therefore looking for support workers who enjoy being busy and active!
The Role:
As a Residential Support Worker, you will:
- Safeguard and promote the wellbeing of young people in our care.
- Support with daily routines, household tasks, and meal preparation.
- Encourage participation in community activities and hobbies.
- Transport young people to school, medical appointments, and activities.
- Act as a positive role model, setting clear boundaries and building trust.
- Help young people develop life skills, including managing finances.
- Maintain accurate records and paperwork.
- Work flexibly, including evenings, weekends, bank holidays, and sleep-ins (1–2 per week).
What You’ll Bring
- Compassion, patience, and a genuine desire to make a difference.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to remain calm in challenging situations.
- Willingness to work towards QCF Level 3 in Residential Childcare (fully funded).
- Honesty, empathy, and a commitment to being a positive role model.
- Drivers with a FULL UK license are essential.
Shifts:
- Contracted to work 40 hours per week
- Double shift with sleep in Eg 0730 – 2230 plus 1 – 2 sleeps per week
- Week one - 2 shifts per week / week two – 3 shifts per week
What We Offer
- Competitive salary (£29,767 - £31, 579) per annum).
- Sleep-in allowance (£50.00 per sleep).
- Overtime opportunities.
- Comprehensive training and career development pathways.
- Generous annual leave, with option to purchase 5 extra days.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and wellbeing support.
- Unum Healthcare - App-based access to healthcare reimbursements, mental health support, remote GP, and wellbeing perks
- Aviva Digicare - Access free healthcare services including Digital GP consultation, Annual Health Check and Mental Health Assessments
- Refer a Friend bonus.
- Discounts on shopping, cinema, holidays, plus Blue Light Card access.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Subsidised days out with young people.
- Recognition awards for long service and attendance.
- Meals included during shifts.
Important Information
- Must be able to work 40 hours per week plus sleeps
- Sleep-ins are required (average 1–2 per week).
- We cannot offer sponsorshipor part time hours
- Drivers with a FULL UK licence are essential
How to Apply
If you’re looking for a new job in Bedford and are passionate about making a positive impact in young people’s lives, apply today!
Please Note:
- All successful candidates will be subject to pre-employment safer recruitment checks in line with Ofsted regulatory requirements and Homes2Inspire Safer Recruitment Policy.
- Candidate applications will be reviewed regularly, and we reserve the right to interview candidates before the advertised closing date of this role.
Pay: £29,767.00-£31,579.00 per year
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Casual dress
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee discount
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Paid training
- Store discount
Application question(s):
- Do you hold a FULL UK drivers licence, drivers are essential for the role
- Do you have full right to work in the UK, please note, we cannot offer sponsorships or cannot offer part time hours
Work Location: In person
