Salary
Voluntary position (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
Specific Hours
Commitment of approximately 30–40 days per year
Who are Fair Ways and what do we stand for?
Fair Ways is a leading children’s services charity based in the Solent, delivering Fostering, Education, Residential and Family services and caring for over 400 children, families, young people and vulnerable adults each year.
Where and when do we need you?
We are recruiting support workers across our residential children’s homes on the South Coast. Our homes provide a structured, homely, and nurturing environment for children who benefit from clear boundaries and structure, supporting the development of independent life skills within a therapeutic caring environment.
What you will do
- Building respectful impactful relationships – proactively maintaining safe and respectful relationships with children through effective support, guidance and care ensuring the maintenance of safe professional boundaries in line with best practice.
- Advocating for children in care and ensuring they have a voice – engaging in key work responsibilities for nominated children within the home, providing the children in our care with a consistent adult presence and an identified member of the team linked to their specific support plans.
- Taking an active role in play, activities and confidence building – being actively involved in the planning and execution of a range of enriching opportunities for the children through different mediums such as crafts, outdoor activities, play and learning to provide an enjoyable, varied and engaged home environment.
- Supporting positive lifestyle choices – demonstrating the therapeutic importance of maintaining a clean, tidy and homely environment through effective role modelling and education, promoting high standards of physical care, hygiene and safety and demonstrating positive and healthy choices to support children to develop and thrive.
- Being a Trauma‑Informed professional – using our industry recognised RiiSE training to deliver trauma‑informed responses through the individualised use of therapeutic and, where appropriate, physical intervention to ensure our children are supported appropriately during times of crisis.
- Keeping vulnerable children and young people safe – managing any child protection issues that may occur through effective reporting in line with the policies and procedures of the residential home in partnership with the senior leadership team and any relevant external agency to keep children safe from harm for the duration of their placement with Fair Ways.
This role is offered on a full‑time/permanent basis, working as part of a rolling rota (Monday – Sunday) following a 2 on/4 off shift pattern to include 1 sleep for every other block worked. Days start at around 07:00 and finish at around 22:30 (depending on the home you work in) and during this time you will have the opportunity to have all meals provided as the nature of your role will include mealtimes with the children and other staff.
All candidates must have a full driving licence and have access to the use of a car. Successful candidates will be required to provide an enhanced Disclosure (DBS). This disclosure cost will be met by Fair Ways. Fair Ways cannot provide VISA sponsorship for this role and all applicants must be able to provide evidence of right to work in the UK.
Desirable (but not Essential)
- To hold or be happy to work towards a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Child Care or equivalent.
- Demonstrable experience in working with children and/or young people will be required with additional line management experience beneficial.
Benefits
- Exciting Opportunities – participate in free staff lotteries with amazing prizes, such as £1000 holiday vouchers, weekends away, luxury hampers, a £1000 fostering referral scheme and vouchers.
- Work‑Life Balance – enjoy a Holiday Accrual Scheme, an extra day of annual leave as a ‘wellbeing day’ and the option to purchase additional holidays (up to 5 days).
- Health and Support – benefit from Simply Health, our health cash plan, and access to our Employee Assistance Scheme, providing emergency financial assistance and 24/7 counselling services. Access your salary when you need it with Early Pay – the ability to withdraw an amount of your salary early each month to assist with any unforeseen circumstances.
- Growth and Development – unlock your potential with our Education Grant, offering funding for accreditation up to master’s level. Engage in leadership courses to enhance your skills and progress in your career.
- Wellbeing Matters – experience team‑building days, summer festivals, and well‑being initiatives, promoting a positive work environment. Take advantage of discounted gym memberships and a cycle‑to‑work scheme to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Recognition and Rewards – be appreciated for your dedication through annual Staff Awards and Long Service Awards. Build a secure future with our pension scheme and gain eligibility for a Blue Light Card.
- Supportive Community – be part of our diverse workforce that embraces all communities. We value your unique perspective and encourage you to contribute to an inclusive and vibrant culture.
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