Residential Childcare Practitioner

United Children Ltd provides high-quality residential care and support for children and young people in safe, nurturing, homely environments. The organisation is committed to child-centred care that recognises each young person as an individual with unique experiences, strengths, needs, and aspirations. Dedicated teams focus on building positive, trusting relationships while supporting emotional wellbeing, education, independence, and personal development. United Children Ltd works collaboratively with young people, families, and professionals to ensure consistent, supportive care, with safeguarding and positive outcomes at the core of its practice.

The aim is to create homes where young people feel safe, valued, heard, and supported, and have genuine opportunities to thrive.

The Residential Childcare Practitioner will provide day-to-day support and care for children and young people living in the home, promoting their safety, wellbeing, and development. Responsibilities include supporting daily routines, facilitating education and recreational activities, and helping young people build life skills and independence. The role involves maintaining accurate records, contributing to care plans, and working closely with colleagues, families, and external professionals to deliver consistent and therapeutic care.

Practitioners will support behaviour management in a calm and trauma-informed manner, encourage positive choices, and act as a reliable role model. This is a full-time, on-site role based in Stoke-On-Trent.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage effectively with children, young people, families, and professionals.
• Skills in safeguarding, risk awareness, and maintaining professional boundaries, with a commitment to safe and ethical practice.
• Organisational and record-keeping skills, including the ability to follow care plans, write clear reports, and meet regulatory requirements.
• Resilience, emotional maturity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure, using de-escalation and trauma-informed approaches.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team as well as independently, using sound judgment to make decisions in the best interests of young people.
• Relevant qualification in childcare, social care, or a related field (e.g., Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent), or willingness to work towards it.
• Experience working with children or young people in residential care, education, youth work, or similar settings is highly beneficial.
• Flexibility to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays, and a full driving licence is desirable.