Waking Night Support Worker

Job description

Job DescriptionJoin Our Team as a Waking Night Support Worker!

Company: Apple Orchard

Salary: £28,619.14 per annum (with opportunities for overtime)

Location: Horsham, West Sussex

Contract: Full Time, Permanent

Specific Hours: Up to 55 hours per week, depending on the home and rota pattern

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary with potential for overtime earnings
• Comprehensive induction and ongoing training
• Fully funded Level 3 qualification
• Company pension plan
• Access to employee discounts and wellbeing programs
• Clear career progression opportunities into senior and leadership roles
• A supportive team culture with experienced colleagues

At Apple Orchard, we provide high-quality residential care across five children's homes in Surrey and West Sussex. We support boys aged 12-18 in calm, therapeutic settings where they can feel safe, valued, and understood.

By joining our team, you’ll be part of a caring and professional environment where relationships are at the heart of everything we do. You’ll support young people who have faced trauma and adversity, helping them build confidence, develop life skills, and achieve their potential. Your support can make a lasting impact, whether you’re guiding a young person through a tough day or celebrating their personal milestones.

This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is caring, resilient, and committed to making a difference. No prior experience in residential childcare is necessary; if you have the right values, attitude, and willingness to learn, we will provide you with the training and support you need to thrive in this role.

What You'll Do:

• Work varied rota patterns, including:
  • 10:00 PM to 9:00 AM shifts, averaging 40 hours per week on a 4 nights on, 4 nights off rota
  • An average of 55 hours per week on a 5 nights on, 5 nights off rota, with additional shifts as required
• Safeguard and promote the welfare of young people in line with the Children Act 1989
• Attend team meetings, supervision sessions, and mandatory training
• Complete handovers and stay informed about each young person's needs
• Build positive relationships to support young people's emotional and practical wellbeing
• Promote bedtime routines, personal hygiene, and healthy lifestyle choices
• Conduct night-time welfare checks and accurately record significant events
• Complete all required nightly records and documentation
• Prepare the breakfast area and maintain cleanliness in communal spaces
• Undertake additional duties as requested by your line manager
• Ensure the safety and security of the home and young people at all times

What We're Looking For:

Essential:

• A genuine passion for making a positive difference in children's lives
• A caring, resilient, and patient approach, with the ability to stay calm under pressure
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and sleep-ins
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle due to the rural location of some homes

Helpful but not essential:

• Experience in care, education, youth work, mental health, or similar settings
• Level 3 qualification in Residential Childcare, Families Practitioner, or Health and Social Care, or willingness to work towards one
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• A team-focused attitude, good sense of humour, and emotional resilience
• Confidence in following procedures, writing reports, and contributing to care plans

What Are You Waiting For?

Apply today and take the first step towards a fulfilling career where you can truly make a difference!

Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, expecting all staff to share this commitment.

Successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

horsham

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

03-11-2026

Profession type

Counselling and Social Services

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English