Locum Children's Support Worker - PMVA Trained

Locum Children's Support Worker - PMVA trained

• Children's Residential Home, Stowmarket, Suffolk
• 6-month contract, from around beginning of April
• Full-time hours on a rota'd basis
• £13-£14 per hour

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Locum Children's Support Worker with PMVA training (3-day course) to work within a Children's Residential Home based in Stowmarket, Suffolk.

The ideal candidate will have experience in working with vulnerable children and young people, demonstrating the ability to provide safe, respectful, and effective care. This role is crucial in promoting a positive and secure environment for the children in our care, using their skills in de-escalation and physical intervention when required.

Key Responsibilities

Child Care & Support

1. Provide day-to-day care and support to children and young people, assisting with daily activities such as mealtimes, personal care, and hygiene.
2. Foster emotional development by offering support during moments of distress or difficulty.
3. Help with schoolwork, recreational activities, and encourage socialization and positive relationships.

Safety & Wellbeing

1. Ensure the safety and well-being of children at all times.
2. Monitor behaviours and be proactive in identifying risks or signs of distress.
3. Apply PMVA techniques as required, using physical intervention only when necessary and in line with policies and training.
4. Assist in creating and maintaining risk assessments and care plans for individual children.

Promote Independence

1. Encourage and support children in building independent living skills, including managing personal finances, cooking, and other life skills.
2. Act as a positive role model, demonstrating appropriate behaviours and interactions.

Behaviour Management

1. Work with the team to manage and de-escalate challenging behaviours using non-violent crisis intervention techniques.
2. Maintain a calm, professional approach during difficult or stressful situations.
3. Record and report incidents in accordance with the home's policies.

Teamwork & Communication

1. Collaborate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and external professionals to provide holistic care for each child.
2. Participate in regular team meetings and training sessions to ensure continued professional development.
3. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of the children's progress and behavioural reports.

Safeguarding

1. Follow safeguarding policies and procedures, reporting any concerns in line with statutory requirements.
2. Be vigilant in identifying any signs of neglect, abuse, or exploitation, ensuring that appropriate actions are taken.

Skills & Qualifications

1. PMVA (Prevention and Management of Violence and Aggression) certification is required (3-day course).
2. Experience working with children with complex needs, including those with emotional and behavioural difficulties.
3. Understanding of child development, safeguarding, and emotional/behavioural challenges.
4. Ability to manage challenging behaviours and maintain a positive, calm, and patient approach.
5. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
6. A compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental attitude.
7. Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team.
8. NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in Health & Social Care or Children and Young People's Workforce.
9. Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required.
10. A full driving license.