Waking Nights Support Worker

CareTech PLC; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 10,000 - GBP 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading care provider in Plymouth is offering a Waking Nights Support Worker position to ensure safety and stability for vulnerable children during the night. This essential role involves monitoring wellbeing, providing emotional support, and maintaining a peaceful environment. Ideal candidates will have empathy for young people, strong written skills, and ideally some experience in residential childcare. A competitive hourly wage of £14.60 is offered along with ongoing professional development and employee support.

Benefits

Competitive hourly rate

Fully funded qualifications

24/7 employee wellbeing support

Paid holiday

Pension scheme

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in residential childcare or a similar support role is desirable.
• Understanding of professional boundaries is essential.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and trauma-informed practices is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide a calm, consistent, and reassuring presence throughout the night.
• Monitor children’s wellbeing and respond to any needs.
• Carry out regular checks to ensure safety and security.
• Maintain accurate documentation and handovers.
• Support bedtime and morning routines.

Skills

Natural empathy for children

Reliability and resilience

Strong written communication skills

Ability to remain calm under pressure

Flexibility and commitment

Education

NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or willingness to work towards it)

Job description

Location

Plymouth

Contract

Bank / Zero Hour Contract, Full Time, Part Time

Role Type

Permanent

Salary

£14.60 per hour

Closing Date

Sunday 22 February 2026

Job Title

Waking Nights Support Worker

Are you a calm, compassionate, and resilient individual looking to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children and young people? We are seeking a Waking Nights Support Worker to join our dedicated team within our Children’s Residential Homes across Torbay and Plymouth.

This is a crucial role, providing safety, stability, and emotional reassurance throughout the night in a therapeutic, trauma-informed environment. You’ll help ensure the children in our care feel safe, secure, and supported during the hours when they need it most.

About Us

Our residential homes provide a nurturing, structured, and child-centred environment for children and young people who have experienced trauma, neglect, or significant early‑life challenges. We work closely with social workers, therapists, and education professionals to deliver holistic care that supports emotional wellbeing, resilience, and positive long‑term outcomes.

About The Role

As a Waking Nights Support Worker, you will:

• Provide a calm, consistent, and reassuring presence throughout the night
• Monitor children’s wellbeing and respond appropriately to any distress, incidents, or needs
• Carry out regular checks to ensure the home remains safe, secure, and peaceful
• Maintain accurate documentation, including night logs, safeguarding records, and handovers for the day team
• Support bedtime and morning routines, including waking children, preparing breakfast, and assisting with personal care where required
• Promote a therapeutic and stable environment in line with individual care plans and behavioural strategies

This is a waking role. You will be required to remain awake and alert for the full duration of the shift.

About You

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has a natural empathy for children and young people
• Can remain calm and emotionally responsive in challenging situations
• Is reliable, resilient, and understands professional boundaries
• Is confident working independently through the night while being part of a wider team
• Has strong written communication skills for clear and accurate reporting
• Is flexible and committed to the needs of the home and its residents

Desirable

• Experience in residential childcare or a similar support role
• NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or willingness to work towards it)
• Knowledge of safeguarding, trauma-informed practice, and behaviour management techniques

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly rate of £14.60 per hour
• Fully funded qualifications and ongoing professional development
• 24/7 employee wellbeing support
• A supportive, inclusive, and values-led team culture
• Clear career progression opportunities within a growing organisation
• Paid holiday, pension scheme, and additional employee benefits

Interested applicants are invited to apply before the closing date.