Residential Care Practitioner – Children & Young People
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council invites applications for the role of Residential Care Practitioner – Children & Young People.
Salary: £27,694 – £30,518 pro rata, inclusive of atypical payments for evenings, weekends and bank holidays. A separate payment is made for sleep‑ins (£43.12).
Hours: Full time – 37 hours per week (part‑time considered where business needs allow). A clear career pathway, training and a funded Level 4 qualification (where required) are provided.
About the Role
You will provide comprehensive induction and training, delivering a safe, nurturing and therapeutic environment in the new residential homes for children aged 7‑17 with Emotional and Behavioural difficulties (EBD). Your day‑to‑day duties include:
- Supporting children and young people in daily activities, such as school runs, food shopping, movie nights and recreational outings.
- Contributing to the development, implementation and review of individual care plans.
- Attending multidisciplinary meetings and liaising with professionals to support children’s progress.
- Building positive, role‑model relationships, helping children address challenges and develop resilience.
- Maintaining a safe and inclusive environment and ensuring safeguarding procedures are followed.
Our Offer to You
- Competitive pay with clear career progression.
- Funded Level 4 qualification in Residential Care (where required). Professional development through the Children’s Social Care Academy.
- Local government pension scheme.
- 25 days annual leave rising to 30 days after 5 years; pay‑up for up to 10 extra days.
- Shift patterns designed for a healthy work‑life balance.
- Employee Assistance Programme – 24‑hour confidential support.
- Family‑ and carer‑friendly policies; staff discounts; subsidised travel passes; Cycle 2 Work Scheme.
About You
- Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent); or GCSE Maths & English grade C/4 or above and willingness to complete a Level 4 Diploma within 2 years.
- Experience in a health, social care or educational setting, having dealt with challenging behaviours.
- Committed to the welfare of vulnerable children and young people, with a strong understanding of safeguarding.
- Excellent communication, strong self‑awareness and ability to build relationships with children.
- A passion for learning, self‑reflection and continuous improvement.
- For non‑disabled applicants: essential car user status – must hold a valid driving licence and have access to a car (reasonable adjustments for disabled applicants).
Assessment & Selection
Assessment will comprise two stages:
- Pre‑screening phone call.
- Interview for shortlisted candidates.
Applications are reviewed in regular intervals; please submit promptly. CVs are not accepted.
Compliance
This post is subject to compliance checks in line with Schedule 2 requirements for working in a children’s home, including a pre‑employment medical check and DBS check.
Equal Opportunities
Solihull Council is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit.
Solihull Council maintains a responsibility for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk; all staff and volunteers share this commitment.
Closing date: 13 January 2026
Interviews will be held during the week commencing 26 January 2026
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