Short Breaks Worker - Waltham Forest & Hackney

Are you looking for a flexible role where you can make a real difference to disabled children and young people?

Kids is looking for Sessional Short Breaks Workers to provide 1:1 support to disabled children and young people. This is a rewarding, flexible role where every session is shaped around the individual child’s interests — no two days are the same.

You’ll support children both in their homes and out in the community, helping them enjoy meaningful activities while building confidence, independence, and life skills.

You may support children and young people with autism, learning disabilities, physical disabilities and complex needs.

Sessional Short Breaks Worker

Location: Across Waltham Forest and Hackney, including E10, E11, E17, E4, N16, E8, E9 and E5
Hours: Flexible sessional hours are available during evenings, weekends, and school holidays
Pay: £14.80 per hour (£16.59 per hour including holiday pay)

What You’ll Do

• Provide 1:1 short breaks for disabled children and young people
• Support children to access activities based on their interests, such as:
  • Trips to parks, soft play, museums, and shops
  • Swimming, cycling, and other physical activities
• Promote independence, inclusion, and positive outcomes
• Provide practical and emotional support in a safe, person-centred way
• Work towards goals set out in each child’s individual support plan

Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking caring, enthusiastic, and reliable individuals who:

• Have an understanding of the needs of disabled children and young people
• Are committed to safeguarding and promoting wellbeing
• Can communicate effectively and adapt their approach to each child
• Are confident working independently and using their initiative
• Are available to work evenings, weekends, and school holidays

Experience working with disabled children is desirable but not essential.

Desirable (but not essential)

• Childcare qualifications (NVQ or equivalent)
• Paediatric first aid certificate
• Moving and handling training

Why Join Kids?

• Flexible work – ideal for students, parents, or alongside other roles
• Make a real difference – your support directly impacts children and families
• Training and development – we’ll support you to grow your skills and confidence
• Supportive team – be part of a passionate organisation making positive change in the community

Benefits:

• Paid training
• Flexible working opportunities
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Pension scheme
• Mileage/travel expenses (if applicable)
• Opportunities to progress within Kids

Kids is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS checks, satisfactory references and safer recruitment procedures.

Please see the attached Job Description for full details about the role.

We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications, so we recommend submitting your application as soon as possible.