Support Worker

We’re looking for committed, resilient professionals to support 16–25 year olds in our Ofsted-regulated supported accommodation homes across Southampton.

It’s a professional support role where you’ll work directly with young people, helping them build the skills, independence and the confidence they'll need for adulthood. You’ll manage risk, maintain clear boundaries and play a vital part in shaping their future.You’re expected to work a full-time rota of 14-hour shifts, each with sleep-in duties. Further sleep-ins are available and paid at a competitive rate.

Salary & Structure

• 42-hour contract (14-hour shifts)
• 3 sleep-ins per week (included in rota)
• Additional sleep-ins paid at a competitive rate
• Enhanced overtime rates

What You’ll Do

• Support young people with routines, education, budgeting, appointments and independence
• Manage behaviour and risk professionally, calmly and consistently
• Record clear daily observations, contribute to support and risk plans
• Offer key work, emotional support and mentoring
• Maintain a safe, positive and respectful home environment
• Uphold safeguarding and professional standards at all times
• Lone working is standard, with escalation support always available

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking high-quality support workers who take pride in their professionalism.

Essential:

• Resilience, patience and excellent communication
• Clear professional boundaries with young people
• Confidence working alone and using sound judgement
• Reliable, consistent and accountable
• Comfortable writing factual reports and following plans
• Willing to work long shifts including sleep-ins

Preferred:

• 1+ year in residential childcare, supported accommodation, youth work or similar
• Level 3 or 4 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or willingness to gain it)
• Driving licence is useful but not required

Competitive Pay

We believe great work should be recognised – and rewarded.

• Sleep-ins paid separately - with potential to increase your earnings further
• Enhanced overtime rates - for those who want to pick up extra shifts
• Annual appraisals and pay reviews - tied to performance and progression

Employee Benefits

• 5.6 weeks equivalent annual leave
• Bonus scheme
• Free gym membership
• Free meals on shift
• Blue Light Card eligibility
• Casual dress
• Company events
• Wellbeing programme
• Paid DBS and update service

Professional Development

• Paid induction
• Fully funded qualifications - including NVQ Level 4
• Ongoing career development and internal progression as the company expands

About Oaktree

Oaktree Education Services provides supported accommodation for 16–25 year olds across Southampton. We're a small, focused team with a high standard of care, regulated by Ofsted. We’re building a service focused on high-quality care, consistency, and accountability. As we grow, so do the opportunities for professional development and leadership within the organisation. You’ll join a team that believes in structure, clarity, and giving young people a real chance.

Safeguarding

Oaktree is committed to the highest standards of safeguarding. All offers are subject to:

• Enhanced DBS
• Two professional references
• Right to work in the UK (we do not offer visa sponsorship)

Ready to Apply?

If you’re an experienced support worker looking for proper pay, clear standards, and a team that has your back – apply now.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £38,678.64-£41,604.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Discounted or free food
• Gym membership
• Health & wellbeing programme

Work Location: In person