Job Description

Senior Therapeutic Child Care Practitioner
Location: Hartlepool - Based in a Residential Childcare Setting
Salary: £30,014.40 per annum (£15.60/hour) + sleep-ins, mileage, and overtime (paid at time and a half)
Full-time | Permanent | Includes sleep-ins & shift work

Are you passionate about making a real and lasting difference in the lives of children and young people? Do you have the experience and leadership skills to provide therapeutic care and guide a team within a residential childcare setting? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Therapeutic Child Care Practitioner to join a dedicated and supportive team in a well-established residential children's service.

About the Role
As a Senior Practitioner, you'll play a pivotal role in ensuring the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of the children in your care. You will lead by example, provide structure and consistency, and work closely with families, professionals, and your team to deliver the highest standards of care.
You'll also be responsible for mentoring staff, deputising in the absence of management, and contributing to the effective delivery of care plans, safeguarding practices, and personal development programmes for young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a small team to implement daily care plans
• Act as a positive role model and promote high standards of professional practice
• Take responsibility for key working duties, including care planning and progress reporting
• Ensure medication administration, health plans, and safeguarding procedures are followed
• Contribute to reviews, care assessments, and liaise with external agencies
• Support the promotion of education, well-being, and identity in young people
• Maintain effective risk assessments and support behavioural management plans
• Engage in recreational and community activities with children
• Contribute to the upkeep and safe operation of the home

What We're Looking For
Essential:

• Minimum 2 years' experience in a social care/residential childcare setting
• Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (or equivalent)
• Strong communication skills - verbal and written
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A positive, resilient, and caring attitude
• Full UK driving license and use of a car for work (business insurance required)
• Ability to work shifts including sleep-ins

Desirable:

• Recognised Social Work Qualification
• Experience engaging with young people with complex emotional needs
• Familiarity with therapeutic care approaches and multi-agency collaboration

What's in It for You

• Competitive salary and enhanced overtime rates
• Paid mileage and sleep-ins
• Excellent training and development opportunities
• Supportive and inclusive team environment
• Opportunity to make a genuine difference in young lives

Apply Now
If you're ready to take the next step in your childcare career and join a passionate, child-focused team, we'd love to hear from you. Submit your CV today to be considered.