Youth Support Worker

We are recruiting for dedicated and compassionate Youth Support Workers to join a residential service in Oldham supporting young people aged 16–18.

The service provides a safe, supportive and nurturing environment for young people who may have experienced trauma, adverse childhood experiences, mental health difficulties, substance misuse, exploitation, family breakdown, emotional and behavioural difficulties, and challenges with independent living.

As a Youth Support Worker, you will play a key role in supporting young people on a 1:1 basis and within the home, helping them to build confidence, develop life skills, improve emotional wellbeing, and work towards positive outcomes and independence. This reflects common responsibilities in residential and youth support settings supporting vulnerable young people with mental health and behavioural needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality support to young people aged 16–18 within a residential setting.
• Build positive, professional relationships based on trust, consistency and respect.
• Support young people with their emotional wellbeing, mental health and personal development.
• Deliver 1:1 support sessions and key working responsibilities.
• Promote independence by supporting young people with daily living skills including cooking, budgeting, cleaning, shopping, laundry and managing appointments.
• Support young people to access education, training, employment and community activities.
• Encourage positive decision-making and healthy lifestyle choices.
• Manage challenging behaviour in a calm, professional and trauma-informed manner.
• Support young people affected by substance misuse, risk-taking behaviours and emotional difficulties.
• Promote safeguarding, welfare and positive outcomes at all times.
• Work closely with social workers, education providers, healthcare professionals and external agencies.
• Maintain professional boundaries while creating a safe and supportive environment for young people.
• Contribute to maintaining a welcoming, structured and homely residential environment.

What We're Looking For

• Previous experience working with young people, mental health, supported accommodation, residential care, homelessness, leaving care or social care settings.
• Understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice and supporting vulnerable young people.
• Experience supporting individuals with challenging behaviour, emotional needs, mental health difficulties or substance misuse is desirable.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and respond effectively to challenging situations.

Essential Qualities

• Compassionate and empathetic
• Resilient and patient
• Reliable and professional
• Ability to motivate and inspire young people
• Committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare

Benefits

• Ongoing training and development
• Opportunity for permanent employment
• Supportive management team
• Weekly pay
• Flexible shift patterns

If you are passionate about supporting young people and helping them overcome challenges to achieve their full potential, we would love to hear from you.