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Residential Childcare Practitioner - Casual - Stable Loving Homes

Company:Reading Borough Council
Salary:from £13.70 an hour
Hours:Part-time
Location:Reading
Working pattern:On-site
Job type:Contract
Posting date:10 Nov 2026
Closing date:29 Nov 2026
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Summary

Reading Borough Council is opening three new children’s homes in 2026 as part of our Stable Loving Homes service. These homes will offer safe, nurturing and therapeutic care for children aged 11–17 who need stability, connection and trusted adults around them.

We’re building these homes -and the teams that will bring them to life, with start dates expected from May 2026. If you’re compassionate, resilient and child‑centred, we’d love to hear from you. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer.

Looking for a role where you can genuinely change a child’s life? Join us.

Our Homes

Lime Tree House – Long‑term home for up to 4 children aged 12–17 with needs linked to their emotions and behaviours.

Oak Tree House – 4‑bed assessment home supporting children aged 12-17 through transition.

Cherry Tree House – Small therapeutic home for up to 2 children with SEMH needs aged 11-17.

All three share one purpose: giving Reading’s children a stable, loving home in their own community.

Essential requirements

What You’ll Do Build strong, trusting relationships that help children feel safe and valued Provide trauma‑informed, nurturing and consistent care Keywork children, supporting independence, routines and emotional growth Encourage education, activities and hobbies Keep care plans, risk assessments and daily records up to date Work collaboratively with families, social workers, schools and health professionals Support children through change, big emotions and important life moments Work on a rota including sleep‑ins, evenings and weekends This is work that matters: It’s emotional, rewarding, challenging - and genuinely life‑changing - we promise you, no two days are the same. What We’re Looking For You don’t need previous residential experience - we care most about your values and how you show up for children. We’re looking for people who are: Kind, reliable and child‑focused Calm under pressure and resilient Great communicators Willing to learn and complete the Level 3 Diploma Able to work flexibly as part of a supportive team Hold a driving licence and can drive the home’s vehicle Willing to work shifts including weekends and nights

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Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme

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About Disability Confident
Disability Confident is a government scheme. It encourages employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with long term health conditions.

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