Working in our children's homes - frequently asked questions

Explore our frequently asked questions about working in our residential homes.

Applying for a role

How do I apply? You’ll need to apply online. If you are unable to access the online application form, please email Proudtocarechildren@doncaster.gov.uk
Do you accept CVs? No, you will need to fill in an online application

Working Hours and Shifts:

What are the working hours like?
Working in residential childcare is all about ensuring we have 24/7 for the children and young people living in the homes. While hours will vary, a typical full-time role is 37 hours per a week and part time is 18.5 hours per a week. Other hours will be considered in line with rota requirements.
Shifts: Include mornings, evenings, weekends, and sleep-ins. Rotas may vary slightly per home.
Sleep-in Shifts: Paid separately at £41.78 per shift.

Do I need to work weekends?
Yes, the role involves weekend work to ensure 24/7 care for the children. The role involves working a mixture of mornings, evenings, and weekends and sleeping in overnight in the children’s home. This can include working bank holidays which include Christmas and New Year. We ensure a fair balance shared between the teams.

Most homes have adapted rotas to have every other weekend off to create a better work life balance on a full-time role you’d work 37 hours a week over 5 days. We can’t make exceptions to not work weekends as have to provide 24/7 care to some of the most vulnerable young people in Doncaster.

What are the specific shift patterns?

Residential Care Officer and Senior: 7am-3pm, 2pm-10pm, 2pm-11pm (sleep-in), 7am-2pm.
Waking Nights Officer: 10pm-7am (rolling rota, averaging 21 hours per week).

Qualifications and Experience:

Is an NVQ Level 3 required for the role? Staff are required to complete a Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare or equivalent within 2 years employment. We will support you to obtain this qualification if you don’t already have it after the successful completion of your probation period.
I am currently completing a level 3 diploma in residential childcare, could this be transferred over to the Council for me to complete? Yes, this can be transferred over.
Do you require qualified staff or staff with experience? We welcome qualified staff and people with experience that is transferable. We like to have a mix in our teams, if successful for an interview we ask questions linked to the job profile.

Pay and Benefits:

What is the starting salary? Salaries range from £27,259 to £29,955 per annum, plus an 8.5% inclusive allowance for unsocial hours.
How is experience considered in salary? Starting salaries are generally at the bottom of the pay grade. However, we consider experience, qualifications, and knowledge during the assessment/interview process for potential adjustments to the starting salary.

Relief worker

How many shifts will be available each month? This will depend on the needs of the service and your availability i.e., if you are picking up shifts around current employment.

Other

Where are the children’s homes based? We have 6 homes located throughout Doncaster: Hatfield x 2, Sprotbrough, Scawthorpe, Rossington and Armthorpe
What is the age range of the young people I would be working with? 7 – 17 years old
How many young people will be living in the home? This will depend on the home that you will be based at. We have some homes that can accommodate 1-4 young people.
Is a driving license required for the role? Yes, a valid driving license (automatic or manual) is required.