Reading Borough Council • Reading, Berkshire
About this role
Make a real difference - help us create homes where children can heal, grow and thrive.
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.
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.
The working pattern for these roles are 9.45pm – 7.15am.
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
Team Reading Values
You’ll be part of a culture shaped by four core values
Work Together as One Team - collaborate, support each other and put children first.
Drive Efficiency - bring ideas, improve practice and use resources wisely.
Be Ambitious - aim high for yourself and the children you support.
Make a Difference to Reading - provide the right support at the right time.
These values shape how we work every day and they’re at the core of Stable Loving Homes.
Why Join Us?
Competitive salary including shift allowance
Strong career progression and leadership pathways
Fully funded Level 3 qualification (if required)
High‑quality training, reflective practice and clinical support
25 days annual leave + Bank holidays (rising to 33 + Bank holidays days with service)
Local Government Pension Scheme
Life assurance (LGPS members)
Blue Light Card, as well a comprehensive range of discounts available through our Team reading rewards platform
Season ticket loan & lease car scheme
Supportive, values‑driven environment
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you want a role with purpose, connection and real impact - this is it.
Find out more
Stable Loving Homes - Brighter Futures For Children
Closing date
Sunday 14th June 2026
Interviews
To be confirmed
Please note
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship, so applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme
Disability Confident
About Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to Disability Confident.