Behind every well-run children’s home is a team of dedicated, highly trained professionals who are committed to creating a safe, stable, and nurturing environment. These aren’t just staff, they are mentors, protectors, advocates, and emotional anchors for children who may have never experienced consistent adult support.
At Welcare, we invest in people who understand trauma, care deeply, and always put the child first.
Key Roles in a Children’s Home
Residential Support Workers (RSWs)
Often the most consistent adults in a child’s daily life, RSWs:
- Provide 24/7 care and supervision
- Support children with personal routines, emotional regulation, and school attendance
- Build trusting relationships through empathy, patience, and structure
They are trained in safeguarding, de-escalation, therapeutic approaches, and child development.
Key Workers
Each child is assigned a Key Worker who becomes their main point of support. Their responsibilities include:
- Advocating for the child’s needs and wishes
- Coordinating care plans and therapeutic input
- Supporting regular reviews and educational progress
Key Workers play a central role in helping children build a sense of identity, belonging, and resilience.
Registered Manager
The Registered Manager oversees the entire home. They:
- Ensure legal compliance and alignment with Ofsted’s 9 Quality Standards
- Manage the staff team, rotas, and supervision
- Liaise with external agencies (local authority, CAMHS, schools)
- Lead the home’s culture and ensure safeguarding is upheld at all times
At Welcare, our managers are experienced leaders with a background in social care and trauma-informed practice.
Deputy Manager / Team Leaders
They assist the Registered Manager by:
- Supervising staff day-to-day
- Supporting new placements
- Ensuring consistency across shifts and care delivery
Their role is vital for maintaining smooth operations and staff morale.
Therapists and Clinical Supervisors
Depending on the home’s model, these may include:
- Child psychologists
- Play therapists
- Behavioural specialists
- Clinical supervisors for staff wellbeing
In Welcare’s trauma-informed homes, regular therapeutic input
is built into weekly routines.
Recruitment and Vetting
We don’t just hire for qualifications, we look for compassion, integrity, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
All staff undergo:
Enhanced DBS checks
Rigorous reference and background screening
Mandatory induction and probation periods
Ongoing training in safeguarding, first aid, trauma, equality, and legislation
How Are Staff Supported?
Caring for vulnerable children is a demanding role. At Welcare, we protect our staff through:
- Clinical supervision and reflective practice
- Ongoing CPD and skills development
- Clear protocols, policies, and escalation procedures
- A strong team culture where staff are heard and supported
Happy, supported staff lead to stable, healing homes and that stability is what children need most.