Youth Development & Engagement Lead

Dwelling Places Homes LTD is a Residential Care Provider, guided by our values and the quality of our service. We provide a unique combination of personalised care, support, and housing solutions for Children and young people. We are looking for motivated, passionate, reliable, and friendly individuals to join our growing team to lead a residential children's home in South East London.

Dwelling Places Homes LTD is a long-standing, family-run organisation dedicated to providing quality person-centred care to children and young people in its homes. We value our employees, and we are committed to their Continued Professional Development. Become a part of the Dwelling Places Homes LTD Team and contribute to transforming the lives of children and young people by improving their prospects. Apply today to embark on a rewarding journey of impact and growth.

As Youth Development and Engagement Team Lead, you will:

• Supervise, coach, and lead a team of support staff in delivering high-quality, emotionally attuned care.
• Lead the planning and coordination of keywork sessions, independence skills training, and educational engagement.
• Design and deliver creative and practical life skills programmes that promote confidence, independence, and wellbeing.
• Oversee structured recreational, enrichment, and cultural activities for young people.
• Act as the emotional wellbeing and behaviour support lead in the home, ensuring trauma-informed, restorative practices are at the heart of daily care.
• Build strong partnerships with families, schools, therapists, and external agencies.
• Champion youth voice and participation across the home and within planning processes.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Leading keywork and independence planning systems
• Promoting emotional and social development through consistent routines, relational practice, and positive reinforcement
• Managing behavioural challenges with empathy, structure, and restorative approaches
• Planning and evaluating structured activities, life skills sessions, and educational engagement
• Supporting the creation of outcome-focused support plans
• Leading reflective practice sessions and supporting staff wellbeing and professional development
• Collaborating with external agencies and attending multi-agency meetings
• Ensuring safeguarding, Ofsted compliance, and high-quality pastoral support across the home

Essential Criteria:

• NVQ/QCF Level 3 (or equivalent) in Children and Young People Workforce or equivalent qualification or in progress.
• At least 2 years' experience supporting young people in residential, youth work, or education settings
• Experience delivering structured keywork, life skills, or educational support
• Strong knowledge of trauma-informed practice and youth development
• Excellent communication, organisation, and emotional intelligence
• Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to obtain)
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and occasional sleep-ins
• Commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of service delivery.
• Willing to travel to our homes across South London and the surrounding areas.

Desirable:

• Supervisory or mentoring experience in a care setting
• Relevant level 4 qualification or willingness to work towards one
• Full UK Driving Licence
• CPD in youth work, mental health, education support, or restorative practice

Job Types: Permanent.

• Smart casual dress.
• Company events.
• Free parking.
• Birthday voucher.
• Pension scheme.
• Career Development Scheme.
• £50 referral bonus.
• Entertainment benefits.
• Exclusive discounts.

Schedule:

• Weekday.
• Weekend.
• Evening.

Licence/Certification:

• Enhanced DBS.
• Full UK Driving license (preferred).

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required).

Work Location: In person.