Working with children in childrens homes, where to begin?

[rosesformoi]

I'd really like to start working with children who are in care/childrens homes, but I have absolutely no idea where to begin! I know that it is part of the social care sector, but as somebody would absolutely no experience I have no idea which job titles to be searching for or even where to start to be honest.
Would anybody be able to advise me?

[x-jem-x]

Hi,

Without wishing to sound rude because that is not my intention at all it would be very hard for you to get a job in a children's home with no experience.

If I were you I would look into volunteering for the organisation 'homestart' basically you would visit families who are having difficulties and help the parents to cope. The experience you would gain from this would be looked upon favourably by employers in your desired field.

Hope that is of some help to you :o)

[rosesformoi]

So voluntary work is the way to go?

Okay thanks for that! I will start looking into finding some.

[jonesyonline]

You may find a job in a children's home without experience. Some residential homes take on staff and offer an extensive induction programme to give you a some of the skills and knowledge you will need to work with children i.e. child protection, child care law, managing behaviour.
Due to the nature of the work - it is very demanding - many care homes have a high turn over of staff and will have recruitment drives every few months.
I started working in a residential unit with no experience just by answering to an advert in local newspaper. Maybe try that or the job centre.
The work, like I said can be demanding both emotionally and physically but can also be very rewarding. I gave it up to become an NVQ assessor for the role but I do miss the work at times, I am lucky that I still work in the sector thought without the long hours. Good luck

[Ice.Maiden]

A very good person to ask, is pink. She should be on later. x

[jonesyonline]

You may find a job in a children's home without experience. Some residential homes take on staff and offer an extensive induction programme to give you some of the skills and knowledge you will need to work with children i.e. child protection, child care law, managing behaviour.
Due to the nature of the work - it is very demanding - many care homes have a high turn over of staff and will have recruitment drives every few months.
I started working in a residential unit with no experience just by answering to an advert in local newspaper. Maybe try that or the job centre. There is a publication called Community Care that sometimes has positions advertised.
Job titles will include - support worker, residential social worker. Don't be put off by having no formal experience, it is veyr often life experience and personallity.
The work, like I said can be demanding both emotionally and physically but can also be very rewarding. I gave it up to become an NVQ assessor for the role but I do miss the work at times, I am lucky that I still work in the sector though without the long hours. Good luck

[Buenchico]

This might help:
http://careersadvice.direct.gov.uk/helpwithyou rcareer/jobprofiles/profiles/profile633/

Chris

[pinktwink]

que from Ice!!!!
Well rosei guess it depends on where you live and wether you wish to work for a private or state agency. Firstly you will be required to undergo a CRB check or Garda clearance. Depending on your age you can look at what college course or return to education course suits you. Staff nowadays are required to have a qualification in childcare. However there are courses for mature students. Try your local community centre or adult education service.
It is a very rewarding yet challenging and hard work but worth it

[Ice.Maiden]

There you go, roses!