Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of young people? Do you believe every young person deserves a safe, supportive environment as they transition to independence? If so, we want to hear from you!

We are on the search for a dedicated and compassionate Residential Project Worker in our Leaving Care Service, Ballymena.

The Service supports semi-independent living for care experienced young people aged 16 -21yrs.  The service is jointly commissioned by Northern Health and Social Care Trust and Supporting People.

About the Role:

This is a vital role where you will help young people build confidence, develop essential life skills, and navigate the challenges of independent living.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide emotional and practical support tailored to individual needs. Promote independence through guidance on budgeting, cooking, employment, and education. Maintain a safe, nurturing, and respectful living environment. Work collaboratively with social workers, education providers, and health professionals. Advocate for young people's rights and wellbeing.

Barnardo's sets very high standards for the work we do with the children, young people and families we support.  We demonstrate every day through our work that we believe in children and we want people to work with us who share our belief, and are willing to strive for excellence in all aspects of their work.

We use a strength-based approach to build resilience and facilitate better outcomes for children and young people. Our practice is guided by attachment and trauma-based models of intervention.  

You will be provided with a suite of training to support you in undertaking your role within the project.  

Please ensure that you outline in your application how you meet the essential criteria detailed in the Additional Information Sheet.

Hours:  17 hours per week - rota basis including evening and weekend work

Salary: £26,142.40 - £29,755.44 FTE

Closing: Midnight Monday 26th January, 2026

Interviews: TBC

Contact details: recruitment.support@barnardos.org.uk

Successful applicants will be required to undertake an Enhanced Access NI with Child and Adult Barred List Check, and register with NISCC.

A waiting list will be held in the event that similar vacancies arise during the next 12 months