Spencer Clarke Group is one of the UK’s leading children’s residential home recruitment agencies. We work alongside small local providers and large national organisations of residential and educational care to offer temporary, interim and permanent job opportunities.
We understand that working in children’s residential care is more than just a job; it’s about making a lasting difference to the lives of young people. That’s why we take the time to get to know you, your experience, values and career ambitions - so we can match you with roles that truly suit you, not just on paper, but in practice.
How we support public sector professionals
Competitive daily rates of pay
Career advice, guidance and salary benchmarking
Exclusive access to children's residential home jobs which you won’t find online
Dedicated public sector consultant to facilitate your career progression
Straightforward registration and compliance process
We represent you to children's residential homes and negotiate fairly on your behalf
Ongoing support during your placement
Fast, reliable payroll
Areas of expertise
Emotional and behavioural difficulties (EBD)
Social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH)
Learning and physical disabilities
Autism and ADHD services
Substance abuse
Typical jobs we recruit for
Registered Children’s Home Managers
Deputy Managers
Head of Children's Care
Children’s Residential Support Workers
Children’s Residential Team Leaders
Operations Managers
Clinical Psychologists
Childcare Practitioners
CAMHS Practitioner (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services)
Senior and executive level appointments
Meet the team
Sophie Payne
Managing Consultant
Public and private sector recruitment specialist for Health & social care
I understand the importance of finding compassionate, resilient and experienced professionals who can provide safe, consistent care and make a meaningful difference to the lives of vulnerable children and young people.
After studying health and social care at college and discovering my love for helping others, a career in health & social care recruitment seemed like a no-brainer. I’m also a passionate fitness instructor which is a great way to unwind after a busy day recruiting.
Leasha Cookson
Recruitment Consultant
Public and private sector recruitment specialist for Health & social care
Recruiting within health and social care for the private and public sector is very gratifying. I witness the incredible work of Support Workers, Contact Supervisors and many other wonderful professionals daily.
I have recruited within healthcare for a number of years and my love for it is as strong as day one. It’s such a rewarding sector and after spreading my wings into social care, I couldn’t feel more fulfilled in my career.
FAQs
Once you’re registered and onboarded with Spencer Clarke Group, you will have full access to all children's residential home jobs which are sent out on a weekly basis. The application process is then fairly straightforward, usually consisting of a 1 or 2 stage interview process.
Absolutely not. You will always have full control of where your CV is sent. We will present job opportunities to you and you can advise if you would like your CV to be submitted.
We pride ourselves on working very quickly; on average it takes us between 1 - 3 days to place an experienced contractor.
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to contract lengths but you can typically expect a contract to last between 6-12 months. However, contracts can last for years depending on the needs of the children's home which you are working for.
Working the interim market can be daunting if you’re not sure what to expect. It’s important to note that contracts are regularly extended. As we work with many children's homes, there are always other job opportunities available. As your contract is nearing the end, we will proactively work with you to line up your next placement.
No, we do not provide sponsorship – you must be eligible to work in the UK full time.
Testimonials
Residential Support Worker
"My experience with Spencer Clarke Group has been excellent from start to finish. From the first conversation with my consultant, I felt genuinely supported.
She took the time to understand my experience, what kind of environment I wanted to work in, and my long-term career goals. I was within a post in just 6 days which was incredible. I can't thank you enough!"
My experience with Spencer Clarke Group has been excellent from start to finish. From the first conversation with my consultant, I felt genuinely supported.
Children’s Residential Team Leader
"Professional, honest and incredibly supportive throughout the whole process! I felt like my consultant really believed in me which gave me a lot of confidence.
Even after starting my new job, she stayed in touch and made sure I was settling in well. It’s clear they genuinely care about both their candidates and the homes. I wouldn’t hesitate to use them again in the future."
Even after starting my new job, she stayed in touch and made sure I was settling in well. It’s clear they genuinely care about both their candidates and the homes.
Registered Manager
"I’ve been in this sector for a number of years and during that time, I’ve dealt with many recruitment agencies.
In my experience, Spencer Clarke Group was head and shoulders above the others because they took the time to really understand me, rather than trying to shoehorn me into any old job.
They gave me a clear picture of the role and the home, which meant I could make an informed decision.
The level of detail and support they provided throughout the process was exceptional, from initial discussions through to the offer stage. I’m now in a position that feels like the right long-term move and I’m extremely grateful for their support."
The level of detail and support they provided throughout the process was exceptional, from initial discussions through to the offer stage.
Residential Care Assistant
"I was looking to transition into children’s residential care from a different background and I wasn’t sure where to start. Spencer Clarke Group were incredibly supportive and encouraging throughout the process.
They took the time to understand my transferable skills and helped me position myself in the best possible way for employers.
Their advice and guidance gave me the confidence I needed to succeed in the interview. I’m now in my dream job and I feel incredibly lucky. Thank you so much!"
I would like Spencer Clarke Group to contact me regarding their recruitment services.
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