Transforming
Lives
A unique approach to residential childcare which changes the lives of vulnerable children.
Careers at
Wilderness Way
Wilderness Way provides therapeutic residential care for children and young people who have experienced significant trauma. Our homes — set within the restorative landscapes of Cumbria — are built around nature, adventure, and relationship‑based care. We create safe, stable environments where young people can rebuild trust and realise their potential.
For those transitioning from the armed forces, our approach aligns closely with the values you know well: teamwork, resilience, structure, courage, and purpose.
Roles We Recruit For:
Residential Care Roles
- Residential Support Worker (RSW)
- Senior Residential Support Worker
- Registered Service Manager
Specialist & Support Roles
- Outdoor and adventure practitioners
- Educational and therapeutic support roles
- Central services: HR, training, recruitment, and operations
We actively welcome transferable military skills such as leadership, emotional resilience, communication, and problem‑solving.
Our Core Values
Compassion
We provide consistent, caring, emotionally available support.
Resilience
We help young people build strength through challenge and guidance.
Integrity
Honesty and accountability shape everything we do.
Potential
We believe in the capacity of every young person and every colleague.
Training, Development & Support
- Comprehensive induction and fully funded formal qualifications
- Trauma‑informed practice training
- Outdoor skills training and adventure-led learning
- Leadership pathways and management development
- Reflective practice and therapeutic team support
- 24/7 on‑call support
Your growth is just as important as the growth of the young people we support.
Company Benefits
- Competitive salary packages and progression
- Pension scheme
- Enhanced annual leave
- Fully funded training and qualifications
- Outdoor kit support
- Wellbeing support, EAP services & discounts
Work–Life Balance
Our rota patterns are designed for meaningful breaks and recovery time. Staff frequently highlight:
- Predictable shifts
- Extended downtime between working periods
- A supportive culture that prioritises wellbeing
What Our Staff Say
“After leaving the forces, I wanted a role with purpose. Wilderness Way gave me that — and more.” – RSW, former RAF
“The rota gives me real balance. When I’m off, I genuinely switch off — and living in Cumbria makes that even better.” – Registered Manager
“The training is outstanding. I’ve built an entirely new career with support all the way through.” – Senior RSW
“No two days are the same, but the support makes all the difference. You’re never left on your own.” – RSW
Living & Working in Cumbria
Cumbria offers a quality of life that many ex-forces families value:
Space, Nature & Adventure
The Lake District, forests, and dramatic coastlines offer year‑round opportunities for hiking, biking, climbing, paddling and wild spaces.
Community & Wellbeing
Friendly towns, strong local communities, shorter commutes, and a calmer lifestyle.
Ideal for Forces Leavers
A natural transition for those used to outdoor environments, structure, and meaningful
purpose.
Lower Cost of Living
Housing and living costs are significantly lower than major UK cities.
Interested in a Career with Wilderness Way?
If you’d like to learn more, we host short, informal online careers events where you can meet members of our operational teams and Talent Acquisition Advisors.
These sessions are relaxed, informative, and the perfect space to ask questions about the roles, training, and what to expect.
We’d love to speak to you and help you explore whether Wilderness Way could be your next purposeful step.