Specialist Support Worker

Specialist Support Worker

To provide person-centred, trauma-informed support to a young adult with a complex history of mental health needs, safeguarding risks, and vulnerability to exploitation. The role involves delivering consistent and compassionate care that promotes safety, emotional wellbeing, and independent living skills in line with clients care and support plan and Mental Health Act Section 117 aftercare requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 24/7 in-house support and 1:1 or 2:1 community support, as directed by the care plan.
• Supervise community access within agreed timeframes and parameters, ensuring clients safety, especially around known risks (e.g., substance misuse, sexual exploitation, and inappropriate associations).
• Support clients to safely manage personal care, maintain hygiene, and make appropriate choices regarding clothing and presentation.

Mental Health Monitoring & Medication Support

• Observe and report changes in mood, behaviour, or signs of psychosis (e.g., hallucinations, paranoia).
• Monitor medication adherence (Olanzapine, Promethazine, Lamotrigine, etc.) and side effects in line with clinical advice.
• Maintain accurate medication records and report concerns promptly to the care team.

Promoting Independence

• Assist client with budgeting, meal planning, and healthy nutrition, reducing over-reliance on takeaways.
• Help manage and maintain her living environment, supporting daily chores such as laundry and room tidiness.
• Encourage client participation in college, music programmes, and other purposeful activities.

Safeguarding & Risk Management

• Apply trauma-informed and PBS (Positive Behaviour Support) principles to de-escalate challenging behaviour.
• Adhere to Court of Protection directives, community DOLS restrictions, and safeguarding protocols at all times.
• Participate in emergency planning (e.g., AWOL protocol, use of restraint only as a last resort).

Relationship Building & Advocacy

• Build therapeutic rapport with client based on consistency, empathy, and respect.
• Facilitate safe family contact (e.g., overnight stays with mother/father) and escort as required.
• Work closely with client professional network including mental health teams, personal advisors, and social workers.

Person Specification

• Experience supporting individuals with mental health conditions, trauma, and/or risk of exploitation.
• Knowledge of Section 117 MHA Aftercare, Community DOLS, and safeguarding in supported living.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Emotional resilience and ability to manage challenging behaviours compassionately.
• Enhanced DBS check (adults) and eligibility to work in the UK.

Additional Information

- This role may require evening/weekend work, sleep-ins, and lone working where appropriate. - Training and ongoing supervision will be provided. - Regular reviews and care plan updates will inform practice adjustments.

Company Benefits & Rate

- £14 per hour -£15 per hour (based on experience and rota) - Qualification opportunities, specialised training courses - Employee of the month scheme - Opportunities to learn new skill set is commitment. - Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent - Expected hours: 37.5 per week

How to apply

If you are passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a forward-thinking team, we’d love to hear from you! Send your CV to [contact hidden] or upload on the section below For more information, call us on [contact hidden] or [contact hidden]