Support Worker

Duties and Responsibilities May Include

• The post holder will be expected to assume a level of responsibility designated by the home manager
• To develop a full knowledge and understanding of administrative procedures pertaining to the service users.
• Ensure that satisfactory recordings are made in relation to all service users, for example, daily recordings, monthly reports, review and care plans.
• To be aware of the Care Quality Commission, its role and the essential outcomes and regulations.

Service Users:

• To undertake the role of key-worker for specific service users as directed by the homes manager
• To participate in assessing and planning to meet the individuals needs with support from the homes manager / team leader.
• To participate in review meetings with the care manager and families to effectively plan for a positive future and develop a realistic Support Plan.
• Assist the service users with their individual Support plans and help them to achieve their goals.
• Participate in providing day care activities for the service users.
• Undertake a training and educational role with the service users on a group or individual basis as part of their on going program of Support and development.
• Provide a high level of dignity, respect and value to the service users in all areas of contact.
• Provide respect for their personal wishes, choices, space and possessions and have due regard to the level of disability of all service users and respect their individuality.
• In line with our policy of developing community awareness, you will be expected to show a level of commitment and initiative and forge links with community facilities to enable the respective client group to develop their potential in all areas.
• Identify any service users need to see GP’s, dentists, chiropodists etc. Ensuring they are accompanied on these appointments if they wish.
• Assist service users in their personal care when appropriate.
• Administer medication where appropriate, in line with the company’s policy on medication.
• Support Service Users to and undertake tasks of a domestic nature, eg purchasing food, cooking, laundry, house cleaning etc.
• Maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Report all accidents/incidents or their health hazards in line with the company policy.
• Develop and maintain professional relationships with service users relatives, outside agencies and other professionals.
• The post holder will be expected to drive/escort service users as appropriate.

General:

• To participate in regular supervision sessions and individual personal reviews with your homes manager/team leader, and attend regular staff meetings.
• The post holder will be required to attend in service training programs.
• To be aware of and work within the company’s policies and procedures, including the regulations of Health and Safety at Work Act.

Person Specification:

Skills & Knowlege

Essential

• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Must have appropriate life skills, and carry out a range of personal care tasks as stated in personal service users plans.
• Experience of team working.
• Knowledge and experience of the need for dignity, respect and sensitivity when dealing with people with a disability.

Desirable

• Experience of working with adults with a Learning disability / mental illness.
• Knowledge of Community Care and Care Quality Commission. And other relevant policies and Procedures relating to Moving & Handling, Health & Safety and Risk Assessments.

Experience & Qualifications

Essential

• Willingness to undertake appropriate and regular training as required and in accordance with CQC and Skills for Care Outcomes and our own training plan.

Desirable

• Face to face working with people with a learning disability and / or mental health concerns.
• Dealing with challenging situations & behaviours.
• Experience in residential care or supported living.
• NVQ / Diploma level 2 in Care

Other Relevant Requirements

Essential

• Ability to enable, promote and maintain Service Users Independence.
• Ability to motivate and encourage service users.
• Ability to observe and note aspects of the health and wellbeing of the service users.
• Present the ability to undertake personal care tasks in our residential & supported living homes in accordance with manual handling policies and procedures.

Desirable

• Have awareness of discrimination and the ability to work in an anti-discriminatory manner, understanding our equal opportunities policy.
• Display the ability to manage your own time to ensure all tasks are completed accurately and efficiently.