Support worker for learning disabilities

Job Summary

As a Supported Living Support Worker, you will provide person-centred care and support to individuals with learning disabilities in a supported living environment. Your role will involve assisting individuals with daily living activities, promoting independence, and ensuring that their physical, emotional, social, and mental wellbeing needs are met. You will work collaboratively with the individual, their families, and a multidisciplinary team to deliver high-quality care that enables them to lead fulfilling lives while promoting their dignity and rights.

Key Responsibilities

• Personal Care and Support

  • Provide assistance with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting, while maintaining privacy and dignity.
  • Assist with medication management, ensuring individuals receive their prescribed medication in line with care plans and legal requirements.
  • Support individuals with mobility needs, including using equipment such as hoists or mobility aids, and ensuring safe manual handling procedures are followed.

• Promoting Independence

  • Encourage and support individuals in developing life skills, such as cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and personal hygiene, to help them live as independently as possible.
  • Help individuals make decisions and choices about their daily activities, respecting their rights and preferences.
  • Support individuals to access social and community activities, promoting engagement and inclusion in society.

• Behavior Support

  • Use positive behavior support techniques to manage and de-escalate challenging behaviors, ensuring safety for the individual and others.
  • Work with the individual and the team to implement individualized behavior support plans and strategies.
  • Maintain records of any incidents and monitor progress in behavior management.

• Health and Wellbeing

  • Monitor and support individuals with their health needs, including attending medical appointments, following up on care plans, and providing emotional support.
  • Assist individuals in managing any long-term health conditions or disabilities.
  • Promote healthy lifestyles, including supporting exercise, nutrition, and mental wellbeing.

• Communication and Relationships

  • Build strong, trusting relationships with individuals, ensuring they feel safe and respected in their environment.
  • Work closely with family members, carers, and other professionals to ensure a holistic approach to care.
  • Use clear and appropriate communication methods, including verbal, written, and alternative communication systems (e.g., sign language or communication aids), depending on the needs of the individual.

• Care Planning and Documentation

  • Support in the development and review of care plans, ensuring they reflect the individual's needs, preferences, and goals.
  • Accurately complete daily records, care notes, and reports to document care provided, incidents, and any changes in the individual's condition.
  • Participate in regular reviews of care plans with the individual, their family, and other professionals to ensure the care provided is effective and up-to-date.

• Safeguarding and Compliance

  • Ensure the safety and wellbeing of individuals by following safeguarding protocols and reporting any concerns of abuse, neglect, or harm.
  • Adhere to all relevant policies, procedures, and legal requirements, including the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS).
  • Maintain a safe and clean environment in the supported living setting, adhering to health and safety regulations.

Skills and Qualifications

• Experience: Previous experience in care or support work, preferably within a learning disabilities or health and social care setting, is desirable but not essential.

• Qualifications:

  • Level 2 or 3 in Health and Social Care (or equivalent) is preferred.
  • Training in Safeguarding, First Aid, and Manual Handling is beneficial.
  • Training or willingness to undertake training in Positive Behaviour Support, Mental Health First Aid, and Learning Disabilities.

• Skills:

  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to work well in a team and independently.
  • A non-judgmental, compassionate, and empathetic approach to care.
  • Ability to manage challenging behaviors and promote positive outcomes.
  • Organizational skills and attention to detail in record-keeping.

Personal Qualities

• Patience and understanding of the needs of individuals with learning disabilities.
• Respect for the individuality, dignity, and rights of the person supported.
• Flexibility to work different shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Commitment to continuing professional development and learning.
• Empathy and a genuine desire to improve the lives of people with learning disabilities.

Working Environment

As a Supported Living Support Worker, you will work within a community setting, supporting individuals in their own homes. You may be required to work across different locations, and you will be part of a supportive and collaborative team working together to provide the highest standard of care.

Additional Information

• The role may require some physical work, including lifting, bending, and assisting with mobility.
• A full, clean driving license may be preferred, depending on the role and setting.
• DBS Check: An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required for this role.