FAQs

A support worker plays a crucial role in helping individuals with learning disabilities, Autism, or other assessed needs to live as independently as possible. This role is both varied and rewarding, focusing on empowering people to lead fulfilling lives on their own terms.

Support work involves working with and alongside the person you support, rather than doing things for them. This approach fosters greater independence and confidence. Duties can vary significantly based on each individual’s specific needs and preferences, making the role both dynamic and personalised.

Support workers assist with a range of activities, including daily living tasks, personal care, and social engagement. They might help with meal preparation, medication management, mobility support, or participation in community activities. The goal is always to enhance the individual’s quality of life and support their personal growth while respecting their autonomy and choices.

• Lone Working: This involves support workers delivering care independently, typically in a client’s home or community setting, without immediate team support. This requires strong self-reliance, decision-making skills, and a focus on safety and risk management.
• Working Within a Service: This involves support workers being part of a team in a structured environment, such as a care facility or supported living service. This setup offers collaborative support, shared duties, and access to colleagues for guidance and assistance.

• Companionship and Activities: You’ll provide companionship to clients, engaging them in activities that promote socialisation and mental stimulation. This might include playing games, going for walks, or simply spending time together to enhance their quality of life.
• Medication Administration: You will administer medications to clients as prescribed by healthcare professionals, ensuring they receive the correct dosages at the right times.
• Health Monitoring: Regularly monitor and record clients’ vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate. You’ll be responsible for reporting any changes or concerns to the appropriate healthcare personnel to ensure prompt action is taken.
• Meal Preparation: Assist in preparing meals for clients, ensuring their dietary needs and preferences are met. This includes cooking nutritious meals and helping clients with eating if necessary.
• Mobility and Transfers: You will assist clients with mobility needs, including helping them move around their home or transferring from bed to a chair. This may involve heavy lifting or using mobility aids to ensure their safety and comfort.
• Personal Care: Some clients may require assistance with personal care tasks, such as bathing, dressing, or toileting. You’ll provide this support in a respectful and compassionate manner.

While previous experience in mental health and/or learning disabilities is preferred, it is not mandatory. We value candidates who are passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered care and who are eager to make a difference in the lives of others.

Knowledge of first aid and the ability to respond to emergencies is beneficial, as well as strong communication skills for interacting effectively with clients, their families, and healthcare professionals. You’ll need to be comfortable working independently and following care plans accurately. However, this position does not require a nursing degree. If you have a genuine desire to support and care for others, we encourage you to apply!

Yes, a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is required for this role. As a support worker, you will be working closely with vulnerable individuals, including those with mental health needs or learning disabilities. The DBS check is a mandatory part of the recruitment process to ensure the safety and well-being of the people we support.

The hours you will be required to work depend on whether you’re in a part-time or full-time role:

• Part-Time: You will work on weekdays and will be required to work one weekend day every other weekend.
• Full-Time: You will work on weekdays and both weekend days every other weekend.

Additionally, you will be required to do some sleep-ins as part of your role if applying for Supported Living Support Worker. Sleep-ins are overnight shifts where you will be on-site to provide support if needed and receive a fixed rate of £65 per sleep-in.

Yes, a full driving licence and access to your own car are required for this role. You must also have business insurance for your vehicle. This is necessary because you will need to transport clients to appointments, shopping, and various activities as part of your duties.

As a support worker, you will receive comprehensive training to ensure you are fully prepared for your role and compliant with industry standards. Also, if you do not already have one, you will be required to complete a Care Certificate. This certification covers essential aspects of care and ensures that you meet the foundation of care required for the role.

For some roles, you will need to complete additional in-person training for Medication Management and Manual Handling to ensure you are fully equipped to handle these specific responsibilities safely and effectively.

Yes, we are able to provide sponsorship for overseas applicants who require it to work in the UK. We are committed to supporting qualified candidates through the necessary visa and sponsorship processes. For more information on eligibility and sponsorship opportunities, please contact our team.