Learning Disability Support Workers Vacancies in England and Wales
Introduction
Learning Disability Support Workers carry out varied roles within the community supporting adults and children with learning disabilities. The Support Worker will support and encourage individuals to engage within their local communities.
It may be necessary to work shifts, which may include nights and weekends. Part-time and full-time opportunities are available.
It is imperative that Learning Disability Support workers pass a police check via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Clients in the sector often also request the following training of employees:
- Safeguarding of Vulnerable Adults (SOVA)
- Manual Handling
- Basic First Aid
- Health and Safety
- Food Hygiene
It may be is necessary to have an NVQ level 2 or 3, or to be working towards a relevant NVQ. For some roles it may be essential to have a particular qualification, such as an NVQ in Care and Promoting Independence level 3 or NVQ level 2 / LDQ (Learning Disability Qualification).
Job Overview
A Support Worker will work with individuals to encourage them to have as much of an independent life as possible. The Support Worker will provide support with domestic tasks, including but not limited to managing budgets, attending appointments, managing their household as well as support with medication. The Support Worker will also provide emotional and practical support to service users.
A Support Worker will engage with the service user at all times ensuring that they are consulted about all aspects of their daily life.
A Support Worker is responsible for:
- Ensuring the service user engages within their local community
- Providing support to ensure individuals can live as independently as possible
- Providing for the personal needs of the service user
- Liaising with family members and external agencies
- Relationship building with service users
- Planning routines which help service users achieve day-to-day activities
Skills
- Being friendly and supportive
- Being flexible and able to cope with stressful situations
- Commitment to providing care and support to children and adults with mental health issues
- Work well as part of a team
- Sensitive to people of different backgrounds and be able to communicate well.