At a Glance
- Tasks: Respond to emergency calls and welfare checks for older adults in their homes.
- Company: BDS is dedicated to supporting vulnerable individuals in the Berkshire area.
- Benefits: Work from home, competitive pay, and enhanced rates for bank holidays.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while enjoying flexible weekend hours.
- Qualifications: Full driving license required; social care experience is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: Ideal candidates should live near Reading and be empathetic and reliable.
BDS have an exciting opportunity for a mobile responder to form part of a response service in the Berkshire area. The post holder will work from home and respond to emergency call outs and welfare checks to older adults in their own homes. The service supports clients who have had telecare equipment installed. The role holder will respond to calls that have been screened and triaged and an operator feels a physical response is required. All equipment needed for the role is provided.
There is no personal care involved. The role is to work weekends only, to be on call for 48 hours from 9am Saturday to 9am Monday. You will be an approachable and empathetic person who is flexible, committed and reliable. Experience in a social care or housing background would be an advantage though not essential for the right person.
A full driving license will be required. For an ideal logistical fit you will live closely to Reading.
The rate of pay is £55.00 per day on-call retainer plus £12.21 for three guaranteed hours (£91.63 per day) regardless if you work these hours or not. Any overtime is paid at £12.21 per hour and bank holidays are paid at enhanced rates.
Please apply with your CV in the first instance or contact Lou M to discuss further.
Community Responder employer: BDS (Northern) Limited
Contact Detail:
BDS (Northern) Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Responder
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the telecare equipment and services offered in the Berkshire area. Understanding how these systems work will not only boost your confidence but also show your commitment to the role during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your interpersonal skills when networking or during interviews. As a Community Responder, being approachable and empathetic is crucial, so share examples of how you've successfully interacted with others in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Make sure to emphasise your flexibility and reliability. Since this role requires weekend availability, be prepared to discuss your schedule and how you can commit to being on call during those hours.
✨Tip Number 4
If you live near Reading, mention this in your conversations. Being local can be a significant advantage for the role, as it ensures quicker response times and shows your dedication to serving the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Responder
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience in social care or housing, even if it's not extensive. Emphasise skills like empathy, reliability, and flexibility, which are crucial for the Community Responder role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that explains why you are interested in the position and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention your approachability and commitment to helping older adults, as these traits are essential for the role.
Highlight Availability: Clearly state your availability for the weekend shifts in your application. Since the role requires being on call from Saturday to Monday, it’s important to show that you can commit to this schedule.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your CV and cover letter. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date.
How to prepare for a job interview at BDS (Northern) Limited
✨Show Your Empathy
As a Community Responder, you'll be working with older adults who may need reassurance. During the interview, demonstrate your empathetic nature by sharing experiences where you've helped others in similar situations.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Even if you don't have direct experience in social care, think about any roles where you've had to respond to emergencies or support vulnerable individuals. Be ready to discuss these experiences and how they relate to the role.
✨Discuss Flexibility and Reliability
Since the role requires weekend availability and being on call, emphasise your flexibility and commitment. Share examples of how you've managed your time effectively in previous jobs or commitments.
✨Know the Area
Familiarise yourself with the Berkshire area, especially Reading. Being knowledgeable about the local community can show your commitment to the role and help you connect with the interviewers.