At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults with learning disabilities through engaging farm activities and animal care.
- Company: Brandon Trust, a diverse and inclusive employer in Bristol.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, shopping discounts, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while caring for animals.
- Qualifications: Experience in animal care or a passion for supporting others is essential.
The predicted salary is between 24853 - 25166 £ per year.
Location: Elm Tree Farm & Grimsbury Farm, Bristol
Salary: £24,853 - £25,166 per annum
37.5 hours per week
Full-Time Permanent
Flexible working across a 7-day rolling rota and across our Bristol and South Gloucestershire sites.
This isn't a traditional animal care/horticultural role. You'll use your practical skills to support adults with learning disabilities and autism through meaningful farm-based activities. Help people thrive whilst caring for animals.
Do you have a passion for animal care and enjoy supporting people to learn new skills, build confidence and achieve their goals? We're looking for an Animal Care Support Worker to join our Animal Care team across Elm Tree Farm and Grimsbury Farm. This rewarding role combines practical animal husbandry with person-centred support, helping people with learning disabilities and autism take part in meaningful farm activities that promote wellbeing, independence and personal development.
Working as part of our Animal Care team, you'll support a range of livestock and smallholding activities whilst creating safe, engaging and enjoyable opportunities for the people we support. No two days are the same, and you'll play an important role in helping both animals and people thrive.
What you'll be doing:
- Supporting people with learning disabilities and autism to take part in animal care, farming and wellbeing activities.
- Encouraging choice, independence, confidence and participation in day-to-day farm life.
- Assisting with daily livestock care, feeding, cleaning, health checks and welfare routines.
- Supporting animal welfare standards and following agreed animal care procedures at all times.
- Helping maintain clean, safe and well-organised animal housing, equipment and workspaces.
- Recording information accurately and reporting any changes, concerns or incidents appropriately.
- Supporting visitors, customers and community activities to create positive experiences across the farms.
- Following health and safety procedures and helping maintain a safe environment for people, animals and colleagues.
- Working collaboratively with colleagues across the Animal Care and Enterprise teams.
- Participating in weekend, bank holiday and rota-based working to support animal welfare needs.
What we're looking for:
- You might already be working as a Support Worker, Animal Care Assistant, Farm Worker, Stable Hand, Animal Technician or in another animal care role.
- We also welcome applications from people with animal care experience who are passionate about supporting others.
- Has experience or a strong interest in animal care and welfare.
- Enjoys working outdoors in a practical, hands-on environment.
- Is passionate about supporting people to achieve meaningful outcomes.
- Has a positive, patient and encouraging approach.
- Understands the importance of safeguarding, health and safety and animal welfare.
- Is reliable, flexible and able to work as part of a team.
- Has good communication and record-keeping skills.
- Holds a Level 2 Animal Care qualification or equivalent experience (desirable).
- Has experience supporting people with learning disabilities and autism (desirable).
What we offer:
- DBS checks covered by us.
- Rotas planned in advance where possible.
- Access to Wagestream, so you can track your earnings and access pay early.
- Shopping discounts including Blue Light Card, EE perks and Costco membership.
- Recommend a Friend scheme.
- Wellbeing helplines and Health Cash Plan.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Ongoing training and development opportunities.
- A supportive team and a role where you can make a genuine difference.
Everyone is welcome:
At Brandon, we believe diversity makes us stronger. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. As a disability-inclusive employer, we are committed to creating an accessible recruitment process and workplace where everyone can thrive. We actively encourage applications from disabled people and those with lived experience of disability. If you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, we'll be happy to support you. We are proud to create opportunities where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to succeed.
This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and satisfactory pre-employment checks.
Animal Care - Support Worker in Bristol employer: Brandon Trust
Join our dedicated team in Adderbury, where we prioritise compassion and community in our work culture. As a Care Assistant, you'll enjoy competitive pay, ongoing training, and opportunities for personal growth while making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals with learning disabilities. Our supportive environment fosters collaboration and encourages you to thrive in your role, making it an excellent place to build a rewarding career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Animal Care - Support Worker in Bristol
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Brandon Trust often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Animal Care - Support Worker in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Brandon Trust does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Brandon Trust
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Brandon Trust will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Brandon Trust.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Brandon Trust.