Disability Sensory Support Worker in Lisburn

Disability Action is a dynamic and thriving charity committed to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities across Northern Ireland. We provide a wide range of services and support to empower people with disabilities, in employment, education, advocacy and more, ensuring they can live independently and participate fully in society.

The post holder will provide direct one-to-one and group-based effective and timely sensory based disability support to meet the needs of participants on Skills for Life and Work and/or Apprenticeships NI related training provision. They will work to a planned weekly calendar of activities to meet the needs of participants to achieve their training and learning goals and planned qualifications and outcomes.

• Provide direct one to one and group-based sensory based disability support to an agreed schedule of activities, location(s), timings, outputs and quality and completeness measures, allocated by the Disability Support Co-ordinator, in a designated geographical area.
• Carry out planned sensory based disability support activities on site to meet the needs of participants, accurately recording daily activities, outputs and outcomes and obtaining appropriate signatures of work completed to the required standard on relevant paperwork and then submit to the Disability Support Co-ordinator by agreed timescales.
• Collaborate with the Disability Support Co-ordinator and Disability Support Manager and wider DA teams, to effectively monitor and review service delivery to meet contractual and organisational financial, KPIs and quality measures and quality improvement planning throughout the contract duration.
• Establish and maintain accurate and timely records that supports effective ongoing monitoring and review of own support provided and raise any immediate issues or concerns with the Disability Support Co-ordinator for appropriate follow up.
• Develop and maintain close working relationships with key external staff, such as other Disability Support Service Contractors, Training Providers and Careers Service to ensure that DA support is responsive to emerging requirements.
• To adhere to agreed corporate quality standards and best practice.
• To undertake any other duties as may be required from time to time by Disability Action in line with the status of the post.

The successful candidate will have experience supporting individuals with sensory impairments (including visual and hearing impairments) in education, training or employability settings, with the ability to adapt information and environments to promote accessibility, independence and inclusion using appropriate assistive technologies and communication methods. A qualification in British Sign Language (BSL) and/or Irish Sign Language (ISL) is required, with experience supporting BSL/ISL users desirable. They will work professionally and independently to agreed schedules, collaborating effectively with colleagues and external partners to deliver high-quality sensory support, while demonstrating an understanding of Deaf culture, identity and inclusive communication practices.

• Experience providing practical and communication support to individuals with sensory impairments, including visual and hearing impairments.
• A Qualification in British Sign Language (BSL) and/or Irish Sign Language (ISL) experience of supporting people who use BSL/ISL is preferred.
• Level 3 qualification and/or have at least two years-experience (with at least one year being in the last two years), in a related sensory support role in employability, training, teaching, or learning support.
• Knowledge of directly supporting people with disabilities, particularly with sensory impairments, within an employment, education, or employment & training setting.
• The ability to work with a wide cross-section of participants with varying levels of sensory support needs.
• A professional approach and ability to work independently, to analyse and provide creative solutions to problems and a commitment to team working and collaboration.
• The ability to demonstrate excellent written & oral communication skills including the ability work with people with disabilities and other relevant stakeholders, whilst exhibiting sensitively in difficult circumstances with empathy, compassion and understanding.

• A relevant third level qualification or a recognised accredited qualification in a relevant area such as Supported Employment, Teaching, Training, Mentoring, Coaching or Careers Guidance.
• Knowledge of Government programmes to assist young disabled people into employment, further education or training.
• Knowledge of social security benefits and tax credits in relation to disabled people.
• Knowledge of the Disability Discrimination Act and other relevant employment and equality legislation.

• Enhanced Maternity packages
• Hybrid Working
• Death in Service package
• Cash plan
• In house Counselling services
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being
• 27 days paid holidays per year and 11 bank holidays (Based on a full-time role)
• Opportunities for growth in business development, project implementation, training and development and personal development plans

Disability Action is an equal opportunities employer committed to providing opportunities for all. We offer salary packages that are reflective of experience and aligned with industry standards, alongside a supportive environment that encourages professional growth. As a progressive charity, we provide our employees with opportunities to develop their skills and gain experience across a wide range of areas in a secure and thriving workplace. We are a Responsible Body for Access NI. A disclosure check will be undertaken; however, a criminal record will not necessarily be a bar to obtaining this role.