At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults with disabilities in developing life skills and achieving personal goals.
- Company: Join a caring team at Kent County Council, dedicated to community support.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, training opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and a diverse, inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Empathy, patience, good communication, and teamwork skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 23400 - 28600 £ per year.
Have you ever considered a career in care? We are excited to offer a part-time opportunity within our Community Day Services team, supporting adults with learning and physical disabilities in East Kent. As a Support Worker, you will help individuals develop essential life skills, use, and be part of their local communities, and achieve their personal goals.
If you're looking for a role where you can make a real difference in people's lives, this could be the opportunity for you. Working in care is one of the most rewarding paths you can take—supporting others to live more independently, confidently, and happily.
To succeed in this role, you’ll need to bring:
- Empathy and compassion – understanding and caring about the needs of others
- Patience and resilience – supporting individuals at their own pace
- Good communication skills – listening, encouraging, and engaging effectively
- Reliability and responsibility – being dependable and trustworthy
- Teamwork – working collaboratively with colleagues and other professionals
You will work as part of a team both in our dedicated building spaces supporting with activities such as cooking, arts and crafts and boccia, and within the local community supporting trips to go fishing, swimming, sailing and bowling to name a few. You will deliver person-centred, outcome-focused support. Your role will involve:
- Supporting individuals to achieve personal goals and aspirations
- Promoting independence through tailored care plans
- Encouraging social inclusion and community participation
- Assisting with some intimate personal care and mobility needs, including manual handling
- Collaborating with colleagues across East Kent services as needed
If you are able to drive our service vehicles, this would be great though not essential.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you are passionate about helping others and eager to learn, we will support you every step of the way. You will receive:
- Completion of the Care Certificate
- Training in manual handling, medication, and other mandatory modules
- Ongoing development opportunities, including the chance to gain a Diploma Level 2 or 3 in Health and Social Care
This post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Application to the Disclosure and Barring Service. KCC is committed to building a workforce which reflects the diversity of the county's working residents, and aspires to create an inclusive workplace where everyone can be themselves at work.
Kent County Council also offers a range of benefits, including:
- Access to the Cycle to Work Scheme
- Support groups and networks to share knowledge and expertise
- Opportunities for career development and progression
- Excellent local government pension scheme
- Work that works for you and us - let's talk flexibility!
Support Worker - Shepway Community Day Service employer: Kent County Council
Kent County Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff. With opportunities for professional growth in the health and social care sector, employees can make a meaningful impact in the lives of adults with disabilities while enjoying the benefits of working in a community-focused environment on the beautiful Isle of Sheppey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Worker - Shepway Community Day Service
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like Kent County Council, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at Kent County Council. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through Kent County Council's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Support Worker - Shepway Community Day Service
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at Kent County Council. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at Kent County Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent County Council
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with Kent County Council.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a Support Worker - Shepway Community Day Service at Kent County Council.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show Kent County Council that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Support Worker - Shepway Community Day Service role.
