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Communicator/Guide (Support Worker/Personal Assistant)

To act as eyes and ears for visually and hearing impaired lady.

Based in OLD SWAN

1. To guide and relay information, relaying what is seen and heard. This includes spoken, non-verbal, written and environmental information.

2. Serve as a guide, escorting her outside the home (on foot, by car or public transport) to the destination of her choice.

3. Ensuring all required information is delivered using clear speech. Make notes of meetings and telephone conversations and relay other information that is provided.

4. Attend necessary appointments and meetings.

5. Attend service-specific training, support and supervision if necessary.

6. When requested and appropriate, make phone calls, assist with writing letters/emails, and complete forms.

7. Assist with housework, shopping, social and leisure activities(including going to the gym and swimming pool ) .

8. Assist with all aspects of daily living tasks as required.

9. Respect and maintain privacy and confidentiality.

Knowledge of hearing and sight loss preferred but not essential

Must have clear fluent spoken English

Must be female due to personal nature of duties (not personal care )

Must be able to drive their own car with business insurance

Sense of humour

I am a lady with Usher Syndrome. Being registered both visual and hearing impaired, I consider myself to be an independent, active, and organised individual.

I enjoyed a varied working career until my disabilities became too restrictive. I wear both a hearing aid and cochlear implant. I rely on my Communicator/Guide to relay information and help me communicate. Extremely clear speech is essential. My main sight problems are tunnel vision and little definition. I don't allow it to stop me from running my own home or participating in various activities.

I have a fun and mischievous personality, like to keep busy and make good use of my PC and Tablet. My Communicator/Guide will use their own car to assist me to attend appointments at local hospitals, GP, dentist, etc. They will assist me to complete paperwork, ensure all areas are free from trip hazards, make and take telephone calls on my instruction, read letters, go for odd day/evenings out, and various other duties as required. I am open to trying new things and new experiences.

A FEMALE Support Worker/Communicator Guide is essential as assistance with trying on new clothes/underwear, taking into public toilets, etc is part of the role.

Non-Smoker please.

Being human, I have days when my energy levels are low or I don't feel at my best and rely on my Communicator/Guide to support me through the day with compassion, and understanding.

Training (including e-learning) will be provided where/if necessary to build on your current knowledge and skills.

Shift Pattern: 7 hours 9.30am to 4.30pm Occasional evenings, and cover for when other staff on leave