Support Worker (Female (OR / EA2010)) - Driver - FTE/PTE- £13ph+

Go For It! (Respite and Social Care) Ltd (GFI) is a CQC‑registered specialist provider delivering person‑centred, community‑based support to children (from age 5), young people and adults with learning disabilities, autism, Asperger’s and related needs. We are seeking female Support Workers to work with female people we support who require gender‑appropriate, trauma‑informed care as part of individually assessed support packages. Support is delivered primarily within the community and people’s homes, enabling individuals to live fulfilling, safe and meaningful lives while promoting independence, dignity and inclusion.

Important Legal Information – Occupational Requirement

This post is open to female applicants only. Due to the specific needs of the people we support, including individuals who have experienced trauma and who require gender‑appropriate personal and emotional support, this role is subject to a genuine Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010. This requirement is applied lawfully, proportionately and solely to this role, in line with person‑centred planning, safeguarding considerations and NHS / Local Authority commissioning expectations.

Job Description (Job‑Specific Information)

The role involves supporting people to access everyday and meaningful activities, including but not limited to:

• Shopping, library visits, cinema and community activities
• Attendance at medical appointments (e.g. GP, hospital)
• Travel training and confidence‑building in the community
• Support in education or structured activity settings
• Planned trips and social opportunities

A key aspect of the role is the ability to remain calm, patient and emotionally regulated when a person becomes anxious, distressed or unsettled, recognising that this may at times present risks to themselves or others. Support is delivered one‑to‑one or in small groups (maximum six) and is tailored to individual needs, preferences and risk assessments.

Hours and Working Pattern

Flexible working from 12 hours per week up to 40+ hours. Shifts available Monday to Sunday, typically between 8am–10pm. Some evening, long‑day or occasional overnight support may be required. Shift types include:

• Short and long shifts
• Afternoons / evenings
• Weekdays and weekends

Hours can be combined to create a “long day”.

Driving Requirement

This role requires the applicant to meet the following criteria:

• Hold a full UK driving licence, clean for a minimum of one year
• Have access to their own vehicle with valid business insurance
• Be willing and able to travel locally to support people in their own homes and community settings

Reasonable mileage costs are reimbursed in line with organisational policy. Please note: possession of a full UK driving licence and access to a suitable vehicle for work purposes is essential for this role. Some roles do not require driving – please enquire.

Safeguarding and Pre‑Employment Checks

Before commencing employment, the following are required:

• Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
• Satisfactory references

Experience is desirable but not essential. Full induction, training and ongoing supervision are provided.

Purpose of the Post

To work as part of a team providing high‑quality, person‑centred care and support, enabling people we support to take part in daily activities, make choices and achieve positive outcomes in their lives.

Main Responsibilities

Responsibilities to the People We Support

• Treat all individuals with respect, dignity and equality
• Support people to access community activities and manage personal budgets
• Plan meaningful activities based on individual interests and strengths
• Promote independence, choice and control
• Support positive emotional regulation and wellbeing
• Provide personal and intimate care, hygiene and physical support as required
• Safeguard and promote the welfare of the people we support at all times

Responsibilities to GFI and Yourself

• Be personally accountable for the standard of your practice
• Complete daily records, activity diaries and required documentation
• Maintain confidentiality of written and verbal information
• Participate in training, supervision and annual appraisal
• Follow GFI policies, procedures and safeguarding practices
• Comply with Health and Safety requirements
• Report any safeguarding, wellbeing or risk concerns to a manager promptly

Main Duties

• Act as a named Support Worker for allocated individuals
• Safely support people from their home and ensure appropriate handovers
• Never leave a person unattended unless formally authorised
• Work one‑to‑one or in small groups, following care plans and family guidance
• Maintain accurate records, including behaviour and incident reports
• Work alongside families, carers, NHS and social care professionals
• Attend reviews and meetings where required
• Where authorised, drive the vehicles of people we support or your own vehicle (with verified business insurance)

Person Specification

Essential Skills and Abilities

• Respectful, caring and person‑centred approach
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to adapt approach to different people and situations
• Ability to remain calm and resilient under pressure
• Basic IT skills
• Ability to work required shifts, including weekends and bank holidays
• Ability to meet the assessed needs of the people we support
• Experience supporting people with learning disabilities and/or autism
• Outreach or community‑based support experience

Personal Characteristics

• Commitment to inclusion, dignity and human rights
• Belief in enabling people to make choices about their lives
• Creative, flexible and solution‑focused
• A sense of humour and warmth
• Willingness to learn and develop professionally

Flexible Working Options Available

• Flexitime
• Staggered hours
• Compressed hours
• Annualised hours
• Job share

How to Apply

To arrange an interview, please submit/upload your CV and include your availability (days and times). We welcome applications from individuals who share GFI’s values of Aspire, Care, Respect and Partnership.