At a Glance
- Tasks: Support residents and ensure their safety and wellbeing in a caring environment.
- Company: Join MHA, a supportive organisation dedicated to improving lives.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, 28 days holiday, pension scheme, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available; perfect for students looking for meaningful work.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of older people while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Interest in supporting older people and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 13.79 - 13.79 £ per hour.
Duty Officer (Relief) based at Woodlands, Penrith
To cover the following shifts as and when required, Sunday to Saturday: 8am - 3pm; 3pm - 10pm; 10pm - 8am
Applicants must be flexible and be prepared to work any given day of the week on any shift as listed above to accommodate staff cover.
Salary
- £13.79 per hour
- For this role, we are currently considering candidates who live within approximately
15 miles of the Scheme .
This ensures commutes are manageable and support your wellbeing and work-life balance.
If you live outside this area but would still find the commute manageable, please get in touch - we are happy to review individual circumstances.
About the role
We are looking for a calm, caring and reliable Duty Officer to join our team at MHA.
This is a key role within our housing scheme, helping to ensure residents feel safe, supported and able to live independently, day and night.
As a Duty Officer, you will support the Housing Manager in the day-to-day running of the scheme, provide a reassuring point of contact for residents and respond appropriately to emergencies.
You will play an important part in promoting wellbeing, safety and community life, while respecting residents’ dignity, privacy and choices.
What you will do
- Support the Housing Manager with the day-to-day running of the scheme, ensuring high standards are maintained.
- Provide emergency assistance 24 hours a day, responding in person and contacting external services where required.
- Welcome new residents and support them to settle into the community.
- Respond to resident and building emergencies in a calm, professional and reassuring manner.
- Provide a front-of-house service, welcoming visitors to the scheme.
- Support and facilitate social and group activities to enhance residents’ wellbeing and reduce isolation.
- Carry out wellbeing assessments and regular check-ins with residents who require additional support.
- Complete daily calls or visits to residents as required, accurately recording and sharing any concerns.
- Promote the safe use of facilities and support residents to access local services and community resources.
- Work to a rolling rota, which may include nights and weekends.
About you
We are looking for someone who is approachable, organised and able to remain calm under pressure.
You will bring
- A genuine interest in supporting older people and improving quality of life.
- Strong organisational skills, including record keeping and report writing.
- Good written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- The ability to work well as part of a team and use your own initiative.
- An understanding of the impact of loneliness and isolation on wellbeing.
- A flexible approach to work, including working a rota pattern.
- Experience working with older people or in a housing or support setting is desirable, and training will be provided.
You will be joining an organisation with strong values and a commitment to helping people live later life well.
At MHA, housing and community-based roles play a vital part in supporting independence, safety and wellbeing.
Rewards and benefits
In addition to a competitive salary, you will enjoy
- 28 days holiday (including bank holidays) and an option to buy annual leave (pro-rota for part time)
- A strong pension scheme and life assurance
- Free DBS checks and uniforms
- Confidential counselling, chaplaincy support and access to our hardship fund
- Flexible options to buy or sell annual leave, plus family-friendly policies
- Discounts through the Blue Light Card, Health Service Discounts and the Vivup app
- A full induction, ongoing training and development opportunities
- Long service awards to celebrate your contribution
Where the role requires a Standard or Enhanced DBS check, the successful candidate will be required to join and maintain membership of the DBS Update Service.
MHA will pay for the DBS check and will provide an additional payment through payroll equivalent to the standard annual Update Service subscription fee.
Further details will be provided during onboarding.
Please note that interviews may take place prior to the closing date and if a suitable candidate is appointed the role may close early.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
MHA are fully committed to the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) as this is embedded in our values: respect, nurture and inspire.
In addition, as a committed employer we have been awarded level 2 under the Disability Confident Scheme.
Duty Officer (Relief) based at Woodlands, Penrith employer: Methodist Homes MHA
Methodist Homes MHA is an exceptional employer that values its employees by offering a supportive work culture and flexible hybrid working arrangements. With a strong focus on professional development, team collaboration, and meaningful contributions to the community, employees can expect ample opportunities for growth while making a positive impact in the Northern regions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Duty Officer (Relief) based at Woodlands, Penrith
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Methodist Homes MHA, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Duty Officer (Relief) based at Woodlands, Penrith
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Methodist Homes MHA. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Methodist Homes MHA. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Methodist Homes MHA
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Methodist Homes MHA.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Duty Officer (Relief) based at Woodlands, Penrith role at Methodist Homes MHA, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Methodist Homes MHA that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
