At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Carly in daily activities like cooking, cleaning, and social outings.
- Company: Optalis, a community-focused care provider backed by local councils.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, perks, generous leave, and comprehensive training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in someone's life while having fun together.
- Qualifications: Experience in care is a plus, but full training is provided.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours with potential for full-time opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 16 £ per hour.
Optalis is the Adult Social Care delivery partner on behalf of Wokingham Borough Council and the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead Council. Optalis is owned and funded by the two councils – it is not a private provider or an employment agency, and we do not offer sponsorship.
Part‑Time | Days from £12.34 per hour
About Me (Carly)
Hi, my name’s Carly – I’m a fun‑loving, young woman living independently in my own flat close to Wokingham railway station. I have a learning disability and am looking for a Support Worker who has good humour, is upbeat and likes to go out. I build good relationships with people who are firm but fair, keep boundaries and plan in advance what we are doing together.
Availability
- Monday – 10 am – 6.30 pm
- Wednesday – 12 pm – 6.30 pm
- Friday – 5 pm – 10 pm
- Sunday – 12 pm – 6.30 pm
Interests
- Swimming – especially if you can go in the pool with me
- Cinema – enjoy Disney and Marvel
- Shopping – JD Sports, Next, M&S, HMV
- Hollywood Bowl concerts
- Walking in parks around Wokingham
- Meals with friends at Nando’s, Toby Carvery, Zizzi’s
- Friday nights out at discos
What I’m Looking For
- Be firm, but fair and able to maintain boundaries
- Understanding of my routines and able to support me with activities
- Confident swimmer able to support me in the pool
- Respectful of my privacy and personal space
- Able to anticipate my needs while encouraging my independence
- Willing to learn about my specific needs and condition
- Positive, kind, and committed
- Able to support me on the train for days out
Role Responsibilities
As a Support Worker, your role will be to support me in my day‑to‑day life with tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and shopping. You will also provide personal care support (prompting, washing hair, personal tasks) and assist with socialising, including appointments, events and outings.
Experience & Training
Experience in the care sector would be beneficial but is not necessary as we provide full training. This includes classroom‑based learning for practical skills, online sessions for theory and awareness, and shadowing experienced staff to learn how we do things.
Working Hours
This is a part‑time role for an average of 21.5 hours per week across 2 weeks. For candidates looking for full‑time, additional hours may be available from our Independent and Community Living Services.
Benefits
- Perkbox – rewards package offering discounts on cinema, shopping, health, travel and insurance
- 25 days annual leave increasing annually to a maximum of 30 days (pro rata), plus 8 bank holidays
- One extra day off for your birthday
- Health and wellbeing support, including an additional wellbeing day
- Comprehensive paid training and development programme
- Excellent career progression opportunities and support
- Generous pension scheme
Closing & Conditions
We anticipate this will be a popular role and reserve the right to close applications early. Optalis is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our staff and customers. All successful applicants will be required to undertake a DBS check and will need to provide proof of their right to work in the UK. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 – the DBS clearance level required is Enhanced with Adult Barred list. For advice and information on disclosing criminal records, you can contact Nacro’s support service on 03001231999 or helpline@nacro.org.uk.
Support Worker - WorkWithCarly employer: Optalis
Contact Detail:
Optalis Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Worker - WorkWithCarly
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Carly's interests and routines before your interview. This will help you connect with her and show that you're genuinely interested in being a supportive presence in her life.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your swimming skills if you're not confident in the pool. Being able to support Carly during swimming sessions is key, so brush up on those strokes!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share examples of how you've maintained boundaries in past roles. Carly appreciates a firm but fair approach, so think of situations where you've successfully balanced support and independence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t hesitate to let us know why you’d be a great fit for Carly.
We think you need these skills to ace Support Worker - WorkWithCarly
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your sense of humour and enthusiasm for the role.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to read Carly's profile and the job description carefully. Highlight your relevant experiences and skills that match what Carly is looking for, like being firm but fair or having a knack for planning fun outings.
Show Your Passion: Express why you’re excited about supporting someone like Carly. Whether it’s your love for swimming or enjoying a good cinema trip, let us know what makes you a great fit for this role!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Optalis
✨Know Carly's Interests
Before the interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Carly's interests. Mentioning activities like swimming, cinema outings, or shopping at her favourite stores can show that you're genuinely interested in building a rapport and understanding her needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of Boundaries
Carly is looking for someone who is firm but fair. Be prepared to discuss how you would maintain boundaries while still being supportive. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully balanced support with independence.
✨Show Your Sense of Humour
Since Carly appreciates good humour, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. A light-hearted approach can help create a positive atmosphere during the interview, making it easier for both you and Carly to connect.
✨Highlight Your Willingness to Learn
Even if you don't have prior experience in care, emphasise your eagerness to learn about Carly's specific needs and conditions. Discuss how you plan to engage with the training provided and adapt your approach based on what you learn.