At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults with learning disabilities in their homes and communities.
- Company: Join a dedicated team making a difference in social care.
- Benefits: Earn £16.38 per hour with flexible hours and community impact.
- Other info: Regulated role with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Must have relevant qualifications and a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 16.38 - 16.38 £ per hour.
Hours are offered on an as and when required basis.
£16.38 per hour (including Distant Islands Allowance).
You will be reporting to Senior Social Care Worker and Registered Manager.
The purpose of this role is to offer support to adults with learning disabilities who live in their own homes and with families/carers in the community.
We are looking for motivated and enthusiastic individuals who are able to work both on an individual basis and as a member of a team. You will adopt a person centred approach to deliver a high standard of flexible and responsive care to service users within the Supported Accommodation and Short Breaks. You will provide support and assistance to service users to maximise and maintain their independence, including support and assistance to help them access community facilities.
The necessary qualification, experience and skills required for this role are detailed in the ‘must have’ section of the attached job profile. These criteria are used for decisions on shortlisting and appointment of applicants.
This post is a regulated role with adults and requires Level 2 Disclosure with PVG scheme membership.
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 21 June 2026, with shortlisting taking place 22 June 2026 and interviews are scheduled for week commencing 28 June 2026.
For a discussion about the role, contact the Senior Social Care Worker on 01856 871431.
For information on applying and our recruitment process, click here for Information for Applicants. We would welcome your feedback on our recruitment process.
Relief Social Care Assistant, Short Breaks and Supported Living Network - ORK10477 in Kirkwall employer: Orkney Islands Council
As a Relief Social Care Assistant within our Short Breaks and Supported Living Network, you will join a supportive and inclusive work culture dedicated to enhancing the lives of adults with learning disabilities. We offer competitive pay, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development, ensuring that you can grow your skills while making a meaningful impact in the community. Located in a vibrant area, our team values collaboration and person-centred care, making it an excellent place for those passionate about social care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Relief Social Care Assistant, Short Breaks and Supported Living Network - ORK10477 in Kirkwall
✨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 Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands Council's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Relief Social Care Assistant, Short Breaks and Supported Living Network - ORK10477 in Kirkwall
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 Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands 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 Relief Social Care Assistant, Short Breaks and Supported Living Network - ORK10477 at Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands Council that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Relief Social Care Assistant, Short Breaks and Supported Living Network - ORK10477 role.
