At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with disabilities in daily living tasks and help them achieve their goals.
- Company: Join a caring team at Percy Hedley, dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy 20 days annual leave, wellbeing support, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Part-time and full-time roles available, with training and progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in people's lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Enthusiastic, flexible, and organised individuals with a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Please note we do not offer sponsorship; applicants must have the right to work in the UK. We are looking to appoint Independent Living Support Workers to join the team at Ferndene and provide excellent support. Ferndene comprises of 9 self-contained bungalows, with staff facilities, gardens and car parking. The people at Ferndene require assistance throughout the day to enable them to lead fulfilling lives.
Our Independent Supported Living schemes are home for individuals with learning disabilities and/or physical disabilities who require support with everyday living tasks, cooking, cleaning, organising social activities, support to health appointments and to live as independently as possible. You will need to be enthusiastic, with a positive outlook on life and a real desire to help people achieve their goals and reach their full potential. A great team player, who is flexible, organised and has the skills to work with a multi-disciplinary team to ensure the people we support receive the highest level of care is required. Being able to adapt and respond to evolving situations with a person-centred approach is essential for an independent living scheme.
As this is a 24/7 service, part and full time hours are available but you must be open to working both days and nights.
Why Work for Us:
- At Percy Hedley we encourage career development and progression.
- We run a robust training programme and also have development opportunities across the wider Foundation.
- 20 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (pro-rated for part-time staff).
- Loyalty awards starting at 2 years’ service.
- Wellbeing support (including occupational health, physio services and counselling services).
- Contributory Pension Scheme.
- Induction and ongoing training.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Access to a rewards scheme designed to save money on shopping.
- Access to Blue Light Card.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Access to discounted Nexus Travel Corporate Pop Card (payments spread over 12 months and deducted from salary each month).
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore applicants should be aware that the post will only be offered to successful candidates subject to an Enhanced DBS and barring checks as well as other employment clearances such as referencing in line with our regulator’s legislation requirements.
Please note that this role is classed as regulated activity as it involves working directly with children and/or vulnerable adults. All shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a criminal records self-declaration form prior to interview, and all candidates will be subject to an online check prior to interview.
Please note it is an offence to apply for this role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children and the Percy Hedley Foundation has the right to respond appropriately. As a disability confident employer who is registered and accredited by the scheme, we would encourage all applications but please reach out if you require any guidance or support in your application.
This recruitment is ongoing therefore the vacancy will close when a suitable number of applicants have been appointed.
Independent Living Support Worker (female only) employer: Percy Hedley Foundation
The Percy Hedley Foundation is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment in Newcastle upon Tyne. With a strong emphasis on employee growth through comprehensive training programmes and generous holiday entitlements, we empower our staff to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people with learning difficulties. Join us at Wansbeck House, where your passion for person-centred care will be valued and rewarded.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Living Support Worker (female only)
✨Dive into Local Community Groups
Social work thrives on community connections, so get involved in local groups or forums specific to your interests. Whether it’s volunteering at local shelters or joining community action boards, these are great ways to boost your visibility and make direct contacts that could lead to opportunities like the one at Percy Hedley Foundation.
✨Attend Social Work Events and Workshops
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences in social work. These events are fantastic for meeting professionals in the field, learning about emerging trends, and spotting job openings. Plus, you might just bump into someone from Percy Hedley Foundation!
✨Showcase Your Passion and Expertise
Use platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn to share your journey and insights into the social work sector. Whether it’s writing about your experiences or sharing relevant articles, this helps to establish you as an engaged professional. Potential employers, like Percy Hedley Foundation, will notice your enthusiasm!
✨Leverage Your Network
Don’t hesitate to reach out to professors, mentors, or even past colleagues who are in social work. They might have inside knowledge about openings at Percy Hedley Foundation or be able to connect you with someone who’s hiring. Networking is key, especially in a full-time role where relationships matter.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Living Support Worker (female only)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let us see your passion for social work shine through! Talk about the experiences that made you want to pursue this career—whether it’s volunteering, personal experiences, or academic projects. We want to know why this field matters to you.
Emphasise Relevant Qualifications:Make sure your CV highlights any relevant qualifications, like degrees in social work or certifications like a DBS check. If you've done any workshops or training, don’t forget to include those as well. We're keen to see your commitment to your professional development!
Detail Your Experience with Clients:Since this is a hands-on field, detailing any direct experience you have with clients is crucial. Whether it's internships, volunteer roles, or previous jobs, highlight those experiences in your CV to show us you've got the practical skills necessary for the job!
Tailor Your Application to Percy Hedley Foundation:Before hitting send, make sure to tailor your application specifically to Percy Hedley Foundation! Research our mission and values, and refer to them in your cover letter. This shows us that you understand our work and are genuinely interested in being a part of our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Percy Hedley Foundation
✨Understanding the Role of Empathy
In social work, understanding and demonstrating empathy is key. Be prepared to share personal experiences or scenarios where you effectively showed compassion and support. This helps show that you genuinely care about the well-being of others, which is crucial in social work.
✨Demonstrating Knowledge of Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with the frameworks and models used in social work, such as the Strengths-Based Approach or the Ecological Perspective. Be ready to discuss how these frameworks apply to your work, especially if you can tie them into real-world examples or case studies you've encountered.
✨Showcasing Your Multi-Disciplinary Skills
In a full-time social work role, you'll often collaborate with healthcare professionals, educators, and law enforcement. Be prepared to describe your teamwork experiences and how you've effectively communicated with other disciplines to achieve the best outcomes for clients.
✨Preparing for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical social work situations, such as dealing with a crisis or managing a complex case. Think through your thought process for these scenarios beforehand, considering how you'd assess the situation and what steps you'd take, as this demonstrates your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
