At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals to build independence and develop communication skills in their own homes.
- Company: Positive Futures, a leading organisation dedicated to empowering individuals with learning disabilities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, vacation, paid sick days, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to innovation and respect in a dynamic workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: QCF Level 3 or equivalent experience in health and social care required.
The predicted salary is between 29500 - 35500 £ per year.
Being a Specialist Senior Support Worker is about using your skills to make a real and lasting difference in someone's life. You'll support a person in their own home to build independence, develop communication, and shape a life that reflects their choices and goals. This role involves getting to know each person in depth, how they communicate, what matters to them, and what can make day-to-day life easier or more difficult. You'll use Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) in a practical way, adjusting your approach based on what you learn and what the situation calls for.
You won't do this alone; at Positive Futures, our dedicated PBS Team work alongside all of our services, offering hands-on coaching, training and guidance, to support you in delivering high-quality, person-centred support. This includes support with PBS planning, reflective practice, and on-the-floor coaching, helping you and your team continuously develop and strengthen practice.
You’ll be supported by a dedicated specialist leadership team, including Specialist Deputy Managers and Specialist Service Manager. The Ormiston team is already so proud of the progress achieved so far, alongside the person we support, who continues to build confidence, independence and a life shaped by their own choices. We are now recruiting to expand this unique service further, creating additional capacity to support more people in the same way. This is an opportunity to join a service at a unique time, where strong foundations are already in place, and where your contribution will directly support continued growth, achievement and quality of life for the people we support.
About The Role
- Have Co-ordinator (Keyworker) responsibility for people who are supported by the service. This includes involvement in the development, implementation and evaluation of Person-Centred Portfolios (PCPs).
- Have lead responsibility for co-ordinating reviews with the person, their families/carers and any other significant people.
- Ensure any risks that are identified during support of a person are responded to promptly and escalated in line with Positive Futures Risk Management Policy.
- Ensure all PBS recommendations are implemented and liaise with the PBS Team to promote and support safe and effective Positive Behaviour Support strategies which, where appropriate, are trauma informed, and outline all aspects of support required to enable people to live their best life possible.
- On call responsibilities are part of this role.
- Accurately and effectively complete audits, ensure that documents and records are maintained and up to date.
- Write short reports and ensure incidents and events are documented.
- Lead handovers and ensure effective communication.
Access NI: An Enhanced Access NI Disclosure Check will be required for this position. A criminal record will not necessarily prevent you from obtaining the position. Positive Futures adheres to the Access NI Code of Practice, a copy of which can be made available upon request. Positive Futures also have a Policy and procedure on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders and Storage & Handling copies of which can be made available upon request.
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of religious belief; political opinion; sex; sexual orientation; marital or civil partnership status; racial group; age; disability.
Required Criteria
- QCF Level 3, Psychology Degree, Psychology Masters Degree, Professional Social Work Qualification, First Level Registered Nurse, Allied Health Professional OR 4 Years Experience in a Health and Social Care Setting - AND 2-3 Year Experiences in a Health and Social Care Setting in addition to Qualification above.
- At least 2 years experience of working with people with a learning disability OR autism.
- At least 2 years experience in managing behaviours of concern through the implementation of Positive Behaviour Support.
- Previous experience providing input to developing and implementing person centred support plans (Care Plans).
- Be registered, or be eligible for registration on appointment, on the appropriate part of the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC) or other relevant professional body.
- Full valid UK driving license in order to meet the requirements to drive service or motability cars.
Desired Criteria
- At least 1 years relevant supervisory experience.
- Knowledge of alternative communication systems (Visuals, PECS, AAC).
About The Company
Founded in 1995 (initially under the name United Response NI), we now operate across Northern Ireland offering a wide range of services tailored to individuals with learning disabilities, acquired brain injury or autism and the families who support them. Our services include supported living, peripatetic housing support, shared-lives schemes, residential short breaks and family support. We focus on enabling people to live as equal citizens, develop independence and realise their hopes and dreams. With offices and services located in Bangor, Belfast, Enniskillen, Lisburn, Omagh and beyond, we're committed to making a meaningful difference in local communities.
Company Culture
At Positive Futures, we foster a culture of respect, innovation and empowerment. We believe in putting people first—both those we support and our staff. We create environments where colleagues feel valued, where ideas for improvement are welcomed, and where continuous learning is encouraged. We support staff to grow professionally and personally, and we emphasise collaboration, listening and trust. Working with us means being part of a team that genuinely cares, is proactive in shaping futures and embraces the possibility in every situation.
Company Benefits
Our Staff and people we support are our strength and our people are at the heart of everything we do, those are not just our values it's who we are. Working at Positive Futures means doing work that matters - and being supported by people who genuinely care about your growth and wellbeing. We want you to feel valued, encouraged and set up to thrive, both in and outside of your role. That's why our benefits are built around one simple idea: when you're supported, you can make an even bigger difference to the people we support.
- Vacation
- Paid time off
- Paid sick days
- Retirement plan and/or pension
- Employee development programs
- Sabbatical leave
- Referral bonus
- Competitive salary
- Employee Assistance Scheme
- Wellbeing Scheme
- Blue Light Card
- Social Opportunities
- Annual performance review
- On the job learning
- Progression opportunities
- Access to Health & Wellbeing app
- Bereavement leave
Salary £29,500.00 - £35,500.00 per year.
Specialist Senior Support Worker - Waking Nights in Newtownabbey employer: Positive Futures
At Positive Futures, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with learning disabilities and autism. Our supportive work culture fosters respect, innovation, and empowerment, ensuring that our staff feel valued and encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. With comprehensive benefits, ongoing training, and a collaborative environment, joining our team means being part of a mission-driven organisation that truly cares about your wellbeing and development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Senior Support Worker - Waking Nights in Newtownabbey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the health and social care sector. Attend local events or online webinars where you can meet people who might know about job openings. Remember, sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to Positive Behaviour Support and person-centred care. We recommend role-playing with a friend or using mock interview tools to boost your confidence. The more prepared you are, the better you'll shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for making a difference! When you get the chance to speak about your experiences, highlight specific examples of how you've supported individuals with learning disabilities or autism. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us. So, go ahead and submit that application!
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Senior Support Worker - Waking Nights in Newtownabbey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your passion for supporting others shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in people's lives, so share your experiences and motivations that led you to this role.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight the skills and experiences that match the job description. We’re looking for specific examples of how you've used Positive Behaviour Support or worked with individuals with learning disabilities or autism.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and understand, so make sure your key points stand out.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Positive Futures
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Specialist Senior Support Worker inside out. Familiarise yourself with Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and how it applies to the job. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your relevant experience, especially working with individuals with learning disabilities or autism. Prepare specific examples of how you've implemented person-centred support plans or managed behaviours of concern. This will demonstrate your capability and fit for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how the PBS Team collaborates with support workers. This shows that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're keen on being part of their mission.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Since this role involves coordinating with families and other professionals, highlight your teamwork and communication skills. Share examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles, especially during handovers or reviews, to ensure everyone is on the same page.
