At a Glance
- Tasks: Support clients in developing independent living skills and assist with healthcare needs.
- Company: Join Queen Alexandra Charity, a vibrant college dedicated to empowering students with special educational needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, access to fitness facilities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Shift work includes weekends and sleep-ins, with additional pay for overnight shifts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your own skills in an inclusive setting.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in care is preferred; training will be provided.
The predicted salary is between 24127 - 24720 £ per year.
Independence Plus Support Worker
Application Deadline: 1 June 2026
Department: Independence Plus
Employment Type: Permanent
Location: Harborne, Birmingham, UK
Reporting To: Giles Logan
Compensation: £25,115 - £25,708 / year
Description
To be part of a team of care staff supporting IP clients to access the 24 hour curriculum at QAC by working towards set targets to develop client’s independent living skills. Salary is based on experience and qualifications. This role involves shift work, sleep ins, and working one day on the weekend. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
Key Responsibilities
- Promote the aims and ethos of the College both within the teaching and learning context and within the corporate life of the College.
- Understand and respect individual client’s right, choices, personal dignity, privacy and aspirations.
- Appreciate and comply with CQC Regulations in relation to residential care.
- To administer prescribed Medication and Homely Remedies to clients as required, closely following QAC’s Handling and Administering Medication policy. To immediately act up any medication errors.
- To support clients with healthcare needs including, but not limited to, Diabetes and Epilepsy.
- Help plan, promote and maintain good care practice and contribute positively to teamwork through good communication with other IP support staff and attend team meetings.
- To monitor daily support and achievements via the ‘Care Log’ system on Databridge MIS
- Contribute to the implementation of support plans, risk assessments, clients’ reviews, and targets.
- Liaise with clients’ families, where appropriate.
- Initiate and be involved in clients’ leisure activities.
- Encourage integration and inclusion into the wider social community
- Maintain effective record systems to a quality standard, which complies with internal and external regulations.
- Actively partake in professional supervision and attend mandatory training as required
- To have a flexible approach to rota requirements within the remit of service need as directed by IP Manager and seniors, including sleep ins on a rota basis (for which there is an additional nightly payment).
- To work under the guidance of the IP Manager and seniors on a day to day basis
- Become familiar with all policies and procedures, including Health and Safety, Clients Complaints procedures, First Aid and Safeguarding.
- To be able to relate, motivate and communicate with young adults with disabilities.
- To be able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
- Have a willingness to complete training and the care certificate by demonstrating the necessary competencies
- To be able to follow company policies and procedures
- To have previous experience within a care setting (can be paid, voluntary, carer or support worker IP experience)
- To be able to make effective working relations with other members of the IP team.
- To have an understanding of and commitment to equal opportunities.
- To be able to keep calm and follow procedures in stressful situations.
- To be committed to supporting residential clients to develop their independent skills and to support them with transition post college
- To have a proven ability to complete written reports
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills
- Good standard of IT skills, including Microsoft word and email systems
- Caring, understanding and nurturing individual
- An individual keen to develop into the role and attend training
- Have the ability to communicate clearly with people with support needs
- Experience of supporting a team
- Experience with planning leisure activities
- General knowledge of CQC’s Key Lines of Enquiry
- Understanding of confidentiality and data protection
- To have a flexible approach to the job role
- Experience of maintaining clear and accurate records
- Understanding of the Mental Capacity act
Benefits
- Schedule 1 Benefits (reviewed annually and/or as appropriate)
- Academic Year 2024/25
- Access to on site car parking
- Use of QAC Fitness Centre (subject to opening hours)
- Cycle to Work Scheme (Salary Sacrifice)
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme Helpline (BHSF)
- Access to Education Support Free Helpline for Teachers & Education Staff
- QAC Mental Health First Aiders & activities to support health and wellbeing
- BHSF Benefits Package including Healthcare Plans, discounted shopping/services
- Annual Flu vaccination/voucher
- Access to other benefit/discount schemes (which may be subject to charge) e.g. Blue Light Card, TOTUM (NUS), Charity Worker Discounts, Discounts for Teachers
- Dell Advantage programme - a free programme that offers savings to students, parents and all staff at QAC - up to 20% off. https://www.dell.com/en-uk/lp/dell-advantage
- Health and Wellbeing Services (Occupational Health/Counselling)
- Free Tea/Coffee and Staff Room facilities
- Dining Room facilities with hot/cold food (free meal provided for those supporting students at mealtimes)
- Additional discretionary concessionary/closure days as part of leave entitlement (including closure over Christmas/New Year period)
- Reward and Recognition Policy – Living the Values Awards (team & individual) and long service
- Enhanced/Occupational paid leave e.g. maternity/paternity (subject to qualifying criteria)
- Occupational sick pay (based on length of service)
- On site wellbeing activities (e.g. yoga, meditation)
- Support for training/ CPD (either by way of study leave and/or funding)
- Flexible working arrangements including Flexible Working Policy Agreements, Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) in prior agreement with line manager.
Independence Plus Support Worker in Birmingham employer: Queen Alexandra College
At Queen Alexandra Charity Birmingham, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of students with special educational needs. Our vibrant work culture fosters inclusivity and collaboration, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development while ensuring that our staff feel valued and supported. With a range of benefits including access to wellness programmes, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, joining our team means becoming part of a community that truly cares about your success and the futures of our students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independence Plus Support Worker in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of clients with disabilities. Understanding their challenges and how to support them effectively will show your commitment to the role and make you stand out during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have in care settings, whether paid or voluntary. Be prepared to discuss specific situations where you successfully supported individuals in developing their independent living skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your understanding of CQC regulations and the importance of compliance in residential care. This knowledge will be crucial in showing that you can maintain high standards of care and safety for clients.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your teamwork and communication skills, as these are vital in a supportive role. Think of examples where you've worked collaboratively with others to achieve a common goal, especially in challenging situations.
We think you need these skills to ace Independence Plus Support Worker in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in care settings, especially any roles where you've supported individuals with disabilities. Emphasise your interpersonal skills and any specific training or qualifications that align with the job description.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement:In your personal statement, express your passion for supporting individuals with special educational needs. Discuss how your values align with the ethos of Queen Alexandra Charity and provide examples of how you've made a positive impact in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills:Clearly outline your skills that are pertinent to the role, such as communication, teamwork, and record-keeping. Mention any experience you have with CQC regulations and your ability to handle medication safely, as these are crucial for the position.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is essential in a care role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Queen Alexandra College
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities of an Independence Plus Support Worker. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these responsibilities, especially in areas like supporting clients with healthcare needs and promoting independent living skills.
✨Show Your Passion for Care
During the interview, express your genuine passion for working with individuals with special educational needs. Share specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact in their lives.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle stressful situations. Think of examples where you've successfully managed challenging circumstances in a care setting, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
Since this role involves working closely with other support staff, emphasise your teamwork skills. Discuss how you have effectively collaborated with colleagues in previous roles to achieve common goals, and how you can contribute positively to the team at QAC.
