Support Worker in Chichester

Description

Support people with learning disabilities to live full, happy lives.

Location

Lennox Court, Chichester

Application Deadline

17 June 2026

Department

Learning Disability

Compensation

£13.49 per hour plus shift allowances

Hours

37 per week

Contract

12 Month fixed term contract

Allowances (dependent on working times)

• Unsociable hours uplift: £4.51 extra per waking night shift
• Sleep‑in shifts: £61 per shift (10pm–7am)
• Sleep‑in disturbance: If disturbed for 1–4 hours, you get the unsociable hours uplift plus normal hourly pay for time worked. If disturbed for 4+ hours, you’re paid normal hourly rate for the entire shift plus the £4.51 allowance.

Who are we

Southdown is a not‑for‑profit provider supporting 160 adults with learning and physical disabilities across Sussex. We run 23 supported living services and 4 residential care homes.

What you’ll be doing

We’re seeking a compassionate and adaptable Support Worker to help individuals live independently and with dignity. Your role involves encouraging clients to connect with their community through activities such as walks, cinema, shopping and café visits, alongside supporting daily living tasks such as cooking, cleaning and personal care. You’ll help build clients’ confidence and independence through empowering care.

Previous Experience

Previous experience in roles such as Health Care Assistant, Support Worker, Nurse or Mental Health Care Worker is welcome but not essential, as full training will be provided.

Service Description: Lennox Court

Lennox Court is a supported living service for six adults with learning disabilities. It is a purpose‑built, one‑storey building in the Parklands area of Chichester with six self‑contained flats and specially adapted bathrooms. There is a communal lounge, dining room and kitchen for socialisation and activities. The building is close to the centre of Chichester (≈10 minutes’ walk) and train station (≈15 minutes’ walk), with frequent local buses.

Perks and benefits

• Health cost cash‑back scheme – health insurance covering dental, optical, physical therapies and other medical treatments, with option to add greater levels of cover.
• Interest‑free loans – assistance with larger costs such as tenancy deposits, season travel tickets or buying a car.
• Access to the Easit Network – discounts and incentives on train, bus and car journeys such as 15% off eligible daily and season rail tickets.
• Blue Light card – discounts for the social care sector with savings across thousands of online shops, restaurants and high‑street vendors.
• Free advice and counselling service – confidential emotional support and practical guidance from an independent telephone service.
• 25 days paid holiday plus bank holidays (or paid time in lieu for any bank holidays worked).

Knowledge, skills and experience

Required

• A patient, empathetic approach.
• Completion of Southdown’s training in health & social care, moving and handling, Positive Behaviour Support, safeguarding and health protocols.
• Willingness to support intimate and personal care needs.
• Enhanced DBS check (paid for by Southdown).

Nice to have

• Experience supporting people with physical or cognitive disabilities, learning disabilities or mental health issues.
• Experience handling challenging behaviour.
• Knowledge of medication administration and record‑keeping.
• Previous professional or personal care experience.
• Familiarity with Makaton or other non‑verbal communication methods.

Additional Requirements (sometimes needed)

• Physical ability to assist with mobility (e.g., pushing wheelchairs, supporting bathing) and participate in activities such as long walks.
• A full manual driving licence may be needed to operate service vehicles and support community access.
• Due to the nature of care, the post may sometimes be restricted to applicants of a particular sex in line with the Equality Act 2010, depending on client needs.

Training

Full training is provided, so no prior experience is necessary. You’ll gain qualifications and develop your skills with the largest housing, care and support provider in Sussex.