At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with learning disabilities to live independently and enjoy life.
- Company: Join Southdown, a not-for-profit provider making a difference in Sussex.
- Benefits: Earn £12.96 per hour, plus bonuses for unsociable hours and sleep-in shifts.
- Other info: Enjoy 22 days paid holiday, health benefits, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in people's lives while enjoying diverse daily activities.
- Qualifications: Empathy and patience are key; training provided, no experience necessary.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 16 € per hour.
Support people with learning disabilities to live full, happy lives.
Location: Alinora, Goring-by-Sea
Salary: £12.96 per hour
Hours: 20 to 37 per week
Allowances (dependent on working times):
- Unsociable hours uplift: £4.40 extra per waking night shift
- Sleep-in shifts: £61 per shift (10pm-7am)
- Sleep-in disturbance: If disturbed for 14 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 £4.40 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: Are you passionate about making a real difference? 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 like 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 in a rewarding role where no two days are the same. 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.
The best thing about my job is the clients. Getting to know them, getting to know their characters and just enjoying life with them - Karen, Southdown Support Worker.
Service Description: Alinora is a supported living service for seven adults with a learning disability. The property is made up of a bungalow with 5 bedrooms all with en-suite bathrooms, and a semi-detached converted bungalow with three individual newly developed apartments next door. It is based in Goring, one road away from the sea, and close to shops and public transport. Our clients are supported to lead active, fulfilling lives and are supported to make the most of their local community while developing each client's choice, control and independence.
Perks and benefits:
- Health cost cash-back scheme: access to our health insurance scheme which covers dental, optical, physical therapies and other medical treatments with the option to add greater levels of cover.
- Interest-free loans: assistance with larger costs that arise 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: access to discount services 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 our independent telephone service.
- 22 days paid holiday plus bank holidays (or paid time in lieu for any bank holidays worked).
Knowledge, skills and experience:
What you need for the role:
- 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)
- A full manual driving licence to operate service vehicles and support community access
What would be nice:
- 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 like long walks
- 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.
How to apply: Please click on the Apply Now button and fill out our simple one-page application form. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and an appointment may be made before the advertisement is closed if a suitable candidate is identified. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Support Worker in Worthing employer: Southdown
Southdown is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with learning disabilities. Located in the picturesque Goring-by-Sea, our supportive work culture fosters compassion and adaptability, offering comprehensive training and development opportunities for all staff. With competitive pay, generous holiday allowances, and unique benefits like health cost cash-back schemes and interest-free loans, we empower our Support Workers to thrive both personally and professionally while enjoying the vibrant community around them.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Worker in Worthing
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Southdown and understand their mission. This will help you connect your values with theirs during interviews, showing that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your people skills! As a Support Worker, you'll be interacting with clients daily. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to boost your confidence and communication skills before the big day.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share your passion! Think of specific examples where you've made a positive impact on someone's life, whether through work or personal experiences. This will help you stand out as a compassionate candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets seen quickly. Plus, the sooner you apply, the better your chances of landing that dream job with us at Southdown!
We think you need these skills to ace Support Worker in Worthing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for supporting others and any personal experiences that have shaped your approach.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your skills and experiences align with what we’re looking for. Whether it’s your empathy or adaptability, show us why you’d be a great fit for our team!
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon to ensure we can easily understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Early:Don’t wait until the last minute! We review applications as they come in, so applying early gives you a better chance of standing out. Head over to our website and get your application in today!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southdown
✨Know Your Clients
Before the interview, take some time to understand the needs and challenges faced by individuals with learning disabilities. Familiarise yourself with the types of activities you might engage them in, like walks or café visits. This will show your genuine interest in making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, highlight your empathetic approach. Share examples from your past experiences where you've supported someone in need, whether in a professional or personal setting. This will demonstrate that you have the right mindset for a Support Worker role.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, such as supporting someone with challenging behaviour. Think through potential scenarios beforehand and prepare your responses. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions about the role and the team. Inquire about the training provided or how success is measured in the position. This shows your enthusiasm and commitment to understanding the role better.
