Senior Support Worker in Gateshead

Senior Support Worker to lead shifts, support day‑to‑day management of a high‑quality service for older and vulnerable people, and work closely with the Manager and Assistant Manager to supervise staff and ensure safe, effective care that meets CQC standards. The role combines hands‑on care with leadership responsibilities, allowing the individual to develop management skills within a values‑led service.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Manager by leading the shift to ensure the support needs of the service user are met in line with service values and principles through the effective management of people, buildings and finance.
• Participate in reviewing and developing service user strategies, policies and plans in response to Health and Social Care Act 2008 and CQC Registration requirements in order to maintain a safe, effective and efficient managed unit.
• Participate in the ongoing development of systems and procedures that monitor the maintenance of the building in order that the living environment is appropriate to support the needs of service users.
• Establish and maintain positive communication and professional relationships with other colleagues, service users, CQC advocacy services, carers and other professionals in order to share knowledge, seek advice and coordinate service delivery.
• Observe the centre for potential risk/hazards, loss of light/heat, intruders and take appropriate action, working in partnership with service users and their carers to plan and implement services based on assessed risk and needs.
• Assist in the absence of the Manager and the Assistant Manager by monitoring the budgets of the unit in accordance with policy and procedure and financial guidelines.
• Assist in the appointment, selection, induction and development of staff to ensure appropriately selected, trained staff support the needs of service users.
• Assist in the management of staff within the service, providing support, guidance and supervision, ensuring the agreed level of support is delivered to service users.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 3 in Care or equivalent qualification, or a commitment to work towards this with our support and training.
• QCF Level 3 in Administering Medication or equivalent qualification.
• Up‑to‑date understanding of the needs of vulnerable older adults and current best practice, ensuring safe, respectful and high‑quality care.
• Proven experience working with older people, supporting independence, wellbeing and quality of life while recognising the challenges associated with ageing.
• Committed to involving service users, families and carers in care decisions, and skilled in delivering person‑centred, tailored care plans that promote choice, dignity and individuality.
• Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, making sound decisions, prioritising workload and role‑modelling best practice to deliver consistent, high‑quality care.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, enabling positive engagement with service users, colleagues, professionals and external partners.
• Sound understanding of health and safety legislation, with the ability to actively promote safe working practices and support compliance within the service.
• DBS check: This role requires a DBS and the successful candidate will be required to apply for an enhanced Disclosure.

What’s in it for you

• Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
• Outstanding Pension Scheme: We invest in your future.
• Generous Annual Leave: 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 of which can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
• Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development and progression opportunities to grow your career.
• Health & Wellbeing Support: Discounted gym memberships through partner GLL and mental health resources.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax‑efficient cycle to work programme.
• Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Salary sacrifice car scheme in partnership with NHS Fleet Solutions for a brand‑new electric or hybrid vehicle after 12 months of service.
• Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Through the VIVUP employee benefits platform, enjoy discounts on shopping, travel and services, plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics and more after 6 months of service.

Our Commitment to You

We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to create a workplace where our people feel a sense of belonging, are respected and empowered to do their best work. We welcome applications from suitable candidates of all backgrounds, including age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.