Support Worker Job Description:
Supported Worker (Young Adults with Additional Needs)
Location: Cranleigh Area, Surrey (Semi-Rural Setting)
Salary:
- Support Worker: Up to £27,926 per annum
- Senior Support Worker: Up to £29,881 per annum
- Plus: £1,000 Recruitment & Retention Bonus
Are you searching for a genuinely impactful career opportunity where your contribution is valued daily? Our specialist client, a well-established trust, is seeking empathetic and motivated Supported Living Assistants to join their team in the Cranleigh area.
This vital role involves empowering adults with autism, learning disabilities, and communication needs to lead independent and fulfilling lives within a dedicated residential setting.
Experience is not essential – we are looking for the right attitude! If you possess resilience, empathy, and a positive outlook, our client provides all the professional training you need to succeed.
Support Worker Role and Responsibilities
As a Supported Living Support Worker , you will act as a key worker and advocate, playing a crucial role in the tenants’ personal growth and community involvement.
Key duties include:
- Daily Support: Assisting with essential life skills such as cooking, shopping, household management, and personal development.
- Encouraging Independence: Motivating tenants to build confidence, learn new skills, and manage their emotions effectively.
- Activity Facilitation: Planning and participating in a range of engaging outings and activities, from local trips and college visits to gym sessions and nature walks.
- Team Collaboration: Working as part of a committed team to foster an environment of respect, inclusion, and empowerment.
Rewards and Benefits
Our client offers an excellent package to reward your dedication:
- Financial Incentive: A generous £1,000 Retention Bonus paid across your first 18 months of service.
- Professional Development: FREE Level 3 Health & Social Care diploma (nationally recognised) and ongoing bespoke training, including Team Teach positive behaviour support.
- Time Off: 25 days of paid annual leave plus paid public holidays.
- Health Coverage: Private medical cash plan and life insurance.
- Workplace Support: Access to mental health first aiders and a strongly supportive team culture.
- Sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is available for the right candidates.
Essential Candidate Criteria
- Driving: A full, clean driving licence and access to reliable transport is mandatory due to the semi-rural location. You will be required to transport tenants (mileage reimbursed).
- Attitude: A commitment to inclusive care and a passion for supporting vulnerable adults.
- Why do you want to work as a support worker?
- What inspired you to enter the care sector?
- How do you stay motivated during challenging shifts?
2. Experience & Skills
- Can you describe your previous experience in care or support work?
- Give an example of how you’ve supported someone with daily living activities (e.g., personal care, medication, mobility).
- How do you handle confidentiality and data protection (GDPR)?
3. Person-Centred Care
- How would you ensure the service user’s choices and dignity are respected?
- Describe how you’d create a person-centred support plan.
- How do you adapt your approach for individuals with different needs (e.g., dementia, autism, learning disabilities)?
4. Safeguarding & Risk
- What would you do if you suspected abuse or neglect?
- How do you manage risk while promoting independence?
- Give an example of when you followed safeguarding procedures.
5. Challenging Situations
- How would you support someone displaying challenging behaviour?
- Describe a time you dealt with an aggressive or upset service user.
- How do you manage stress or emotional burnout?
6. Teamwork & Communication
- How do you work effectively within a multidisciplinary team?
- How would you communicate with non-verbal service users?
- Give an example of when you had a disagreement with a colleague – how did you resolve it?
7. Practical / Scenario-Based
- Scenario: A service user refuses personal care. What do you do?
- Scenario: You notice a service user has unexplained bruising. Walk me through your actions.
- Scenario: You’re running late for a medication round due to traffic. What’s your response?
8. Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
- How do you support service users from diverse cultural or religious backgrounds?
- What does equality and inclusion mean to you in a care setting?
9. Health & Safety
- How do you ensure infection control (e.g., hand hygiene, PPE)?
- Describe your understanding of moving and handling regulations (Manual Handling Operations Regulations).
10. Closing / Self-Reflection
- What are your strengths and areas for development as a support worker?
- Where do you see yourself in 2–3 years within care?
- Do you have any questions for us?
Tips for Answering (UK Context)
- Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioural questions.
- Reference CQC Fundamental Standards (e.g., person-centred, safe, effective).
- Mention safeguarding adults, Mental Capacity Act, and positive behaviour support.
- Highlight empathy, resilience, and communication.
To apply for this job please visit www.glassdoor.com.