Support Worker Job Summary
We seek the services of a Support Worker in our Community. Our Community based Mental Health services are currently embarking on an exciting period of transformation, where we will continue to build on providing excellent place based mental health services for the population of Gloucestershire.
We are seeking compassionate, creative & self-motivated Support workers / mental health professionals to support us in continuing to offer a truly great assessment, signposting and short-term treatment service. As part of the transformation, opportunities will arise which may evolve this role in the near future. Any questions regarding this can be discussed at interview or interested applicants are welcome to make contact for an informal conversation during the application stage.
Our health care professional teams, some of whom are Non-Medical Prescribers (NMP), work across the county in local teams.
We require forward thinking individuals who have an interest in working in a Mental Health Primary Care context within local GP Surgeries and other Gloucestershire Health and Care Teams, offering assessment, consultation and support to General Practice staff and colleagues in the voluntary and third sector.
Main duties of the job
Our professional teams provide assessment, treatment and signposting to other community services based on health promotion, recovery and socially inclusive principles. We work in GP surgeries as well as community bases, providing face to face, video and telephone appointments.
The service currently has access to a range of psychological interventions that form part of the NHS Talking Therapies Service (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies ) service. As an autonomous worker you will be using your initiative when decision making around which services will best serve your patient.
You will be an experienced, qualified Mental Health professional (Nurse, Social Worker or Occupational Therapist, (registered with the appropriate professional body) and have experience of first line mental health assessments, including risk assessment. You might be, or are interested in becoming a non-medical prescriber (NMP, RMNs only). We are able to support training as an NMP.
Participating in supervision and mentoring students is a key part of this role.
(FAQs) about Support Worker in the United Kingdom
1. What is a Support Worker?
A Support Worker in the UK helps people who may need assistance with day-to-day tasks due to various reasons such as physical disabilities, mental health issues, learning disabilities, or age-related conditions. They provide personal care, emotional support, and help with activities such as cooking, cleaning, and transportation.
2. What qualifications do I need to become a Support Worker in the UK?
- Education: A formal qualification isn’t always required, but a good level of education is helpful. Many employers prefer candidates who have a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care.
- Experience: Previous experience in care, whether paid or voluntary, is beneficial. Some employers may also consider life experience in caring for a family member or friend.
- Skills: Strong communication, empathy, patience, and a caring nature are essential for the role. Some employers may require you to have specific training, such as safeguarding, manual handling, and first aid.
3. What are the duties and responsibilities of a Support Worker?
The duties of a Support Worker vary depending on the needs of the individual you are supporting, but generally, they include:
- Helping with daily living tasks (e.g., dressing, eating, personal hygiene)
- Assisting with mobility and movement
- Supporting individuals in social activities and community integration
- Helping with household tasks like cooking, cleaning, and shopping
- Administering medication or supporting individuals with their medication routines (under supervision)
- Offering emotional and psychological support
- Assisting with financial management (if required)
- Supporting individuals with educational or work-related tasks
- Encouraging independence and promoting self-esteem
4. How do I apply for a Support Worker job in the UK?
You can find Support Worker jobs in the UK through various job boards such as:
- NHS Jobs (for roles within the NHS)
- Indeed
- Reed
- Totaljobs You can also visit local council websites or recruitment agencies specializing in health and social care roles.
5. How much do Support Workers earn in the UK?
The salary of a Support Worker in the UK can vary depending on the region, experience, and the type of support work:
- Starting Salary: Typically around £18,000 to £20,000 per year.
- Experienced Support Workers: Can earn between £21,000 and £24,000 per year.
- Specialized or Senior Support Workers: Those with more experience or additional responsibilities may earn between £25,000 and £28,000 annually.
Pay rates can also differ for part-time or full-time roles, as well as depending on whether the role requires night shifts or weekend work.
6. What is the working schedule like for a Support Worker?
Support Workers often work on a shift basis, which can include evenings, weekends, and nights, depending on the needs of the individual or the setting in which you work. The job may also involve 24-hour care in residential homes, or scheduled visits in community settings.
7. Are there career advancement opportunities for Support Workers in the UK?
Yes, Support Workers can progress in their careers by gaining experience, taking additional training, and completing further qualifications. Possible career paths include:
- Senior Support Worker
- Team Leader or Supervisor
- Specialist roles (e.g., working with specific conditions like autism, mental health, or learning disabilities)
- Care Coordinator or Manager positions
- Nursing or Social Work roles, with further education or qualifications in those areas
8. What is the difference between a Support Worker and a Care Worker?
While both roles involve supporting people with personal care and daily tasks, a Care Worker typically provides more direct, personal care, while a Support Worker often focuses on a wider range of tasks, including emotional support, social integration, and supporting individuals in achieving independence. However, in practice, the roles can overlap.
9. Is there any specific training required to become a Support Worker in the UK?
Some essential training includes:
- Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid
- Safeguarding of Vulnerable Adults and Children
- Health and Safety
- Manual Handling
- Infection Control Many employers provide these training sessions after you start working, but you may also be asked to complete them before starting your role.
10. What personal qualities are important for a Support Worker?
The following personal qualities are essential for a successful Support Worker career:
- Empathy and compassion: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others.
- Patience: Many individuals supported by care workers may need extra time to complete tasks or express themselves.
- Good communication skills: To understand the needs of those you support and communicate effectively with other team members.
- Reliability: The ability to be dependable, especially when working with vulnerable individuals.
- Flexibility: The needs of the individuals being supported can vary, and flexibility is required for unexpected changes in care requirements.
- Physical stamina: Some roles may require physical tasks like lifting, moving, or assisting with mobility.
11. What benefits do Support Workers receive in the UK?
Benefits for Support Workers vary by employer but may include:
- Paid holidays (usually around 28 days per year for full-time employees)
- Pension scheme options
- Sick pay and maternity/paternity leave (depending on the employer)
- Training and professional development opportunities
- Employee assistance programs (support with health, well-being, and finances)
- Opportunities for career progression
12. Can I work as a Support Worker part-time in the UK?
Yes, part-time positions are available for Support Workers in many settings. Part-time roles can offer flexibility for those balancing work with other commitments, and you may be able to choose shifts that suit your schedule.
13. What types of Support Worker roles are available in the UK?
Support Workers can work in various sectors, including:
- Learning Disabilities: Supporting individuals with learning difficulties in homes or community settings.
- Mental Health: Working with individuals who have mental health conditions, either in hospitals or community-based care.
- Physical Disabilities: Assisting individuals with mobility and personal care needs.
- Elderly Care: Supporting older individuals in residential care homes or in their own homes.
- Youth Support: Helping young people in care or at risk of social exclusion.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Support: Working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
To apply for this job please visit apps.trac.jobs.