Job Description

Job Title
Care Support Assistant Bank Worker

Department and Location
Care & Support Services, Development Centre

Reports To
Support Services Manager through the Senior Care Support Assistant

Job Summary
To carry out administrative and therapeutic tasks under the guidance and support of a registered Occupational Therapist.

Main Function of job

Under the direction and supervision of the Senior Care Support Assistant, the Care Support Assistant will be responsible for delivering a service for young adults with learning and physical disabilities to a high standard, compatible with the aims, objectives, policies and procedures of the Development Centre, within the Centre and in the Community.

He/she will participate in the implementation of Care Plans and therapeutic guidelines in order to enable clients to achieve maximum independence, health and self-esteem.

Main Duties

To provide a high standard of personal care to clients in a sensitive and respectful manner.
To monitor the physical and emotional well being of all clients in order to be aware of changes and to alert senior colleagues as necessary.
To work with therapists/team members to ensure optimum support in all aspects of the clients’ daily life.
To assist in providing a service that is client-centred, maintaining their morale by communication and contact to enable them to strive to fulfil their plans and goals.
To work as an effective member of the multi-disciplinary team.
To assist clients in achieving a high standard of physical care, including diet, hygiene and appearance.
To participate in general household duties and support clients in the management of their rooms and common areas.
To observe strict confidentiality in respect of any information regarding clients or information relating to the running of Client Support Services Department and the Development Centre.
To contribute to and attend handover meetings, Multi Disciplinary Team (MDT) meetings and any other meetings as required.
To comply with the requirements of employees under the Health and Safety at Work Act and other Centre policies and procedures and to report any accident/hazards to the Management.
To drive vehicles, if applicable, in order to facilitate social and educational trips for clients.
To complete successfully the induction and foundation training as specified.
To take sole responsibility for the welfare and safety of clients when out in the community and whilst off-site.
Supporting clients with their finances as deemed necessary.
Planning, organisation and delivery of group sessions and activities with clients, as and when the situation arises.
Undertake and successfully complete training in administration of medication to clients in the event of an emergency (e.g. epilepsy emergency treatment).
To provide first line response and 24 hour care to clients with acute medical conditions such as diabetes and epilepsy.
To support and escort clients when attending any medical, dental and any other necessary appointments.
To ensure that the Manager is aware of availability for smooth operation of staff work rotas.

Responsibilities for staff/assets and equipment

No responsibility for staff. Sole responsibility for clients’ welfare and safety whilst working out in the community or attending appointments. The post-holder has delegated responsibilities when on duty for premises, assets, equipment and the welfare of clients.

Problem Solving And Decision Making

The post-holder is encouraged and required to use his/her own initiative in suggesting solutions when required, referring to the Senior Care Support Assistant or Manager of Support Services for approval before implementation.
The post-holder will be required to take decisions in emergency situations which may require him/her to provide first response first aid or medication to clients.
He/she will operate within established policies and procedures, including written guidelines provided by the Development Centre which are in keeping with the Surrey Registered Homes Inspection and Registration Unit recommendations and other guidelines of good practice as decided by the Manager of Support Services.

Written and Verbal Communication

The Care Support Assistant will maintain effective communication both internally and externally from the Centre.

Internally

To provide written and verbal reports on clients and contribute in the recording of Care Plans as appropriate.
To work with others (e.g. therapists) in maintaining effective working relationships and good communication between staff and clients.

Externally

To develop and maintain good contact and co-operation with relatives of clients, advocates, voluntary bodies and members of the public. He/she is, however, required to refer important enquiries and/or concerns to/from external contacts to the Principal, Registered Manager, Manager of Support Services and Senior Care Support Assistants.

To attend client reviews as and when requested by the Line manager

Tools and Equipment Used

The post-holder will use all equipment appropriate to maintain the needs of the clients, for example hoists, slings, sliding mats, adaptive equipment.

Physical/Mental Effort

The post-holder needs to be aware and alert to the requirements and needs of clients at all times. Although there are regular breaks built into each shift, the post-holder is perceived to be “on duty” throughout the 7.5 hour shift. He/she needs to be physically fit as the job involves moving and handling of clients during bathing, toileting, transferring etc. Flexibilty is required.

Education/Qualifications Required/Desirable

No formal qualifications are required, however, the post-holder needs to be literate and numerate since writing of reports and implementation of Care Plans is an integral part of the Job.

NVQ level 2 in Care or equivalent is a requirement either gained previously or to be achieved while in post.

Willingness to achieve NVQ1 in IT.

Experience Required

Although, exceptionally, applicants with limited experience might be considered, the post requires relevant experience of working in a residential setting with young adults with disabilities and/or learning difficulties.

A full Driving Licence would be advantageous.

Competence in IT or willingness to achieve this.