Specialist Support Worker

Main Duties & ResponsibilitiesResident Support

• Act as a key worker for an allocated caseload of residents.
• Provide empathetic, respectful support and challenge discrimination, negative stereotypes, or poor practice.
• Support residents to engage in social, educational, and leisure activities that promote wellbeing.
• Work collaboratively with residents to create and review person-centred support plans, action plans, and SMART goals.
• Encourage residents to maintain clean and safe living environments.
• Carry out wellbeing checks and ensure the safety and security of the building during day and night shifts.
• Monitor medication compliance and report any concerns to healthcare providers.

• Recognise and report signs of abuse, neglect, or safeguarding concerns in line with policy and legislation.
• Ensure only authorised individuals enter the building and respond to emergencies according to procedures.

• Participate in duty rotas that meet the needs of the service.
• Work in partnership with external professionals and agencies.
• Contribute to maintaining a clean, safe, high-quality service environment (may include basic domestic tasks and simple catering support).
• Lone working may be required at smaller units, with access to on-call support.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including support plans, risk assessments, incident reports, and electronic notes.
• Work in line with relevant legislation such as the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, Mental Health Act, Data Protection Act 2018, and safeguarding policies.
• Ensure all complaints are managed in accordance with policy.

• Complete full induction and mandatory training, including safeguarding, GDPR, fire safety, health & safety, and equality & diversity.
• Attend staff meetings, supervisions, and residents' meetings as required.
• Maintain confidentiality and present yourself professionally at all times.

• Educated to GCSE level or equivalent.
• Experience supporting individuals with mental health needs and/or challenging behaviour.
• Ability to write accurate reports and communicate effectively with residents, colleagues, and external agencies.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Understanding of safeguarding, equality & diversity, and professional boundaries.
• Basic IT skills for record-keeping.

• Health & Social Care qualification (Level 2+).
• Experience working in supported housing or a social care environment.
• Experience supporting individuals with substance misuse or alcohol-related needs.
• Ability to prepare basic meals when required.