Support Worker with British Sign Language (BSL)/Communication Skills

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Support Worker with British Sign Language (BSL)/Communication Skills

Responsible to: Registered Manager/ Deputy Manager

Job Purpose:

To provide one-to-one support to a Deaf child living in a residential care setting, using appropriate communication strategies to ensure the child is fully included, understood, and supported in all aspects of daily life. You will work closely with the staff team to build a consistent, nurturing, and communicative environment, promoting the child's independence, self-expression, and well-being.

Key Responsibilities:

Support the daily care of a Deaf child, including assistance with communication, personal care, and participation in home and community activities.

Facilitate clear and effective communication between the child and other staff or professionals, using appropriate methods (e.g., British Sign Language, visual aids, gestures, written communication, etc.).

Contribute to the development and implementation of the child's care plan, with a focus on communication needs and independence.

Promote Deaf awareness among the wider staff team and peers, offering basic guidance on communication techniques and inclusive practice.

Record observations and maintain clear, accurate notes on the child's progress, communication needs, and well-being.

Encourage and support the young person to develop confidence and self-advocacy skills.

Always safeguard and promote the welfare of the child, working in line with the home's safeguarding procedures.

Carry out any other tasks consistent with the role, as directed by the line manager

Statutory Duties:

Safeguarding

Act in accordance with the home's safeguarding policy and raise concerns promptly.

Equality and Diversity

Promote inclusive practices and respect for diversity in all aspects of your work.

Health and Safety

Comply with all health and safety guidance and procedures.

Training and Development

Engage fully in training relevant to your role, including communication strategies, safeguarding, and supporting children with complex needs.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Job Title: Support Worker with British Sign Language (BSL)/Communication Skills

Essential Desirable

Qualifications/ Training

Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in British Sign Language

• English and mathematics or similar at GCSE grade A-C or equivalent or willingness to achieve English and mathematics Level 2 within one year
• Safeguarding training
• Equality and diversity training
• Level 3 in Residential Child Care.

Knowledge/ Experience

• Experience of providing support to individuals in a care setting
• Experience of working with Deaf or children with hard of hearing
• Evidence of high performance in previous roles/jobs
• Experience of working effectively with people from diverse backgrounds
• Evidence of understanding how to promote equality and diversity within the job role
• Experience of working effectively in a customer focused environment
• knowledge and understanding of working within the guidelines from the Children's Act 1989, Children's Act 2004, National Minimum Standards, Children's Home Regulations 2015, Healthy child programme and any other relevant legislation.

Skills/Abilities

• Ability to work in line with our Values at Agility house
• High Performance
• Respect, Openness, Honesty and explain how this relates to the job role
• Ability to make a positive contribution to the team, valuing and respecting others' expertise and contribution
• Ability to promote our reputation and always carry out our business appropriately and professionally
• Ability to communicate effectively and confidently face to face, on the telephone and in writing

Special Requirements

• Responsibility for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children, young people and for raising any concerns
• Ability to form and maintain appropriate relationships and personal boundaries with children, young people.
• Willingness continuously to update skills and knowledge
• Flexible approach to work and working times
• Willingness to travel to and work at all locations where we provide a service
• Awareness of health and safety requirements relevant to the job