Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Senior Care and Support Worker to join our dedicated team. The Senior Care and Support Worker will be responsible for delivering high-quality care and support to individuals, ensuring that their physical, emotional, and social needs are met. This role will also involve mentoring and supervising junior care staff, assisting with care planning, and ensuring that services are delivered in accordance with relevant regulations and best practices.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Direct Care and Support:
Provide personal care and support to individuals, including assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and mobility.
Monitor and report on clients' health and well-being, including identifying any changes in condition and escalating concerns to the relevant healthcare professionals.
Support clients with medication management, ensuring that prescriptions are followed and any side effects or issues are reported.
Foster a positive and supportive environment, encouraging clients to maintain independence and dignity.
2. Supervisory and Mentoring:
Lead and supervise a team of care staff, ensuring that they provide high standards of care and follow care plans and company policies.
Mentor and support junior care staff, offering guidance, training, and support to help them develop their skills and confidence.
Conduct staff appraisals, providing constructive feedback and identifying training needs.
Ensure care staff adhere to professional codes of conduct and safety protocols, offering support where needed.
3. Care Planning and Assessment:
Contribute to the development, review, and updating of individualized care plans for each client.
Work with the care team to assess the needs of new and existing clients and ensure their care plans reflect their changing needs.
Ensure that clients' care is tailored to their preferences, cultural needs, and individual goals.
4. Health & Safety and Compliance:
Ensure the care service operates in compliance with all relevant legislation, policies, and procedures, including safeguarding protocols.
Conduct regular risk assessments and ensure that care staff are trained in emergency procedures, infection control, and health and safety regulations.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of care provided, and ensure that all documentation complies with regulatory and organizational standards.
5. Communication and Liaison:
Establish and maintain strong relationships with clients, their families, and other healthcare professionals to ensure high-quality care.
Provide regular feedback to clients and families regarding progress, well-being, and any concerns.
Assist with the coordination of services, liaising with external healthcare providers, social workers, and other agencies to ensure holistic care is provided.
6. Continuous Improvement:
Participate in regular team meetings and training sessions to improve care delivery and team performance.
Identify areas for improvement and contribute to the development of care practices.
Ensure the team is motivated and encouraged to maintain a high standard of care.
Key Skills & Qualifications:
Essential:
NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care (or equivalent) or willingness to work towards.
Minimum of 2 years' experience in a care or support worker role, with at least 1 year in a senior or supervisory position.
A strong understanding of care planning, safeguarding, and health and safety procedures.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with clients, families, and colleagues.
Ability to lead by example, demonstrating professionalism and compassion in all interactions.
Sound knowledge of relevant legislation (e.g., Care Act 2014, Health and Social Care Act 2008) and best practices in care delivery.
The ability to work under pressure and handle challenging situations effectively.
Desirable:
Experience working with individuals with specific needs, such as elderly clients, people with dementia, or those with physical or learning disabilities.
First Aid and/or Medication Administration training.
Full, clean driving license (if applicable to the role).