Personal Assistant / Support Worker Job Description

Objective

To deliver exceptional care and support, promoting, establishing, maintaining, and maximizing each individual’s potential and their chosen independent lifestyles.

The Personal Assistant / Support Worker is responsible for providing exceptional care and support to clients in their homes and the community. Key duties include assisting with daily living skills, goal-setting, fostering independence, and maintaining accurate records. The role requires collaboration with clients, the team, and the wider community, as well as adhering to organizational policies and procedures. Employee development and compliance with health and safety regulations are also crucial aspects of the position.

Key Responsibilities

1. Provide client-focused support in their homes and the community using person-centered approaches.
2. Foster client independence through flexible and supportive services.
3. Adhere to organizational policies, procedures, and maintain confidentiality.
4. Collaborate with clients, the team, the organization, and the wider community.
5. Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion within the service and the community.
6. Enable clients to take control of their lives, ensuring their needs, wishes, and preferences are met.
7. Facilitate clients’ access to opportunities, experiences, and community resources.
8. Monitor client health and wellbeing.
9. Attend staff and supervision meetings, promoting good practice across the service.
10. Complete statutory training and comply with legal requirements.

Client Support

1. Assist clients with all aspects of their agreed support plan, including personal care and medication management, where appropriate.
2. Help clients develop daily living skills, set goals, and achieve personal outcomes.
3. Encourage clients to be at the center of planning and active community members.
4. Participate in client holidays, problem-solving, and employment, education, and leisure opportunities.
5. Communicate concerns related to client health, wellbeing, and maintenance issues.
6. Support clients in making complaints and using emergency services when necessary.

Employee Development

1. Complete an agreed-upon induction within the first six weeks of employment. The induction may be extended if deemed necessary by the company.
2. Participate in ongoing induction and training for personal and professional development.
3. Engage in 6-monthly supervisions with your manager to discuss progress and areas for improvement.
4. Actively participate in an annual appraisal to set goals and evaluate performance.
5. Attend training courses to enhance your skills and knowledge, contributing to your personal development.
6. Support the development of team members as directed by your manager (e.g., assist with training and induction of new team members).
7. Participate in spot-checks performed at least every 90 days to ensure the quality of care and adherence to organizational standards.

Recording, Reporting, and Administration

1. Maintain accurate client records, including support notes, personal files, and financial records.
2. Provide regular updates to the Supported Living Manager on client progress.
3. Report concerns, safeguarding issues, or service provision shortfalls to the Manager, ensuring the wellbeing and safety of clients.
4. Assist in the development and implementation of risk assessments.
5. Adhere to organizational financial policies, procedures, and reporting requirements.

Working Environment and Potential Risks

1. Provide support to adults in various settings, including their own homes and within the community.
2. Be prepared to address challenging behavior, which may be physical, verbal, or behavioral in nature, and use non-violent crisis intervention procedures as necessary.
3. Understand COSHH implications related to handling domestic chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
4. Follow health and safety guidelines concerning food hygiene, fire safety, manual handling, and accident prevention.
5. Be prepared for shift work as the role may require working at different times of the day.
6. Drive clients and staff using personal or company vehicles as needed.
7. Attend meetings and supervisions periodically to ensure ongoing professional development and adherence to organizational standards.

This job description outlines the main areas of responsibility and is subject to review to meet client needs.