The Ark Project

Senior Support Worker & Driver with UK Licence - Adults with Learning Disabilities



Do you have team-leading skills?
Are you looking for a role that has clear pathways into management?
Do you want to make a lasting difference to the lives of adults with Learning Difficulties and Autism?

If the answer is “yes”, then a Senior Residential Support Worker role with PA Ark Projects Ltd. could be perfect for you.

We have a fantastic opportunity for an enthusiastic Senior Support Worker to join our team supporting Adults with Learning Disabilities at Abelands House, our residential home in Merston, Chichester.

At Abelands House we strive to promote independent daily living for our service users who have complex and sometimes challenging behaviours and require professional, dedicated, and caring individuals to help make a difference to those we support. As a Senior Support Worker, you will play a vital leadership role within the team, providing guidance and support to staff whilst ensuring the wellbeing of the individuals we support. You will need to be adaptable, organised, and an excellent communicator with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

This is permanent full time position. Full time employees are contracted to 38 hours per week.

Rate of Pay: £13.57 per hour.

Qualifications and Experience
Candidates must hold or be willing to work towards their NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health & Social Care. A minimum of 2 year’s experiences in Adult Services, specifically supporting adults with learning disabilities is required.

Responsibilities



As a Senior Support Worker, you will:
  • Health and wellbeing: Support individuals to make positive choices about eating well, exercising, and maintaining good hygiene. Provide emotional support and assist with dressing, washing, and personal care as needed.
  • Leisure and social activities: Encourage participation in indoor activities (like cooking and crafting) and outdoor activities (like walks, horse riding, or swimming). Be ready to join in! You'll also support individuals on day trips, holidays, or outings for coffee, helping them stay connected with the local community.
  • Daily living skills: Assist with tasks like attending appointments, shopping, and cleaning, promoting independence wherever possible.
  • Safeguarding: Advocate for individuals rights, ensuring their safety and dignity, and protecting them from abuse or exploitation.
  • Administration duties: Take responsibility for tasks such as dispensing and recording medicines and maintaining accurate records and reports, always adhering to current legislation and care standards.

Leadership responsibilities
  • Organise your workload to meet targets and deadlines.
  • Work dynamically with other senior staff members to manage and organise the team, fostering a collaborative approach.
  • Conduct staff supervisions, lead shifts, and ensure placement plans, policies, procedures, risk assessments, and rotas are implemented and followed.
  • Provide clear direction and support to the team while maintaining positive relationships with the residents.
  • Build and nurture positive relationships with the residents, meeting their needs, and safeguarding their wellbeing.

Requirements


  • Experience: Previous experience in a leadership or senior support role, especially supporting adults with learning disabilities and challenging behaviour, is desirable but not essential, as full training and support will be provided.
  • Leadership and Teamwork: Ability to lead and work collaboratively with the senior team while providing guidance and support to staff members.
  • Reliability and Compassion: Dependable, patient, and committed to delivering high-quality care, with a focus on safeguarding and promoting residents' well-being.
  • Organisation and Independence: Strong organisational skills to manage your workload and ensure team targets are achieved.
  • Good Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for documentation, team discussions, and liaising with stakeholders.
  • Driver with UK Licence: A full UK driving licence to facilitate outings for the people we support.
  • Overseas Applicants: All applicants must hold a valid working visa. We do not offer support with visa or location sponsorships.
  • DBS Checks: Willingness to complete an Enhanced Adult DBS Check.

What can we offer you


  • Free DBS check and access to the DBS update service.
  • Holiday pay and 29 day’s holiday pro-rata (includes 8 bank holidays plus an extra day’s leave for your birthday).
  • Time and a half paid for bank holiday shifts.
  • Flexible hours and a variety of shifts available.
  • Every other weekend off with a predictable shift pattern allowing you to plan your free time.
  • A contributory pension scheme.
  • Access to a national retail and leisure discount scheme (Blue Light Card).
  • Access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
  • Casual dress.
  • Career development and free training provided including fully funded apprenticeship opportunities up to Level 5 in Leadership and Management giving you a clear pathway into a management role (dependent on achieving your targets).
  • Refer a friend bonus of £150 on successful recruitment plus an additional £250 if they successfully pass their probationary period.

How to Apply

If you feel this role is for you, we want to hear from you!

You can apply for this role by completing our online application form here.

You can also please contact us by completing our contact form or emailing HR@ark-project.org.uk. We can then get in touch to discuss the role, the hours and answer any further questions you may have.