Job Description

Job Title:

Support Worker (1:1, 24-Hour Mental Health Support)

Location:

Client's Home

Reports to:

Team Leader / Service Manager

Hours:

Full-time - 4 on / 4 off Rota (12-hour shifts: days or nights)

Job Purpose:

To provide consistent, person-centered 1:1 support for an individual with a complex and significant history of mental health difficulties transitioning from an inpatient psychiatric ward into the community.
This role focuses on maintaining safety, promoting stability, and supporting recovery, while encouraging independence, dignity, and quality of life.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Direct Support & Daily Living

Deliver 1:1 support as part of a 24-hour care plan, following a structured 4 on / 4 off shift pattern. Work 12-hour shifts (day or night), with the option of mixed or fixed shifts depending on service needs and staff preference. Support the client with daily living tasks such as medication prompts, meal preparation, and maintaining their home environment. Encourage participation in meaningful activities, routines, and community engagement to promote recovery and wellbeing. Empower the client to develop independence and life skills at their own pace.

2. Emotional & Therapeutic Support

Build and maintain a therapeutic relationship while observing professional boundaries. Use trauma-informed, recovery-focused, and de-escalation techniques to manage distress or challenging behaviour. Provide emotional reassurance, promoting coping strategies and self-management. Support attendance at appointments, therapy, and community activities.

3. Risk Management & Safeguarding

Monitor and report changes in mental state, risk factors, or behaviour promptly to the management team and care professionals. Follow the client's individual care and risk management plan, adhering to safeguarding, confidentiality, and health & safety policies. Respond appropriately to incidents, following established procedures and ensuring accurate documentation. Maintain a safe and supportive environment for the client and staff team.

4. Communication & Teamwork

Work closely with mental health professionals, social workers, and family members to ensure coordinated care. Participate in regular handovers, team meetings, and supervision sessions. Maintain clear and accurate written and verbal communication. Contribute to a supportive and consistent staff team culture.

5. Professional Standards

Uphold company values and regulatory standards, ensuring dignity, respect, and empowerment in all aspects of support. Maintain confidentiality and adhere to data protection guidelines. Participate in ongoing training, reflective practice, and professional development. Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion within the service.

Essential Skills & Experience:

Experience supporting people with complex mental health needs, personality disorders, or challenging behaviour. Knowledge of recovery-focused and trauma-informed support approaches. Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure, including in crisis situations. Reliable, compassionate, and professional with strong communication skills. Ability to work both independently and as part of a small, consistent team.

Desirable:

NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Health & Social Care (or equivalent qualification). Training in MAPA / PMVA / de-escalation or similar crisis intervention techniques. Experience supporting individuals with forensic or secure backgrounds. Valid driving licence.

Shift Pattern:

4 on / 4 off rota

(12-hour shifts). Option for

mixed days and nights

, or

set day or night shifts

depending on service needs and staff preference. Includes weekends and bank holidays on a rolling basis.

Additional Information:

Full induction and ongoing training provided. Regular supervision and reflective practice sessions to support wellbeing and professional growth. Consistency, reliability, and teamwork are essential to ensure a safe and stable transition for the client from hospital to community living.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 15.10 per hour

Expected hours: 44 per week

Work Location: In person