To provide dedicated, person-centered support to young adults in a Swindon-based supported living setting, helping them transition to independent living. The Support Worker will foster safety, stability, and personal growth by promoting education, employment, and essential life skills, aligning with the aims of creating a supportive environment for young people, as outlined in frameworks like MMR Supported Accommodation.
Key Responsibilities
Individualized Support
Serve as a key worker for assigned young adults, creating and implementing personalized support plans tailored to their goals (e.g., education, career, or independent living skills).
Conduct weekly one-on-one sessions and daily check-ins to monitor progress, offer guidance, and address challenges such as budgeting, mental health, or tenancy skills.
Advocate for residents' rights, ensuring they feel safe, valued, and respected in line with Swindon's safeguarding and care standards.
Promoting Education, Employment, and Life Skills
Support young adults in accessing education and training opportunities in Swindon, such as enrolling in local colleges (e.g., New College Swindon or Cirencester College) or vocational programs.
Facilitate employment readiness through workshops on CV writing, interview skills, and job applications, collaborating with local organizations like Swindon Jobcentre Plus or community partners.
Teach practical life skills, including budgeting, meal planning, cooking, and household management, through hands-on guidance and structured workshops.
Safeguarding and Well-being
Maintain a safe and secure living environment by enforcing house rules (e.g., no drugs, alcohol, or weapons) and conducting safety briefings, such as fire safety procedures.
Address safeguarding concerns promptly, working with Swindon's Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) and other agencies to protect residents.
Support emotional and physical well-being by connecting young adults to local mental health services (e.g., Swindon Mind or NHS Talking Therapies) and substance misuse programs.
Community Engagement and Activities
Organize and encourage participation in monthly workshops covering topics like financial literacy, mental health, and anti-violence, potentially partnering with local Swindon organizations such as Swindon Borough Council's youth services or charities like The Harbour Project.
Facilitate residents' meetings to empower young adults to shape their living experience and build peer relationships.
Arrange social activities (e.g., local sports clubs, community events at Lydiard Park, or cultural outings in Swindon) to promote social inclusion and confidence.
Partnership Working
Collaborate with Swindon-based social workers, families, and external agencies (e.g., Swindon's Children's Services, Centrepoint, or Shelter) to ensure holistic support for residents.
Assist with transition planning, preparing young adults for independent housing in Swindon or beyond, using resources like Swindon Borough Council's housing services.
Maintain accurate records of support plans, progress, and incidents, adhering to Ofsted and local regulatory standards.
Person Specification
Qualifications and Experience
Essential: Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (or equivalent) or willingness to work toward it.
Desirable: Experience working with young adults in supported accommodation, care, or youth services in Swindon or similar settings.
Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and Ofsted regulations (e.g., URN 2797343 standards, as per MMR).
Skills and Abilities
Strong communication and interpersonal skills to build trust with young adults.
Ability to deliver practical support in education, employment, and life skills (e.g., budgeting, cooking).
Competence in crisis management and de-escalation, particularly for mental health or safeguarding issues.
Familiarity with Swindon's local resources, such as educational institutions, job centers, and support services.
Personal Attributes
Empathetic, patient, and committed to fostering independence and aspiration.
Respectful of diverse cultural, racial, and personal identities, aligning with MMR's equal opportunities ethos.
Flexible and adaptable to work in a dynamic, resident-focused environment.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: From 12.40 per hour
Expected hours: 20 - 50 per week
Education:
A-Level or equivalent (preferred)
Experience:
Health and social care: 1 year (preferred)
Language:
English (preferred)
Work authorisation:
United Kingdom (preferred)
Work Location: In person