Buddy/Support Worker – Rochford

Are you looking for a new role which will be fulfilling and fundamental in enabling a young adult Client to develop his confidence and independence while supporting him to access his many interests and hobbies? If so, we have the perfect role for you.

The Client

Kieron is an active 24 year old young man who lives in the family home with his mum and two sisters. Kieron suffered a brain injury at birth which has resulted in cerebral palsy affecting both his gross and fine motor skills as well as causing significant fatigue at times. As a result, Kieren requires support and assistance with certain activities and when accessing the local community.

One of Kieron’s particular challenges is in engaging with others in social situations due to low confidence, especially in unfamiliar surroundings or with people he doesn’t know. That said, he aspires to enjoy the same social situations and environments as other people of his age and is keen to develop his independence away from his close family unit.

Hobbies & Interests

Kieron has many interests including archery, gaming, dog walking and reading. He attends weekly judo and self-defence classes and is currently considering learning to drive. Kieron also has a passion for travel with a growing interest in campaign and bushcraft skills.

The Role

We are looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Buddy/Support Worker to work on a one-toone basis with Kieron to help him develop his confidence and independence away from his immediate family. This role will suit a fit and energetic individual who will actively engage with Kieron, joining in with his interests and activities. You should have experience of working with individuals with brain injury and understand how to work within the confines of the challenges this presents. The successful applicant would ideally have some experience of working cohesively with a team of therapists, implementing the specialist programmes they have developed for Kieron.

The successful candidate should have excellent verbal and written communication skills. You should be able to support Kieron in home-based activities which will include helping him to his days, money management and cooking. Outside of the home, you will be required to physically support Kieron to enable him to access and participate in all of his sport and leisure activities.

It is desirable but not essential that you will hold a full, clean UK driving licence and have your own vehicle to transport Kieron to his various activities and on outings which will include evening and weekend activities, day trips, short breaks and holidays. It is essential that you are able to offer flexibility around your hours of work to allow for Kieron’s expanding schedule.

You should have an understanding of the need to maintain professional boundaries and privacy within a private family home. You will need to provide trustworthy and reliable support to Kieron, working with him as he develops his confidence, helping him to make informed and safe choices.

Rates of Pay

Monday to Friday: £15.00 per hour
Saturday & Sunday: £16.00 per hour
Bank Holidays: 1.5 times usual weekday hourly rate

Hours of Work

We are looking for a Buddy/Support Worker to work 24 hours per week, as follows:
Monday & Thursday: 18:00 – 22:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 15:00

The additional 10 hours will be worked flexibly in line with the Client’s needs and agreed with a minimum of two weeks advance notice.

If you are interested in this role and feel you have skills, experience, enthusiasm and interest to enable Kieron to access and enjoy his social and leisure activities, please apply with a copy of your CV in the first instance.

Reference: CTE/KS001