To provide person-centred, trauma-informed support to clients with a complex history of mental health needs, safeguarding risks, and vulnerability to exploitation. The role involves delivering consistent and compassionate care that promotes safety, emotional wellbeing, and independent living skills in line with client care and support plan and Mental Health Act Section 117 aftercare requirements.

Key Responsibilities

1. Direct Support & Supervision

• Provide in-house support and 1:1 or 2:1 community support, as directed by the care plan.
• Supervise community access within agreed timeframes and parameters, ensuring client safety, especially around known risks (e.g., substance misuse, sexual exploitation, and inappropriate associations).
• Support client to safely manage personal care, maintain hygiene, and make appropriate choices regarding clothing and presentation.

2. Mental Health Monitoring & Medication Support

• Observe and report changes in mood, behaviour, or signs of psychosis (e.g., hallucinations, paranoia).
• Monitor medication adherence and side effects in line with clinical advice.
• Maintain accurate medication records and report concerns promptly to the care team.

3. Promoting Independence

• Assist client with budgeting, meal planning, and healthy nutrition, reducing over-reliance on takeaways.
• Help manage and maintain her living environment, supporting daily chores such as laundry and room tidiness.
• Encourage client participation in college, music programmes, and other purposeful activities where required.

4. Safeguarding & Risk Management

• Apply trauma-informed and PBS (Positive Behaviour Support) principles to de-escalate challenging behaviour.
• Adhere to Court of Protection directives, community DOLS restrictions, and safeguarding protocols where required.
• Participate in emergency planning (e.g., AWOL protocol, use of restraint only as a last resort).

5. Relationship Building & Advocacy

• Build therapeutic rapport with client based on consistency, empathy, and respect.
• Facilitate safe family contact (e.g., overnight stays with mother/father) and escort as required.
• Work closely with client professional network including mental health teams, personal advisors, and social workers.

Person Specification Essential

• Experience supporting individuals with mental health conditions, trauma, and/or risk of exploitation.
• Knowledge of Section 117 MHA Aftercare, Community DOLS, and safeguarding in supported living.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Emotional resilience and ability to manage challenging behaviours compassionately.
• Enhanced DBS check (adults) and eligibility to work in the UK.

Desirable

• Level 2 or 3 in Health & Social Care (or working towards).
• Training in Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), trauma-informed care, or MAPA/PMVA.
• Familiarity with substance misuse risks and psycho-social interventions.

Additional Information

• This role may require evening/weekend work, sleep-ins, and lone working where appropriate.
• Training and ongoing supervision will be provided.
• Regular reviews and care plan updates will inform practice adjustments.

How to Apply:

Please submit a CV and covering statement detailing your relevant experience and passion for supporting individuals with complex needs. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a panel interview and scenario-based assessment.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: £13.00 per hour

Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• 12 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Every weekend
• Monday to Friday
• Night shift
• Weekends only

Experience:

• mental health: 2 years (required)

Licence/Certification:

• NVQ Level 2 Health & Social Care (preferred)

Work Location: In person

Reference ID: LDSPU001