There is an advert doing the rounds on TV at the moment about recruitment in adult social care. I can’t find it anywhere online, so I have had to use the following video by Hampshire County Council to illustrate the positive aspects of a career as a support worker.
To work in social care, you need to be highly skilled in a number of areas, but sadly the current coronavirus crisis is highlighting the lack of support that is available. The advertisement mentioned above, is calling for people to apply through their respective local authority. However, I can assure you that there is better pay and conditions available through working for recipients of Direct Payments. I am one of these people, and I urge anyone willing to work on the front-line during these testing times, to read the advertisement below and consider building a new career.
***
Something needs to change, and it needs to happen now. I could be talking about a multitude of things that are in urgent need of society’s attention, though the tired old attitudes that I face from interviewees hoping to land a job in my professional organisation is getting ridiculous. I keep having to replicate the following job advert as it is attracting totally the wrong type of person who are trapped in a medical model of disability that patronises and undermines the independent living model that I am determined to create.
Having said all that, I think I can safely say – without blowing my own trumpet – that I am a good boss to work for. I enjoy a busy working/social life and often spend time out of the house, whether this is at the library, museum, meetings, conferences, concerts, meals out or enjoying time with friends. There are a vast array of other activities going on in my world and the PA that I am looking to employ would enjoy helping me to realise my independent ambitions in life.
***
I am STILL in search of new staff to work alongside me as a personal assistant. This is a fulfilling role that gives you the chance to make a difference to someone else’s life. I am looking for someone who is punctual, reliable, a team player and can be flexible. Word processing skills and a full driving licence are ABSOLUTELY essential to help me get the most out of my life.
There are between 16-30 hours available, though there is the potential for more hours to cover holidays and sickness. This is an ideal opportunity for a student looking to gain experience in social care sector or any empathetic individual who wants to put their time to good use.
If you are interested in this opportunity, or know someone who may be, please get in touch via the Contact page, Facebook or Twitter. Good luck.
***
Rate of Pay: Flat Rate: £9.80 per hour – Weekly Hours: To be discussed at interview.
About the employer:
I am a sociable 43-year-old man living in the Wrexham area. I use a wheelchair and live with Friedreich’s Ataxia which does not affect my intellect. Subsequently, I require support to remain independent. I am an author and disabled activist with a good sense of humour. I remain ambitious and adventurous. I enjoy company and I like to go out socialising.
Summary of duties:
| To provide support to access various social and recreational activities. You must therefore have a clean driving license. You will need to support with personal care, including toileting, washing, dressing and preparing meals. I am a very creative individual and require support to develop my ideas. Due to my poor dexterity I struggle to type quickly – as a writer this is most frustrating – therefore you should have good word-processing skills.A full driving license is also required as I often attend meetings throughout the North Wales and North West area.
Support with gardening and household tasks. The post will include 5.6 weeks paid annual leave (pro-rata) Police records check funded by the employer will be required. |
The person I am looking for:
| The ideal person will have a good sense of humour and should also display plenty of energy, initiative and enthusiasm. In addition, applicants should be patient and trustworthy with a flexible and empathetic attitude. A positive attitude and clear understanding of confidentiality is essential. Promoting my independence will be the main focus for any support. You must be reliable, friendly, flexible and punctual. |
Times Required:
There are specific hours available to be discussed at interview.
Holiday and Sickness Cover is also available regularly, so variable hours will be on offer.
