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Job description

Kids Together Belfast is seeking a Support Worker to support children, young people and adults with disabilities. The successful candidate will provide person-centred support, assist with individual development programmes and encourage participation in activities that promote independence, inclusion and wellbeing. They will work closely with colleagues and families to ensure a safe, supportive and inclusive environment.

Responsibilities

• Work alongside the Programme Manager to ensure comprehensive assessment of each child, young person and young adult, monitoring their developmental milestones while accessing services of Kids Together.
• Ensuring an individualised centred support programme for all service users.
• Engage in a specific individualised programme of support for children, young people and adults accessing services of Kids Together.
• Support quality care initiatives such as ensuring user participation at group sessions, (e.g. after school Club, Youth Club, Time for Me project and Transitional Learning Centre).
• Work closely with colleagues in the multidisciplinary team to ensure a comprehensive and seamless support service for children, young people, young adults and their families.
• Assist in the procedures for assessing, monitoring and evaluating all programmes offered by Kids Together.
• Participate in the development of mechanisms to reach/support isolated children, young people and adults with disabilities in the community.
• Ensure a working knowledge of and act within the Kids Together guidance for ‘Safeguarding Children and Adults at risk of harm.
• Communicate effectively and sensitively with children, young people and young adults with disabilities and their families on a one-to-one basis or in groups.
• Maintain absolute integrity and confidentiality in relation to personal issues and care of children, young people and young adults with disabilities and their families supported by Kids Together and other associated groups/organisations.
• To adopt a flexible approach to working hours (including evenings and weekends) in order to deliver flexible support and care for all service users.
• Participate in appropriate training as directed by Kids Together and highlight own training needs in their Continued Personal Development Plan.
• Adopt a proactive approach in promoting Kids Together and activities relating to the programmes.
• Ensure adherence to all Kids Together policies and procedures.
• Represent Kids Together at relevant meetings/functions.
• Any other duties deemed necessary by the management of Kids Together Belfast.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Level 3 Childcare or level 3 Health & Social Care or Equivalent (or willing to obtain the qualification).
• At least 2 years’ experience working with children, young people or adults with a disability (voluntary or paid).
• A clear understanding of challenging and injurious behaviours displayed by children, young people or adults with disabilities.
• A clear understanding of Autism.
• Four GCSEs one of which must be English Language (or equivalent).
• Evidence of further training and qualifications relevant to the post.
• Ability to demonstrate communication skills both written and oral.
• Ability to demonstrate organisational skills.
• Ability to demonstrate proficient administration skills such as legible record keeping, including IT skills.

Desirable Skills

• Demonstrate a firm commitment to the inclusion and equality of people with disabilities.
• Demonstrate the ability to use your initiative.
• Experience of working in a team environment.
• Experience of working in a group situation with people with disabilities.
• Knowledge of the needs of volunteers and the ability to support them.

Application Information

Application forms can be requested through emailing: sinead.lorimer@kidstogetherbelfast.org Please note which post you are applying for. 18 hours per Week - Maternity Cover.