Finding the right support worker can have a big impact on your social, mental, and physical wellbeing. It’s important to take your time when searching for a new support worker and to be reassured that they will work well as a team with yourself, your family, and your other support networks.
Whether you’re searching for your very first support worker or looking to add another worker to your support team, we’ve put together 5 non-negotiables to help guide you on our support worker search.
1. Be clear in what support you need
Making sure expectations are clear for everyone is key to building a strong relationship with your support worker. Take some time to think about exactly what you want to get out of a support worker. Is it to do more social activities, or more help with housework? Maybe you’d like someone to help you build a certain skill or learn a new hobby, or maybe you’re just looking for someone to transport you to and from appointments. Whatever form of support you’re looking for, make sure to clearly explain this to your support worker candidate.
2. Discuss availability
Support workers often look after a few participants so it’s important to know if your schedules will align. How many days a week will you need care? Do you prefer morning or afternoons? And is there flexibility if circumstances change. You may also want to ask if they have other activities that may affect their availability like study or exams.
3. Check for qualifications and references
Checking for relevant qualifications and experience are important tick boxes to check. A support worker with a relevant qualification will have the knowledge to manage a range of situations and can provide a much better quality of care.
4. Knowledge
If you have specific challenges or needs it may be helpful to find a support worker who has a more advanced or specialised knowledge. For example if you’re looking for help to improve your physical activity, you may want to look for someone who has completed a certificate in fitness.
5. Think about diversifying your support team
Don’t think that you have to find all the skills and expertise in one single support worker. Sometimes it’s better to have a team of 2 or 3 support workers who can help you with different tasks. You might find one support worker who you enjoy going out to social activities with, and another one who is better organised for housework. If you are going to engage with multiple support workers, make sure to clearly communicate and define each worker’s responsibilities.
Real Community Services delivers high quality, knowledgeable and compassionate staff to support you, in your life’s journey. Where you can create your own pathway, free to make your own decisions… whether it’s learning a new skill, meeting new people, or trying new things, or perhaps help to prepare your food, bathe or general domestic duties, we love to work with you to help make these things happen!
With a brilliant team of disability support workers across Sunshine Coast, Greater Brisbane, Ipswich and the Gold Coast, we are there to help realise your goals to live a fulfilling life no matter your age.
As a Registered NDIS Provider, if you require assistance with daily living (in-Home) or support with social and community participation, connect with us today. Over the years, RCS has expanded its disability service capacity and dedicated to offer a wide range of tailor made and person-centred support programs. Contact us today on 1300 007 270 or via our contact form.