Specialist Support Worker

  • South East London
  • Contract
  • Tue Feb 24 09:30:28 2026
  • J13566

Main Duties & Responsibilities

Resident Support

  • Act as a key worker for an allocated caseload of residents.
  • Provide empathetic, respectful support and challenge discrimination, negative stereotypes, or poor practice.
  • Support residents to engage in social, educational, and leisure activities that promote wellbeing.
  • Work collaboratively with residents to create and review person‑centred support plans, action plans, and SMART goals.
  • Encourage residents to maintain clean and safe living environments.
  • Carry out wellbeing checks and ensure the safety and security of the building during day and night shifts.
  • Monitor medication compliance and report any concerns to healthcare providers.

Safety & Safeguarding

  • Recognise and report signs of abuse, neglect, or safeguarding concerns in line with policy and legislation.
  • Ensure only authorised individuals enter the building and respond to emergencies according to procedures.

Teamwork & Service Delivery

  • Participate in duty rotas that meet the needs of the service.
  • Work in partnership with external professionals and agencies.
  • Contribute to maintaining a clean, safe, high‑quality service environment (may include basic domestic tasks and simple catering support).
  • Lone working may be required at smaller units, with access to on‑call support.

Administration & Record Keeping

  • Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records, including support plans, risk assessments, incident reports, and electronic notes.
  • Work in line with relevant legislation such as the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, Mental Health Act, Data Protection Act 2018, and safeguarding policies.
  • Ensure all complaints are managed in accordance with policy.

Training & Professionalism

  • Complete full induction and mandatory training, including safeguarding, GDPR, fire safety, health & safety, and equality & diversity.
  • Attend staff meetings, supervisions, and residents’ meetings as required.
  • Maintain confidentiality and present yourself professionally at all times.

Person Specification

Essential

  • Educated to GCSE level or equivalent.
  • Experience supporting individuals with mental health needs and/or challenging behaviour.
  • Ability to write accurate reports and communicate effectively with residents, colleagues, and external agencies.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Understanding of safeguarding, equality & diversity, and professional boundaries.
  • Basic IT skills for record‑keeping.

Desirable

  • Health & Social Care qualification (Level 2+).
  • Experience working in supported housing or a social care environment.
  • Experience supporting individuals with substance misuse or alcohol-related needs.
  • Ability to prepare basic meals when required.