Support Worker/Befriender - Sherburn

Mencap; Gateshead; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

A charitable organization in Gateshead is seeking a passionate Support Worker/Befriender for a part-time role, providing support to individuals with learning disabilities. Responsibilities include daily support, enhancing independence, and assisting with medical appointments. Ideal candidates will possess excellent communication skills, flexibility, and empathy. A driving license is essential. The position offers flexibility in work hours and ongoing training.

Benefits

Flexibility to work hours of choice

Annual leave entitlement

Ongoing training and development

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• Genuine passion for supporting others.
• Ability to build meaningful relationships.
• Must have a full valid driving license.

Responsibilities

• Provide practical and social support to individuals with learning disabilities.
• Support to increase confidence on public transport.
• Attend medical appointments and collect medication.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Flexibility to work various shifts

Empathetic attitude towards individuals with learning disabilities

Job description

Overview

Mencap are seeking a Support Worker/Befriender to work with two ladies in the Sherburn area of County Durham, supporting them for 4 hours per week (total of 8 hours per week). Local candidates are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily practical and social support to individuals with learning disabilities, including shopping, Household chores, cooking, day trips, and attending social groups.
• Support to increase confidence on public transport and promote independence.
• Attend medical appointments and collect medication as needed.
• Work with other people supported in the area and, where appropriate, take on additional shifts discussed at interview.

Note: A full valid driving licence is essential due to the nature of the role.

What we're looking for

• A genuine passion for supporting others.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build meaningful relationships.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• A positive and empathetic attitude towards individuals with learning disabilities.

Contract options

• Contract - Part-time 8 hours per week with potential for more, to be discussed at interview.

Other: All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and suitable references.

We are an equitable, diverse and inclusive organisation and we particularly welcome and encourage disabled applicants and those from Black and Asian communities, as they are under-represented within the workforce.

Benefits

• Flexibility to work the hours you choose.
• Annual leave entitlement based on hours accrued.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance your skills.
• A supportive and inclusive work environment where your contributions are valued.

About Mencap

• Our vision is for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.
• We support people with a learning disability, their families and carers, and advocate for a kinder, fairer and more inclusive society.
• Belonging at Mencap is for everyone, every day, everywhere.
• We strive for an inclusive organisation where everyone is treated well and feels respected, valued, and safe to be themselves.

We have Belonging network groups that meet online and are open to all colleagues. Groups include people who identify as Black and Asian, LGBTQIA+, disabled or with a long-term health condition, women, parents and carers, and allies. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and offer a variety of contract types and working patterns. Training and development will be provided to succeed in the role.