Support Worker

Southdown; Brighton; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A not-for-profit care provider in Brighton is seeking a compassionate Support Worker to assist adults with learning and physical disabilities. The role involves supporting daily living tasks and encouraging community engagement. Full training is given, making this opportunity suitable even for those without prior experience. Ideal candidates will have a patient approach and be willing to provide personal care. This position offers £12.96 per hour, 35 hours per week, and various perks including health insurance and paid holidays.

Benefits

Health cost cash-back scheme

Interest-free loans

Access to the Easit Network

Blue Light card discounts

Free advice and counselling service

22 days paid holiday plus bank holidays

Qualifications

• Completion of Southdown's training in health & social care, moving and handling.
• Willingness to support intimate and personal care needs.
• Enhanced DBS check (paid for by Southdown).

Responsibilities

• Encourage clients to connect with their community through activities.
• Support daily living tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and personal care.
• Help build clients' confidence and independence.

Skills

Patient, empathetic approach

Experience supporting people with disabilities

Experience handling challenging behaviour

Job description

Location: Southdown Road, Seaford

Salary: £12.96 per hour

Hours: 35 per week

Allowance: Unsociable hours uplift £4.40 extra per night shift

Who are we:

Southdown is a not-for-profit provider supporting 160 adults with learning and physical disabilities across Sussex. We run 23 supported living services and 4 residential care homes.

What you’ll be doing:

We’re seeking a compassionate and adaptable Support Worker to help individuals live independently and with dignity. Your role involves encouraging clients to connect with their community through activities such as walks, cinema, shopping and café visits, and supporting daily living tasks such as cooking, cleaning and personal care. You’ll help build clients’ confidence and independence through empowering care in a rewarding role where no two days are the same.

Previous experience in roles such as Health Care Assistant, Support Worker, Nurse or Mental Health Care Worker is welcome but not essential, as full training will be provided.

The best thing about my job is the clients. Getting to know them, getting to know their characters and just enjoying life with them’ – Karen, Southdown Support Worker.

Service Description:

Southdown Road is a large modern purpose-built care home in Seaford for 7 adults with complex health needs and learning disabilities.

Our clients are supported to lead active, fulfilling lives and to make the most of their local community while developing each client’s choice, control and independence.

You will be based at Southdown Road service but may be required to work at other locations as and when needed.

Perks and benefits:

• Health cost cash‑back scheme: access to our health insurance scheme covering dental, optical, physical therapies and other medical treatments, with the option to add greater levels of cover.
• Interest‑free loans: assistance with larger costs that arise such as tenancy deposits, season travel tickets or buying a car.
• Access to the Easit Network: discounts and incentives on train, bus and car journeys such as 15% off eligible daily and season rail tickets.
• Blue Light card: access to discount services for the social care sector with savings across thousands of online shops, restaurants and high‑street vendors.
• Free advice and counselling service: confidential emotional support and practical guidance from our independent telephone service.
• 22 days paid holiday plus bank holidays (or paid time in lieu for any bank holidays worked).

What you need for the role:

• A patient, empathetic approach
• Completion of Southdown’s training in health & social care, moving and handling, Positive Behaviour Support, safeguarding and health protocols
• Willingness to support intimate and personal care needs
• Enhanced DBS check (paid for by Southdown)

What would be nice:

• Experience supporting people with physical or cognitive disabilities, learning disabilities or mental health issues
• Experience handling challenging behaviour
• Knowledge of medication administration and record‑keeping
• Previous professional or personal care experience
• Familiarity with Makaton or other non‑verbal communication methods

Additional Requirements (sometimes needed):

• Physical ability to assist with mobility (e.g., pushing wheelchairs, supporting bathing) and participate in activities like long walks
• Due to the nature of care, the post may sometimes be restricted to applicants of a particular sex in line with the Equality Act 2010, depending on client needs

Training:

Full training is provided, so no prior experience is necessary. You’ll gain qualifications and develop your skills with the largest housing, care and support provider in Sussex.

How to apply:

Please click on the ‘Apply Now’ button and fill out our simple one‑page application form. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and an appointment may be made before the advertisement is closed if a suitable candidate is identified. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

About Southdown

We are a Disability Confident Employer and are fully committed to supporting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and welcome applications from all candidates that meet our job specifications. If you feel there is a barrier that potentially prevents you from applying, do get in contact with us, as we are always happy to discuss (or arrange a discussion with the recruiting manager) to explore if any reasonable adjustments can be made to support your application.

Contact information: Our online careers page has a list of helpful FAQs that you can view here. If you have any further questions, please get in touch with recruitment via email at [e-mail]