Community Support Specialist - Elderly Care

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Supportive team environment

Social impact

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a compassionate Community Support Specialist in Midrand, Gauteng. The role focuses on coordinating services, providing emotional support, and promoting independence for elderly clients.

You will collaborate with healthcare professionals and social workers to ensure integrated care and advocate for client needs. The position emphasizes person-centered care, strong communication, and engagement with community resources.

Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Community Development, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years' experience in community or social care, elderly.
• Strong understanding of geriatric care needs.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and active listening skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in Midrand, Gauteng.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and case management software.
• Valid driver's license and own reliable vehicle.
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine passion for supporting vulnerable populations.
• Knowledge of local community resources and support networks.

Responsibilities

• Assess the needs of elderly clients and develop tailored support plans.
• Coordinate and facilitate access to community services, including healthcare appointments, social activities, and transportation.
• Provide direct emotional and practical support to clients and their families.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records, documenting all interactions and progress.
• Liaise with healthcare professionals, social workers, and other stakeholders to ensure integrated care.
• Organize and lead community engagement activities aimed at reducing isolation and promoting social interaction among seniors.
• Advocate for clients' rights and needs within the healthcare and social service systems.
• Respond to client emergencies and provide immediate assistance as required.
• Participate in regular team meetings and professional development training.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Empathy

Active listening

Community engagement

Driver's license

Education

Social Work degree

Tools

Case management software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading provider of comprehensive care services, is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Community Support Specialist to join their dynamic team in Midrand, Gauteng. This role is crucial in enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable individuals within the community, focusing on elderly care and support. You will be instrumental in coordinating services, offering emotional support, and facilitating access to essential resources. This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference in people's lives by promoting independence and well-being. The ideal candidate will possess strong interpersonal skills, a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the elderly, and a commitment to providing person-centered care. Your contribution will directly impact the positive experiences of clients under our client's care. The team thrives on collaboration and mutual support, ensuring a positive working environment for all members.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess the needs of elderly clients and develop tailored support plans.
• Coordinate and facilitate access to community services, including healthcare appointments, social activities, and transportation.
• Provide direct emotional and practical support to clients and their families.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records, documenting all interactions and progress.
• Liaise with healthcare professionals, social workers, and other stakeholders to ensure integrated care.
• Organize and lead community engagement activities aimed at reducing isolation and promoting social interaction among seniors.
• Advocate for clients' rights and needs within the healthcare and social service systems.
• Respond to client emergencies and provide immediate assistance as required.
• Participate in regular team meetings and professional development training.

Requirements

• Relevant qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Community Development, or a related field.
• Proven experience (minimum 3 years) working within the community or social care sector, specifically with the elderly.
• Strong understanding of geriatric care needs and challenges.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and active listening skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in Midrand, Gauteng.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and case management software.
• Valid driver's license and own reliable vehicle.
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine passion for supporting vulnerable populations.
• Knowledge of local community resources and support networks.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work with a reputable organization dedicated to community welfare.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Supportive team environment.
• Contribution to meaningful social impact.