Community Support Worker (Mental Health Focus)

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 100,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a dedicated Community Support Worker to provide direct support to individuals and families in the community. You will empower clients to achieve greater independence and collaborate with other professionals to deliver holistic care, upholding empathy, respect and ethical practice.

The role involves assessments, home visits, facilitating access to services, group activities, and careful documentation.

Qualifications

• Experience in community-based support for vulnerable individuals or families.
• Excellent communication and active listening skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in maintaining client records and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct initial assessments of client needs and develop personalized support plans.
• Provide emotional support, practical assistance, and guidance to clients in homes and community settings.
• Facilitate access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
• Monitor client progress and regularly update support plans.
• Liaise with families, social workers, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to ensure integrated care.
• Organize and lead group activities and community outreach programs.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records per policy.
• Respond to crisis situations with immediate support.
• Promote client independence and self-advocacy.

Skills

Communication

Active listening

Interpersonal skills

Independent work

Teamwork

Documentation

Education

Relevant qualification in Social Work/ Psychology/ Community Development

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Community Support Worker to join their expanding team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This vital role involves providing direct support and assistance to individuals and families within the community, focusing on those facing social and personal challenges. You will be instrumental in empowering clients to achieve greater independence and improve their overall well-being. This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable populations, working collaboratively with other professionals to deliver comprehensive care. The role requires a proactive approach, excellent interpersonal skills, and a genuine commitment to social justice and community development. You will operate within a supportive team environment, receiving ongoing training and supervision to ensure you can perform your duties effectively and ethically. The successful candidate will embody the values of empathy, respect, and resilience, acting as a trusted advocate for clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Conducting initial assessments of client needs and developing personalized support plans.
• Providing emotional support, practical assistance, and guidance to clients in their homes and community settings.
• Facilitating access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
• Monitoring client progress and regularly reviewing and updating support plans as needed.
• Liaising with families, social workers, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to ensure integrated care.
• Organizing and leading group activities and community outreach programs.
• Maintaining accurate and confidential client records in line with organizational policies.
• Responding to crisis situations and providing immediate support.
• Promoting client independence and self-advocacy.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Community Development, or a related field is highly desirable.
• Proven experience working in a community-based support role, preferably with vulnerable individuals or families.
• Strong understanding of social issues, mental health challenges, and relevant support systems.
• Excellent communication, active listening, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in maintaining client records and documentation.
• Valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle for community visits in and around Pietermaritzburg.
• A non-judgmental attitude and a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion.
• Willingness to undergo background checks.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a provident fund and comprehensive medical aid options. You will benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, regular supervision, and a supportive work environment. This role provides a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth while making a significant positive impact on the Pietermaritzburg community. Paid leave and opportunities for advancement within the organization are also provided.