Disability Support Officer - Empowerment Programs

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 300,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Disability Support Officer to empower individuals with disabilities in Richards Bay. The role focuses on providing tailored support, facilitating access to resources, and advocating for client rights to promote independence.

You will work with a multidisciplinary team, travel locally, and contribute to a community-based program that values inclusion and dignity for diverse needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level or diploma in social services or related field.
• Strong communication and advocacy abilities.
• Experience working with people with disabilities is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop individualized support plans with clients, families and professionals.
• Provide direct support with daily living activities and community participation.
• Facilitate access to educational, vocational and recreational opportunities.
• Advocate for clients' rights across service systems and settings.
• Organize group activities to foster inclusion and peer support.
• Monitor progress and document changes.

Skills

Communication

Advocacy

Interpersonal

Case management

Education

Social Work / related degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading organization committed to inclusive community practices, is seeking a dedicated Disability Support Officer to join their dynamic team in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**. This role is integral to empowering individuals with disabilities to live fulfilling and independent lives. You will be responsible for providing tailored support, facilitating access to resources, and advocating for the rights of clients. The successful candidate will possess a strong understanding of disability services, a compassionate approach, and the ability to foster independence and inclusion within the **Richards Bay** community. This is an opportunity to contribute significantly to the well-being and social integration of individuals with diverse needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized support plans in collaboration with clients, families, and relevant professionals.


• Provide direct support to individuals with disabilities, assisting with daily living activities, personal care, and community participation.


• Facilitate access to educational, vocational, and recreational opportunities.


• Advocate for clients' rights and needs within various service systems and community settings.


• Organize and facilitate group activities and social events aimed at fostering inclusion and peer support.


• Monitor client progress and well-being, documenting observations and reporting any significant changes.


• Liaise with healthcare providers, therapists, and other support networks to ensure a coordinated approach to care.


• Provide training and support to families and caregivers on relevant disability issues and support strategies.


• Assist clients in developing life skills and promoting independence.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and organizational policies related to disability services.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Degree in Social Work, Community Development, Occupational Therapy, or a related field.


• Minimum of 3 years' experience working directly with individuals with disabilities.


• Solid understanding of the diverse needs and challenges faced by people with disabilities in **KwaZulu-Natal**.


• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement person-centered support plans.


• Excellent communication, advocacy, and interpersonal skills.


• Proficiency in case management and reporting.


• Empathy, patience, and a commitment to promoting dignity and inclusion.


• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team and independently.


• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel locally within the **Richards Bay** area.


• Knowledge of assistive technologies and adaptive equipment is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. Professional development opportunities, including specialized training in disability support, are provided. You will be part of a supportive and mission-driven organization dedicated to making a tangible difference in **Richards Bay**. This role offers immense personal reward and the chance to grow your career in a field that truly matters.