Senior Community Support Worker - Aged Care Specialist

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Training programs

Employee Assistance Program

Retirement fund

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg is seeking a Senior Community Support Worker with an aged care specialization. You will lead a team delivering person-centered home and community-based care to elderly clients, coordinating with families and healthcare partners to ensure safety and dignity.

The role emphasizes assessment, care planning, direct care, documentation, and ongoing professional development within a supportive team environment in KwaZulu-Natal.

Qualifications

• Qualification in Community Services, Social Work, Nursing, or related field (NQF 4+).
• 3–5 years in community or aged care; at least 1 year in supervision.
• Understanding of person-centered care in aged care.
• Excellent communication and active listening abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of community support workers.
• Conduct comprehensive needs assessments for elderly clients.
• Deliver direct care including personal hygiene, medication reminders, meals, and mobility support.
• Monitor client well‑being and report concerns to healthcare professionals or families.
• Facilitate social engagement and activities to promote health and reduce isolation.
• Maintain accurate client records and document observations.
• Liaise with families, healthcare providers, and stakeholders for coordinated care.
• Uphold dignity, privacy, and confidentiality of clients.
• Ensure compliance with policies, procedures and regulatory standards.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development.

Skills

Team leadership

Communication

Needs assessments

Care planning

Active listening

Documentation

Education

NQF 4+ in Community Services, Social Work, Nursing, or related field

Tools

Electronic record-keeping systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of community and social care services in Pietermaritzburg , KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a compassionate and experienced Senior Community Support Worker with a specialization in aged care. This pivotal role involves leading a team of dedicated support staff, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, person-centered care to elderly individuals within their homes and community settings. The successful candidate will play a crucial part in enhancing the quality of life for our clients, promoting independence, and providing essential emotional and practical support. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact in a growing and respected organization, contributing to a positive and supportive environment for both clients and staff. The position is based in the vibrant city of Pietermaritzburg , offering a chance to work within a dynamic local community and contribute to its well-being. We are committed to fostering a professional and rewarding work environment for all our employees.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of community support workers, providing guidance and supervision to ensure optimal performance and adherence to best practices.
• Conduct comprehensive needs assessments for elderly clients, developing and implementing individualized care plans.
• Deliver direct care and support services, including personal hygiene assistance, medication reminders, meal preparation, and mobility support.
• Monitor clients' well-being, identifying changes in condition and reporting concerns to relevant healthcare professionals or family members.
• Facilitate social engagement and recreational activities to combat isolation and promote mental and physical health.
• Maintain accurate and detailed client records, documenting care provided and any significant observations.
• Liaise with families, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care.
• Uphold the dignity, privacy, and confidentiality of all clients at all times.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development activities.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Community Services, Social Work, Nursing, or a related field (e.g., NQF Level 4 or higher).
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a community or aged care support role, with at least 1 year in a supervisory or senior capacity.
• Demonstrated understanding of the principles of person-centered care and best practices in aged care.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and active listening skills.
• Strong assessment, care planning, and report-writing abilities.
• Proficiency in using electronic record-keeping systems.
• A valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle for community visits within Pietermaritzburg and surrounding areas.
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Willingness to undergo background checks and provide references.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary reflecting your experience and qualifications.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within a reputable organization.
• Comprehensive training programs and continuous professional development support.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment dedicated to making a difference.
• Employee Assistance Program offering confidential counseling and support services.
• Contribution to a retirement fund as per company policy.
• Annual leave entitlement and other statutory benefits.

The satisfaction of providing essential care and support to the elderly in the Pietermaritzburg community.