You can make a difference as a
Disability Support Worker
When you provide respite, in-home, community access support work, or if you have in the past, you are providing the work of a Disability Support Worker.
Making a difference to another person’s quality of life is one of the most rewarding things a person can do, and that’s something Disability Support Workers do every day. As well as being part of an industry that makes a difference to people’s lives there are other benefits such as:
- Variety – each day is different to the next
- Work-life balance – the hours vary so can be arranged to suit your schedule
- Challenge – yhe work is not always easy, but the rewards are attractive, and it will bring out the best in you
THE TYPE OF WORK YOU COULD BE DOING
The level of assistance you’d be providing always depends on the ability and health of the individual you’re looking after, but generally a disability worker gives personal, physical, and emotional support to a person who has an intellectual disability on a daily basis.
A ‘DAY IN THE LIFE’ OF A DISABILITY SUPPORT WORKING COULD INVOLVE:
- Helping an individual develop skills and abilities so they are more able to make decisions affecting their lives and live as independently as possible and participate in the community;
- Facilitating outings and other social activities;
- Performing various household tasks including planning menus, cooking and serving meals, cleaning, shopping, and general services;
- Providing companionship and support during daily activities;
- Helping people with an intellectual disability to maintain contact with their family, friends and advocates;
- Helping individuals develop and maintain independence and safety in personal care, health care and hygiene.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICIATIONS NEEDED
Having some knowledge of the industry in advance can help you prepare, and having the right attitude is essential. When working with a person who has an intellectual disability, it’s important to see them as valued individuals who have an abundance of capabilities and provide encouragement to help them achieve their full potential.
You must have a clean Criminal Records’ Check because you will be working with a individuals from a vulnerable population, and having First Aid and/or CPR certification is seen as an asset.