What is a Support Worker and how do you become one?

What is a Support Worker?

A Support Worker looks after the well-being of vulnerable individuals, helping them to live their everyday lives as independently as possible. Support workers act as an aid of emotional and physical support to ensure that individuals are given the opportunity to reach their full potential and are able to have the have the best quality of life possible.

What are the responsibilities of a Support Worker?

• Teaching individuals’ important life skills that can increase their independence
• Analysing an individual’s needs and creating a focused support plan 
• Being available to individuals and their families to provide emotional support
• Helping an individual with their health care needs
• Supporting individuals to pursue their hobbies and interests
•  Acting as a role model and companion
• Encouraging and helping individuals to develop their use of personal skills
• Helping individuals to access community facilities and groups
• Working with significant people in the individual’s life to discuss their care

Why become a Support Worker?

Being a Support Worker can be a challenging but an exceedingly rewarding role, as you work with individuals to change and adapt their lives for the better. Support Workers build transformative relationships with individuals that can have a truly long lasting and beneficial effect. Everyday brings variety, as you connect and interact with new people, creating exciting opportunities and experiences. As well as this, Support Work can provide a sense of career security. Social care is a fast-growing sector, with opportunities for career progression into more senior and managerial positions. You will have the opportunity to build a rewarding, and lost-lasting, career in social care using your transferable skills and knowledge.

‍What skills are needed to be a Support Worker?

• Good listening ability
• High level of patience
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability to build positive relationships with individuals and their families
• An interest in helping individuals to reach their full potential
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
•  Ability to remain calm in stressful and challenging situations
• Non-judgemental attitude
• Ability to work well as part of a team and individually

What qualifications are needed to become a Support Worker?

No specific qualifications are required to become a Support Worker. Employers often look for experience in a similar role, however this is not essential. When starting a Support Worker role, employers will typically provide lots of training opportunities which will give you an in-depth insight into what the role involves, as well as a generalised overview on the responsibilities, giving you the chance to expand on your current skills and knowledge.

How much is a Support Worker paid?

Salaries for a Support Worker vary on a number of different factors, such as location and local authorities. However, on average Support Workers can expect to earn anything from £18,000 - £24,000 per year.

Becoming a Support Worker, you have the opportunity to make a real difference in someone’s life. The feeling of accomplishment is what makes this job so rewarding. If you are looking for your next Support Worker role, do not hesitate to get in contact with us today. Call us on 01473 939670to discuss the current Support Worker positions that we have available, and we could help you find your next role today.