SENIOR DISABILITY SUPPORT WORKER (SIL)
About the Role:
We are a committed team, dedicated to providing tailored support, care and guidance to individuals with complex mental health needs, particularly those navigating challenges associated with having an intellectual impairment, ASD, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, coupled with self-harming and complex behaviors such as verbal and physical aggression.
We currently require the services of one (1) Senior Disability Support Worker who will lead one of our SIL houses in Mackay. The SSW will have knowledge and experience in working with people who have complex mental health needs; with a person-centered approach; and must have availability for a full-time permanent roster (generally on day shifts).
Responsibilities as a SSW you will:
- coach Support Workers and support best practice provision of disability services
- provide practical training, support and mentoring within your scope of practice
- carry out audits, induct new staff, participate in shadow shifts, respond to incidents, and fill shifts as needed
- must have good report writing and data collection methods; and the ability to follow formal processes for best practice
- model best practice service delivery with clients including person-centered, strengths-based approaches
- work directly with clients as rostered, providing and supporting others to provide personal care, transfer and positioning and delivery of all health supports, including medication administration and mealtime assistance, aligned with the individual’s care plans
- Working with the Quality, Risk & Compliance Officer to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our participants and employees
- Team management; working with the Support Worker team to develop a culture of respect, professionalism and improved performance; along with the stakeholder group, to ensure that they are kept informed and look for continuous improvement
- Implementing strategies to manage extreme behaviors, including verbal and physical aggression, and training the team on de-escalation
- Utilising restrictive practices (if necessary) in accordance with approved positive behavior support plan and the reporting thereof
Qualifications and Skills:
- Experience with challenging behaviors – preferably with experience as a SIL Team Leader or suitable qualification
- Knowledge and experience with complex mental health needs, with the ability to stay calm under pressure
- Must have prior experience leading and mentoring a team of Support Workers
- Understanding of ethical restrictive practices
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- First Aid and CPR certificates
- Paid Yellow Card and Blue Card, Drivers License, reliable vehicle (insurance and WOF required to be provided)
Personal Attributes:
- Empathetic, patient, and committed to improving life quality for individuals with disabilities.
- Resilient, adaptable, and excellent at problem-solving.
- Team-oriented but able to work independently when required.
- Respectful and culturally sensitive to providing care to a female participant.
Why You’ll Love Working at Blue Iris Support Services:
Employee Assistance Program
Flexible rostering
A challenging and rewarding career supporting participants to reach their goals
A welcoming environment
Blue Iris Support Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applicants who have an indigenous and/or culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) background. We acknowledge all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional custodians of the land.
How to Apply: If you are passionate about supporting individuals with complex mental health needs and meet the above qualifications, we’d love to hear from you! Please send your resume and a cover letter to careers@blue-iris.com.au