When it comes to caregiving roles, we often think about doctors and nurses; but there is a group of quiet achievers we also need to acknowledge – disability support workers. They are the unwavering frontline of care for people with disability in our community, prioritising their dignity, autonomy, and wellbeing.
But what exactly does a disability support worker do?
What is a disability support worker?
At its core, a role as a disability support worker is multifaceted and deeply rewarding. You will be a second set of hands for your clients, supporting them with all aspects of their lives, to ensure they are happy, safe, and empowered to live independently.
In terms of the logistics of the role, it’s incredibly flexible. You can work full-time, part-time or casually. There are shifts during usual business hours and outside of traditional hours, so you can create a role and roster which fits into your life.
Responsibilities of a disability support worker
Working as a disability support worker is the definition of ‘no two days are the same’. Because each of your clients is different, they’ll have unique hobbies, and care needs.
Some of the things you might be required to do include:
- Support with getting out and about in the community. This could mean accompanying your client to the shops or a café, or to see a movie.
- Personal care: such as showering and dressing.
- Medication: administering or supporting the person to take medication on time
- Home duties: cooking, cleaning or helping look after a pet.
As well as these care requirements, a disability support worker can also become a key advocate for their clients. It’s important people with disability play a role in our society, and disability support workers are essential in making this a reality. Disability support workers can support the integration and involvement of their client in society, through things like employment, activities and hobbies and education. Without a disability support worker, this may not be possible for the person with disability.
Providing supportive care
Your role as a disability support worker has two key parts:
- To be a supportive and caring person your client can trust, and
- To be a responsible and organised support for their medical and personal care needs.
Disability support workers often form great friendships with their clients and become advocates and confidants for them.
People with disability deserve the highest quality of care, delivered by trained and friendly people. That’s exactly what a disability support worker aims to do.
Skills and qualifications of a disability support worker
Many disability support workers have a Certificate III or IV in Disability Care or Aged Care but this isn’t essential. You can begin work without these qualifications and can choose to complete them while you are working.
Regardless of whether you have a qualification or not, you will receive on-the-job training in things such as administering medication, personal care, mealtime management, and choice and control.
A great disability support worker is someone who:
- Sees the value people with disability bring to our community
- Cares for others
- Willing to go the extra mile for people
- Is comfortable providing personal care to others
- Can adapt to changing situations
- Loves working with people
How to apply
We are always on the lookout for empathetic and caring people to work with our incredible clients. You can apply to be a disability support worker at Focused Health Care here. We can’t wait to meet you.
*All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Focused Health Care can consult with you regarding your individual health needs.
