What is a support worker?
Put simply, being a
support worker
Support workers
Support workers are people who are paid to give care and support to people who need it.
are people who are paid to give care and support to people who need it.
means directly supporting people with a
learning disability
A learning disability is to do with the way someone's brain works. It makes it harder for someone to learn, understand or do things.
.
You’ll support them to live the lives they want. This could see you doing pretty much anything – from day-to-day things like cooking or helping with
finances
Finances are anything to do with money.
, to day trips and craft projects.
It varies from person to person, but it’s always about building trust, creating opportunities, and encouraging what’s possible. You’ll also support them to develop
relationships
Relationships are about the people in your life. You might have different types of relationships like friendships, family relationships, or a boyfriend or girlfriend.
and play an active part in their local communities. It’s not always the easiest job. But it’s always rewarding.
You will need to be prepared to work flexibly over a seven-day period. Download our support worker job pack or call our resourcing team on 01733 246 699.
Benefits and rewards from being a Mencap Support Worker
Knowing that you’re making a positive and lasting difference to people’s lives is a great feeling.
And it’s far from the only benefit you’ll get when you join us.
Take a look at the jobs Mencap has to offer
We've lot's of rewarding opportunities across the country for incredible, caring people to provide vital support for people with a learning disability.
A day in the life of a Mencap Support Worker
We employ more than 8,000 people around the UK in permanent jobs, who are mostly support workers.
Watch our video and find out more about a day in the life of a Mencap support worker.
Your learning and development
Being a support worker with us isn’t only about creating opportunities for people with a learning disability – it’s about having plenty of opportunities to learn and grow for yourself.
What makes a good Support Worker?
We look for people who are patient, reliable, honest and friendly. You must take the time to really get to know and understand others. You’ll need a sense of humour too.
Because when you’re helping to fight for
equality
Equality is when everyone is treated fairly.
, and overcoming a thousand different obstacles every day – well, sometimes you’ve just got to laugh.