We are looking for an individual to provide our residents with a variety of entertainment, that enriches their quality of life. This role will entail planning, preparing and delivering a range of activities, and helping in the dining room at mealtimes.
Individuals looking to apply for this role must be out going, and enthusiastic, kind, compassionate, empathetic, and organised.
1. Job Details:
To plan, organise, and deliver a diverse, engaging, and person-centred activities program that meets the physical, social, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual needs of all residents within the care home. The aim is to enhance residents' quality of life, promote well-being, encourage independence, and foster a stimulating and enjoyable environment.
2. Key Responsibilities:
- Activities Planning & Delivery:
- Design, implement, and evaluate a varied weekly and monthly activities schedule, taking into account individual resident preferences, abilities, and care plans.
- Organise both group and one-to-one activities, ensuring inclusivity for all residents, including those with cognitive impairments (e.g., dementia), physical limitations, or sensory deficits.
- Activities may include, but are not limited to:
- Creative arts and crafts (e.g., painting, knitting)
- Music and movement (e.g., singalongs, gentle exercise)
- Cognitive stimulation (e.g., quizzes, reminiscence, puzzles)
- Social interaction (e.g., discussion groups, tea parties, themed events)
- Outdoor activities (e.g., gardening, gentle walks, picnics)
- Spiritual activities (e.g., non-denominational services, reflective sessions)
- Community engagement (e.g., inviting external entertainers, arranging outings)
- Intergenerational activities with local schools/groups.
- Lead and facilitate activities sessions with enthusiasm and creativity.
- Adapt activities as needed to meet the evolving needs and interests of residents.
- Resident Engagement & Assessment:
- Actively engage with residents on an individual basis to understand their life histories, interests, hobbies, and preferences, using this information to inform activity planning.
- Contribute to residents' care plans by documenting their participation in activities and the impact on their well-being.
- Regularly review and assess the effectiveness of activities, seeking feedback from residents, families, and staff.
- Resource Management:
- Manage and maintain an inventory of activity equipment and supplies, ensuring they are safe, appropriate, and well-organised.
- Work within an agreed budget for activities, sourcing cost-effective resources.
- Identify and secure external resources, such as volunteers, entertainers, and community groups.
- Documentation & Reporting:
- Maintain accurate records of activity participation, resident feedback, and significant observations.
- Contribute to care home reports as required, demonstrating the impact of activities on residents' well-being.
- Ensure all activities comply with health and safety regulations and care home policies.
- Team Collaboration & Communication:
- Work collaboratively with care staff, nurses, and other professionals to ensure a holistic approach to resident care.
- Communicate effectively with residents, their families, and external stakeholders.
- Provide support and guidance to care staff on engaging residents in meaningful activities.
- Promoting Well-being:
- Act as a champion for person-centred care, ensuring all activities promote dignity, choice, and independence.
- Create a positive, vibrant, and welcoming atmosphere within the care home.
- Actively promote resident involvement in the planning and evaluation of activities.
- Health & Safety:
- Adhere to all health and safety policies and procedures, including risk assessments for all activities and outings.
- Ensure a safe environment for residents, staff, and visitors during activities.
- Report any concerns or incidents promptly.
- Professional Development:
- Participate in relevant training and development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
- Stay up-to-date with best practices in activities for older adults and individuals with dementia.
3. Person Specification:
Essential:
- Experience:
- Proven experience (at least 1-2 years) in planning and delivering activities for older people, ideally within a care home or similar setting.
- Experience working with individuals with diverse needs, including dementia, physical disabilities, and sensory impairments.
- Skills & Abilities:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with residents, families, and colleagues.
- Creativity, enthusiasm, and a positive, engaging personality.
- Strong organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
- Empathy, patience, and a genuine passion for working with older people.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Basic IT skills for record-keeping and communication.
- Understanding of the principles of person-centred care.
- Ability to adapt activities to meet individual needs and preferences.
- Knowledge:
- Understanding of the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs of older adults.
- Awareness of relevant health and safety guidelines in a care setting.
- Knowledge of safeguarding vulnerable adults.
- Personal Attributes:
- Reliable, punctual, and flexible, including willingness to work some evenings and weekends as required.
- Warm, compassionate, and patient approach.
- High level of integrity and professionalism.
Desirable:
- Qualifications:
- Relevant qualification in social care, health and social care, activities coordination, or a related field (e.g., NVQ/QCF Level 2 or 3 in Health and Social Care, Diploma in Activities for Older People).
- First Aid qualification.
- Skills & Abilities:
- Musical or artistic talent.
- Ability to drive and access to a vehicle (for outings).
- Experience with risk assessments.
4. Safeguarding:
Aldersmead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. This role is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
5. Equal Opportunities:
Aldersmead is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.
Our benefits package, perks and incentives:
- Minimum of 28 days holiday including bank holidays (pro rata)
- Extensive training and continual personal development
- Contributory Group Pension scheme.
- Option to earn more for working extra shifts at enhanced rate
- Free uniforms
- Staff events
- Free DBS check
- As a positive employer, we look to recruit from all sectors of our community
- A rewarding career, enabling our employees to make a difference to the lives of older people.
Job Type: Permanent
Pay: £13.50 per hour
Benefits:
Application question(s):
- Do you live a commutable distance
Experience:
- Activities: 1 year (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
