Job Introduction
We’re looking for a caring and reliable Support Worker to join our Dorset Outreach team in Shaftesbury, Dorset. You’ll be supporting two adults with autism and learning disabilities to live safely and happily in their own home and out in the community. This is a 2:1 support package for each person, delivered by a small consistent team, where your relationship with the people you support really matters.
Both individuals have unique personalities, strong preferences, and communicate in their own way using hand signs, PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), and gestures. Understanding how they communicate is key to supporting them well.
Both individuals are supported separately during the day and enjoy different routines and activities. They both share a goal to grow in confidence and connect with their community. Some of the outings they enjoy include trips to the cinema, a swim, a walk, bowling, or a meal out.
Your role will be to help them continue to build on that progress. You will be supporting them to try new activities, develop skills, and eventually explore things like social groups or clubs so that they can build relationships with likeminded individuals. You'll be a key part of helping them live fuller, more meaningful lives.
They thrive when supported by calm, confident staff who are patient and consistent.
Shaftesbury, Dorset
They live in a shared home where they each receive 2:1 support. You'll be working as part of a busy and collaborative team who support both individuals separately throughout the day. Vehicles are provided for community access, which means every shift must include a driver and a non-driver. You will not need to use your own car.
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£13.50 per hour
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Refer a friend bonus – earn up to £500
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Career development opportunities
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Fully funded training and apprenticeships
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Blue Light Card (discounts in shops and restaurants)
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Company pension
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Employee Assistance Programme
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Experience supporting people with learning disabilities and complex needs is desirable, but not essential
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A calm and patient approach
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Willingness to learn and be part of a small trusted team
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Ability to follow detailed support plans and communication strategies
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Full UK driving licence is desirable, but not essential for some roles (driver and non-driver required per shift – vehicles provided)
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Supporting them to build trust and confidence
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Encouraging them to do things they enjoy, like going to the cinema, swimming, walks, bowling and meals out
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Helping them feel safe and comfortable
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Communicating clearly and consistently using the methods that work for them
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Supporting with personal care, meals and daily routines
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Recording what happens in your shifts and raising any concerns to your line manager
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Helping them try new activities, explore social opportunities, and grow in independence
We’re a family-run business that’s been caring and supporting people since 1986. With over 4,500 team members, we’re one of the UK’s largest care providers and are continuing to grow. We have over 100 locations across England including care & nursing homes, home care branches, extra care schemes, supported living properties and live-in offices.
Agincare are signatories of the Care Leaver Covenant and are committed to supporting care leavers to live independently. We are proud to be able to offer a guaranteed interview to care leavers, or an informal conversation about our career opportunities.
All of our care services are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
Equal opportunities are important to us at Agincare and we welcome applications from all.”
