We have a lovely older gentleman who needs inactive evening support from an awesome team of Support Workers who have some knowledge (or willing to learn) of Lewy Body Dementia, Parkinsons and the challenges a participant experiences as a result of this, but we’ll get to that shortly…

This super cool former lifeguard is an ex Brit (but don’t hold that against him) but has been living the Australian beach life for over 20 years. He is a Coventry City F.C. supporter in the EFL (that’s English soccer for those not into their overseas leagues) but also enjoys his local Rugby Union and Rugby League.

… and music. He LOVES his old school rock with a bit of Baby Boomer and Gen X stuff thrown in there as well, but Pink Floyd, Rolling Stones and Alan Parson’s Project (among others) are his jam.

In relation to his disability, this gentleman’s dementia can result in quite intense night terrors as well confusion and unconscious agitation (he does not realise he is agitated and will forget soon after), usually at night, however outside of these episodes, he is a lovely, sweet and gentle guy. His condition is very frightening to him (think waking up and not knowing where you are or who is in the house with you) and as a result, he can act on his terrors until he is calmed and acquainted to his surrounds again, upon which he goes back to being his sweet, gentle self.

In addition to his Dementia, he also suffers from Parkinsons which can affect his ability to freely mobilise which requires someone who has strong manual handling skills as he does need some physical support.

The supports required from you (if you are the right person) is mainly regarding the evening support helping him to bed, calming him in times of terror etc. You will be working alongside another QSSS Support Worker who works the overnight awake shift. The ideal Support Worker is someone who has a good mix of a strong will but a gentle soul. Experience in dementia is preferable as Lewy Body Dementia has it’s own unique presentations which requires a different approach each time. The team need someone to come on board who is willing to work sleep over shifts and cover for each other when they’re sick or away.

There are some personal hygiene support and assistance regarding domestic duties and general companionship (have a chat and create a really strong rapport) will also be part of the role.

From a training perspective, you will receive an orientation to this participant’s routine by very experienced Support Worker and others in the industry, backed up by a comprehensive Support Plan and support from our awesome Support Specialist team.

If the above resonates with you, we really want to hear from you.

Shifts are on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and currently two staff work together, one person (that would be you) sleeping over with active duties from 6:00pm – 10:00pm, then inactive support from 10:00pm 6:00am (allowance paid while you sleep!). Your co-worker will be on the overnight shift from 8:00pm to 6:00am and if needed, they will seek support from you of which attracts additional pay.

The hourly base rate for Evening awake @ $38.00/hr, with Saturday @ $47.00, Sunday @ $60.50 and Public Holiday Shifts @ $73.80 (sorry, rate not negotiable). Superannuation is paid in addition to these rates.

Requirements:

Mandatory: Be a decent, caring and supportive human who understands that a Client is the decision maker and the expert in their support needs … and you are the expert in making it happen

Experience with dementia is a must and ideally understanding the unique challenges it presents, including managing hallucinations and terrors

Resonate with the role description above

Ability to provide compassionate, patient-centered care

Willingness to cover shifts during staff leave

And of course work and within the clearly defined NDIS Guidelines, QSSS Protocols, Expectations and Values

Have awesome multitasking, prioritising skills with a proactive and problem solving mindset

You will have support in your role via a comprehensive care plan and ongoing training and support from our awesome Support Specialist team.

Your key responsibilities & accountabilities…

To deliver high quality support to our Clients in the capacity they require, the exact way they would like it delivered

Communicate effectively and collaborate for our Clients needs with our Clients, team & Support Specialist

Understand, follow instructions, and be responsive to our Clients needs

Provide support to our Clients as required

To support our Clients to achieve their NDIS Goals

Have good rapport building skills and a gentle, encouraging manner

Have an interest in building a respectful relationship with our Clients

Be reliable, flexible and responsive to fill shifts when required

Why join QSSS?

Really simple, we are on a mission to completely disrupt the disability and aged care industry by providing supports in a way that most providers would say is impossible - and that is to give true choice, control and freedom to our Clients in every way possible.

Working with our Clients, you have the privilege to do what most do not get to do in their career, and that is to actually make a huge difference and make a positive impact in people’s lives each and every day. You can be a part of helping our Clients to live their absolute best life. We want passionate, dedicated, proactive decent humans who genuinely want to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

At QSSS we believe in providing opportunities. We provide on job training and development to people looking to start their career in Disability and Aged Care. If you are looking for the right motivation for a career change and want to make a difference in the community, QSSS can provide you with that platform and help you build that confidence. If you are a caring, compassionate and dedicated person seeking a flexible work environment, then QSSS is the right employer for you.

If you believe you are the right fit for this amazing opportunity, please submit your:

Cover Letter – identifying whether you are applying for a Team Leader role or Support Worker Role and explaining to us why you think you would be the perfect fit for this position AND,

CV - outlining your relevant experience and qualifications.

Wishing you luck with your application, hopefully we’ll be speaking soon!