Complex Mental Health Support Worker – Newcastle Region

About Us

You Connect (YC) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals living with disabilities and complex mental health conditions that impact their daily lives. Our services include capacity-building supports, community participation, employment readiness, and housing. We are committed to creating a safe, person centered environment where our clients can thrive and achieve their goals.

About the Role

We are seeking compassionate and experienced Support Workers to join our dedicated team in the Newcastle Region. These roles involve working with a diverse range of participants, providing tailored support in both residential and community settings to people living with complex mental health diagnoses.

Key Responsibilities

Provide person centered care and support to individuals with complex mental health needs.

Safely and effectively manage and de-escalate behaviours such as self-harm, property damage, and verbal or physical aggression.

Implement behaviour support strategies, including crisis intervention techniques, to ensure the safety of participants and staff.

Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to develop and implement individualized support plans.

Accurately document and report on participant progress in a timely manner.

Foster a safe, supportive, and structured environment that promotes positive behaviours and healthy relationships.

(Highly desirable) Experience supporting participants with schizoaffective disorders who may present with medication resistance, drug-seeking behaviours, and high levels of verbal aggression.

Required Qualifications

Unrestricted Driver’s Licence & Comprehensive Car Insurance

Current First Aid & CPR Certificate

Working With Children Check (WWCC)

National Police Check (clear)

NDIS Worker Screening Check (NDISWC)

Preferred Qualifications

Certificate III/IV or Diploma in Individual Support, Disability, Mental Health, or a related field

About You

Reliable, empathetic, and committed to supporting vulnerable people

Relevant industry experience and knowledge (qualifications in Disability, Community Services, or Mental Health are highly regarded)

Strong understanding of disability and mental health issues and the challenges individuals face

Skilled in managing and de-escalating heightened behaviours

Flexible availability across mornings, days, afternoons and weekends

Benefits

Casual opportunities with clear pathways to permanent part-time

Supportive and friendly team environment

Salary packaging & novated leasing options (for part-time employees)

Internal training and professional development programs

Employee referral program

Staff benefits program

Annual staff celebration

YC is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) organization and we strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.