Disability support workers - the role

Disability Support Workers - The Role

Disability support workers play a crucial role in improving the lives of those with disabilities, providing care and support to help them live independently.  

Understanding the role

Being a disability support worker is not an easy role to step into; there are ample responsibilities but it is a very rewarding position. People with physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities, sensory disabilities and vulnerable people can benefit significantly from the help of these support workers. 

The key responsibilities of a disability support worker include:

• Assisting with daily living - This includes helping the service user with daily tasks, such as dressing, bathing and administering medication. It also covers ensuring the environment is kept safe from all hazards.

• Facilitating social engagement - Depending on the wishes and needs of the client, you may have to assist them with transport so that they can fulfill social duties. You may have to take them to work or an educational facility, or simply be their commute buddy. 

• Providing emotional support - A vital element of the role is supporting clients emotionally. This could involve being a good listener, providing hobby ideas and just simply being good company. 

• Supporting independence - One of the main goals of a disability support worker is the give the client the tools to live as independently as possible. The support worker may need to research home adaptations that could increase quality of life, or request information be sent in large print. There are many ways independence can be supported, this varies heavily for each individual. 

The skills and qualities employers look for 

There are many skills which can benefit a carer or support worker, and there’s often a lot of crossover in the skills required for different types of care roles. 

These are four of the most important qualities a good carer should possess: 

• Empathy and compassion - Understanding the needs of the service users and ensuring that they feel safe is crucial. You’ll need to put yourself in their shoes to learn how best to support their independence; you’ll become their motivator and companion, enabling them to live their lives to the fullest. 

• Effective communication - You need to be a confident verbal and written communicator in order to successfully assist your service user. Different people communicate in different ways, and you’ll have to work alongside several other professionals in a care environment too. Being able to voice your concerns and wishes confidently and clearly is essential to providing high quality care. 

• Patience and resilience - Depending on the service user, there may be resistances or conversations may need to be repeated multiple times. It is important to remain patient if the individual gets anxious or angry, as this ensures the safe person centered care a client deserves. 

• Problem solving - Oftentimes, there is a lot of independent work, so you’ll need to be confident in your ability to solve problems. In some cases, you may need to be the voice of your client and work hard to overcome obstacles in order to provide them with the best care possible. 

Opportunities for career advancement 

Starting as a disability support worker can open many career advancement opportunities. These include: 

• Senior support worker - with experience, you can move into senior roles with added responsibilities

• Management positions - you could progress into service management or care management 

• Specialist - You could choose to specialise your support in areas such as mental health or autism

• Further education - You could opt to pursue higher education and land a role in occupational therapy or nursing 

Challenges and Rewards 

Challenges are present throughout every job role and being a disability support worker is no different. Challenges may surface as either physical or emotional demands. It can be an emotionally challenging role as the individuals you support go through difficult times. It can also be a physical challenge as the hours can be long, and assisting with personal care and mobility can sometimes be strenuous. 

If you speak to anyone within a care role, they’ll say that the rewards far outweigh the challenges, and we’d agree. The job comes with an incredible sense of job satisfaction, knowing that you’re making a meaningful and significant positive impact on someone’s life. It can also help you undergo personal growth, as you’ll develop a knack for empathy and resilience. You’ll also be contributing towards a more inclusive society, and you’ll be there first hand to witness the impact of the work you do. 

For a more in depth breakdown of the benefits of being a carer - read our article here.

A rewarding career path 

Becoming a disability support worker is a fulfilling and noble career choice. It offers the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those with disabilities, providing them with the support they need to lead fulfilling, independent lives. 

The rewards are instant and limitless. You’ll undoubtedly learn new skills which will help you face further challenges. The role is interesting and varied, and can be fully flexible to suit you, too.

If you are passionate about helping others and making a lasting impact, this could be the perfect career choice for you. 

If you’re ready to start on your journey as a disability support worker, The SKA Group Ltd is here to help. Get in touch with us today and take the next step in your career. We have your back, and are committed to supporting you every step of the way.