Disability Support Worker

Our Disability Support Workers visit clients in their homes. We get to know people so we can provide the best support we can. We cook, clean, organise, help with admin, remind people to take their meds, provide transport, homework support, and help people get out of crisis mode and start to thrive. We connect and we work hard to help people’s lives get better. 

• We do not turn up and sit on our phones. 
• We do not just ‘keep people company’
• We do not work under the supervision of managers who tell us what to do every minute
• We do not focus only on tasks and avoid connecting with the clients

• You’re local to Adelaide - we have clients from Elizabeth to Happy Valley
• You can build relationships with people and help them feel safe and respected
• You are flexible and have initiative, you don’t need the client to manage you
• You have great domestic skills - cooking, cleaning, etc
• You are comfortable travelling around to different clients
• You can be open about your needs, challenges, ideas, and mistakes
• You can cope with a roster that changes week to week
• We don’t allow clients to abuse staff, but you do need to be able to cope with someone having a rough time or becoming paranoid and accusing you of stealing from them without taking it personally. 

People with lived experience of disability and/or caring for loved ones with disabilities, mental health challenges, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identity, CALD backgrounds, and First Nations folks are especially encouraged to apply. 

Sarah is a Diversity and Inclusion Specialist. They have lived experience of disability and as a carer. They are Autistic and have ADHD. One part of their business is running in home support teams for folks with a disability.

This is a very small family business: we're tight knit, deliberately informal, non-clinical, anti-corporate, and mainly work from our homes. We stay small, usually around 10 staff maximum. 

This approach is a nightmare for some people and a breath of fresh air for others.  

We have regular mandatory team meetings online and supervision. We always have at least 2 staff on each client’s team so they’re supported if someone is sick or away. We use a range of technology tools so there’s little to no physical paperwork. Mostly we work solo with clients but we check in with their team online every shift to keep things running smoothly. 

We specialise in supporting people with neurodivergence, trauma, and mental health needs. Our clients often have fluctuating care needs or episodic illnesses, which is why we provide a flexible roster. 

Folks we work with often face particular challenges in setting up their support team such as being gender diverse, experiencing paranoia, hoarding, or homelessness. 

Sometimes this work is really challenging with clients in crisis and a lot of demands on us. Sometimes it’s incredibly dull and routine with cleaning toilets and picking up groceries. It's incredibly satisfying and meaningful work. 

Things I need from you:

• Your availability and the suburb you live in
• 2 References
• Resume
• Any particular skills you have 
• Any disabilities you are familiar with
• Whatever experience you have, personally or professionally supporting people

• NDIS clearance
• Working with Children Check
• Advanced First Aid
• COVID-19 training (free online)
• NDIS Orientation Module (free online)

• Lived experience of disability
• LGBTIQA+ identity
• Experience caring for someone in your personal life
• Own car and full license