Diversional Therapist

Why SCC?

We have a long history of providing exceptional care that empowers older people to live life to the full.  Our Care and Engagement Model ensures all our programs and activities are resident-focused and resident-driven, from special interest groups, virtual quizzes, animal-assisted therapy, and intergenerational activities to technology base- programs, social groups and creative pursuits.  

Why is SCC (NSW & ACT) a leader in Engagement and Purposeful Living?
Diversional Therapy Advisors provide mentoring and support to each of our homes, and this is supported by the Engagement & Purposeful Living Manager.

• Access to quality resources and innovative programs such as Tovertafel, Moove & Groove and Virtual Reality programs.
• Regular professional development opportunities through an internal education series.
• Opportunities to networking with other SCC (NSW & ACT) Leisure and Lifestyle team members.
• We are passionate about making a difference in the industry.

Southern Cross Care NSW & ACT benefits:

• Not-for-profit salary packaging benefits of up to $18K
• Opportunities for career progression.
• Ongoing learning and development – plus online learning in topics of your choice.
• Friendly inclusive culture with strong leadership and support.
• Recognition and appreciation program.
• An organisational commitment to continuous improvement - share your ideas and we will listen.
• Ability to purchase extra leave 
• Heart HQ - the Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT) People Platform that is packed with exclusive benefits and features designed to help you Celebrate, Connect and Succeed.

The Role:

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about using their Recreational/ Diversional Therapy qualification and experience to truly make a difference. This position is based in North Turramurra and offered as permanent full-time, Monday to Friday  with flexible start and finish times.

Major focus areas for the Recreational/Diversional Therapist:  
Coordinate the planning, implementation and evaluation of a holistic leisure program based directly on residents needs, wants and preferences

• Be responsible for the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of individualised leisure and recreational programs for our residents. 
• Support the Management Team to maintain oversight of the leisure and lifestyle staff and overall leisure and lifestyle service provision
• Provide direct oversight and support to the Lifestyle staff to ensure the provision of high-quality services that meet the resident’s individual needs
• Facilitate and coordinate a dynamic, resident driven leisure program that supports, challenges and enhances the psychological, social, emotional, physical, spiritual and cultural wellbeing of our residents. 
• Provide mentorship and leadership to all staff in relation to meeting the resident’s leisure, cultural and spiritual needs, wants and preferences
• Actively involve residents and / or key stakeholders in the development of Leisure and Lifestyle services and programmes
• Ensure documentation and quality audits are undertaken and actioned as required.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of Southern Cross Care’s Risk Management and Quality Standards, processes and requirements as they relate to clinical practice and overall resident care.

What’s in it for you?

• Competitive salary package $$
• NFP salary sacrificing benefits (less tax $$) + meal & entertainment allowance
• Annual leave Loading
• Ongoing development & career progression
• Discounted private health insurance
• Access to our Employees Assistance Program

Essential requirements:

• An accepted university qualification including Bachelor of Health Science (Therapeutic Recreation), Bachelor of Health Science (Leisure and Health), Bachelor of Applied Science (Leisure and Health), Diploma in Diversional Therapy or an Associate Diploma in Applied Science (Diversional Therapy) or other qualification deemed acceptable.
• Sensitivity to, and understanding of, the needs of older people.
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills
• Strong technology skills including competency with electronic record-keeping software/systems
• Ability to set and maintain high standards in the provision of quality care and support services

Desirable requirements:

• Demonstrated experience working as a Recreation/Diversional Therapist, however new graduates or recent graduates welcome to apply.
• Experience in an Aged Care setting, or experience providing clinical care to older people.
• Sound understanding of relevant State and Commonwealth legislation as it applies to Aged Care providers 
• Preferably have some experience in supervising staff

About Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT)

We are a not-for-profit organisation with a mission to empower older people to ‘live life to the full’. For the last 50 years our name has been trusted by the community to provide care and support for thousands of people in over 40 locations across NSW and the ACT.

At SCC we value every employee's contribution – our culture is underpinned by our HEART Values – Honesty, Empathy, Acceptance, Respect and Teamwork.