Support worker FAQs
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You don’t always need previous experience in social care to apply. We look for people with the our values, compassion, patience, and willingness to learn. Full training and ongoing support are provided.
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Every day is different depending on the people you support and the service you work in. You may support autistic adults with daily living tasks, communication, going out, hobbies, attending appointments, cooking, or building independence and confidence.
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Shift patterns vary between services and roles. They may include days, evenings, weekends, sleep-ins, waking nights or bank holidays. Specific shift details will be included in the job advert.
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Most roles involve working as part of a supportive team, although some shifts may involve lone working depending on the service and level of support required. Full guidance and support are always provided.
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Some people we support lead active lifestyles and enjoy getting out. Whether that’s walks, day trips, or pursuing their interests. You’ll be there to support them in what matters to them.Training and support are provided to help staff work safely and confidently.
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You will attend our Adult Services induction which includes sessions catered specifically towards supporting autistic adults and the framework of support we use, mandatory training, regular one to one sessions and ongoing support throughout your career with us from managers and colleagues. We want all staff to feel confident and supported in their role from day one.
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Yes. Many of our staff progress into senior support worker, specialist, management, training, or business support roles. We encourage continuous learning and development.
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Some roles require a driving licence, particularly if supporting people to go out, while others do not. Please check the individual job advert for requirements.
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Yes. All successful applicants will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check before starting employment, in line with safer recruitment practices.
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A good support worker takes a genuinely person-centred approach. Actively listening, building meaningful relationships, and supporting the people we support to live the lives they choose. They focus on understanding each person’s needs, communicating in ways that work for the people we support, and encouraging independence at the right pace. They are thoughtful, proactive, and team-oriented, bringing ideas to improve everyday life while also being confident making decisions when needed. Above all, a good support worker combines compassion, strong communication, and a commitment to high-quality, respectful support.
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Alongside mandatory training, staff receive autism-specific training to help them better understand autistic people’s needs, communication styles, sensory differences, and support approaches.
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Benefits may include training and development opportunities, employee assistance support, wellbeing resources, pension schemes, annual leave entitlement, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day.
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Many services offer a range of contracts including full-time, part-time, relief, and flexible working opportunities depending on the needs of the service.
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A sleep-in shift involves sleeping overnight in the home of the person we support to provide support if needed. Details of sleep-in payments and expectations will be included in the job advert.
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This depends on recruitment checks such as references and DBS clearance, but we aim to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible.
