Support Worker; Alcohol Dependent Drinkers

Denley House in Bournemouth aims to provide a better quality of life for alcohol dependent adults. Our target group are alcohol dependent drinkers aged 55 years plus, who have many safeguarding issues. These are individuals who have self-neglected, which warrants a care package delivered via an external agency. Our aim is to reduce the need for safeguarding, by keeping the customer safe from homelessness, predators, themselves, reduce ambulance call outs and hospital admissions.

All customers are referred through social services, the Community Mental Health Team, Learning Development and street homeless services. Once we receive a social services assessment, we risk assess the potential customer then invite for an interview. A package of care is agreed and put in place by a social worker prior to the customer moving in.

**Position**:
To develop customer led support using person centered and psychologically informed approaches by providing information, advice and support for those who are actively drinking alcohol on scheme. To contribute to the delivery of a high quality, safe and dynamic service in accordance with our policies, procedures, vision, values and strategic objectives. The post holder is required to work on a 7 day rotating shift pattern. The post holder will work within the BCHA Psychologically Informed Framework to ensure that all customers are enabled to make lasting changes, which equip them for independent living and work.

To support and work with vulnerable adults who are dependent drinkers; to reduce barriers to care, support and treatment. You will ensure that the needs of the people we support are met whilst always reviewing and improving the quality of Service

**So, what will you be doing?**
- Initiating meaningful engagement with individuals to successfully achieve their personal goals
- Working as part of a team to deliver a consistent quality of support
- Creating opportunities to build and extend relationships with external agencies
- Managing emergencies appropriately with the support of other colleagues, including the on-call manager
- Using your own initiative to develop creative solutions in response to the needs of individuals
- Create and deliver innovative, and fun approaches in which life learning is paramount to the personal development of the client.

You will be part of an organisation that is developing Psychologically Informed Environments (PIE) and Trauma Informed Care approaches.

**An opportunity that’s right for you**

You will be provided with a full induction and personal development plan, including core training such as safeguarding, first aid and health and safety, with an opportunity to attend other specialist training such as solution focused techniques and mental health awareness. We also employ people who do not have experience of working in our sector

We believe in developing each support worker’s strengths, skills and talents. There are opportunities to undertake formal qualifications and to progress and develop at BCHA. We have a 5-day week rota, and our staff enjoy our flexible / people orientated approach around encouraging a good home/ work life balance.

For an informal discussion about the role or for further information, please contact Graeme Miles, Senior Practitioner: 07966 800271

DBS checks are required for roles DBS checks are required for roles where you will be working with or have lone contact with Vulnerable Adults and Children.

BCHA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment

**Requirements**:
Ability to lone work; following internal guidance and safety procedures

Ability to manage young people’s behaviour in line with risk management plans and with aim of minimising exclusions/unplanned departures

Ability to liaise and work cohesively with internal and external groups, forum and partners

Experience writing basic reports, letters and other correspondence

**Other information**:
Knowledge and experience of Trauma Informed and/or Strength Based and/or Psychological Informed practices and interventions

Experience supporting those affected by Alcohol

Able to demonstrate you are an effective team worker and able to work effectively on your own if required.

Ability to build effective relationships with customers, colleagues and external agencies

Acts professionally at all times

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Working knowledge of legislation as it relates to the service