Care to make a real difference
ASKED what the key attribute of a support worker is and the team at Quarriers are quick to say “a passion for people”.
A good support worker should also be empathetic, resilient, looking for a challenge, have excellent communication skills and have a a genuine passion for people.
And if you feel you have these qualities then you could consider becoming a support worker for Quarriers Glasgow, which is recruiting for projects throughout the city.
For more than 140 years, Quarriers has been one of Scotland’s leading social care charities, providing care and support for young people, adults and families who face extremely challenging circumstances.
David McFadden, who manages Quarriers’ services in Glasgow’s east end, explained what it takes to be a support worker and is adamant that attitude and experience count for more than qualifications.
“Being a support worker means you are often working on your own initiative and not always part of a team,” said David.
“You have to have the right qualities and be empathetic to the people you are working with. If someone comes to us with the right attitude and with enthusiasm then we are confident they will be a great support worker.
“We can help them gain qualifications while working for Quarriers and this is something we are proud to do.
“One support worker, Stuart, traded a life working in a fast food restaurant to join Quarriers as a support worker.
“He combined his work with studies and, having completed his HND in social care, is now studying towards a degree to continue to develop his career in this sector and it has been fantastic to see his own personal and professional growth.”
Every day as a support worker will be different. You could be out in the local community supporting someone to attend college, activity clubs, social nights out and go on holiday.
Or you might find yourself administering medication, providing personal care and helping manage day-to-day finances.
The job is very rewarding and motivating as you can help your client grow and gain independence.
Three of the Glasgow Adult Services – Glasgow SOLE, Homelife Glasgow and Fred Martin Supported Living Services – help adults with disabilities in their respective supported living accomodation.
Quarriers has roles in Cardonald, Maryhill, Jordanhill, Yoker, Bearsden and St George’s Cross.
In addition to a rewarding career, with extensive training and learning and development opportunities, Quarriers offers a range of staff benefits.
These include childcare vouchers, life assurance, physiotherapy and occupational health, employee assistance programme, competitive holiday entitlement, flexible working, family-friendly policies and procedures and enhanced maternity/paternity benefit.
You can also enjoy the likes of a workplace pension, longservice recognition, accredited qualifications, Christmas savings scheme and a cycle to work scheme.