What is support work?

The core of what we do is supporting people to live independently in their own home, and to get the most from what their local community has to offer.

We adopt a person-centred approach where the person is at the forefront of decisions being made, and support plans are tailored to the individuals’ specific needs and situations.

What is supported living?

Supported living is all about enabling people to live in their own home independently with tailored support. It promotes independence and allows people to live with dignity and choice. This type of support often covers day and night, up to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but varies according to a person’s specific needs. As a support worker working in supported living your role is to promote a person’s independence at home. This could involve personal care, helping the person to prepare and cook meals, supporting them to go shopping, and supporting them to keep their home safe, clean and tidy. You may also be helping people to access healthcare, employment, and social activities such as planning a holiday, or building relationships.

What is community support?

Community support is more varied and flexible than supported living. It involves shorter periods (e.g. a few hours each week) helping people with specific tasks to support their independence, often outside of their home.

This may involve help with planning shopping or attending appointments, or helping them do the things they enjoy such as going out socially or for particular hobbies or events.

Our operational structure ensures you have support to develop your skills and provide the very best support to people with a learning disability.

Central to our approach is our golden thread of practice leadership – ensuring staff at all levels are empowered to lead by example. With shared values and behaviours, we work together to achieve equity, inclusion and belonging for all, in everything we do.

Why choose a career in support work?

Here are a couple of testimonials from current support workers:

“We help people to lead free lives, and I think that’s a wonderful thing.” – Peter

“It’s not just a job. I get to do something that I love doing. My work is to make their lives more happy and enjoyable. It’s giving someone a good quality of life.” – Tracey

“When I came over to Thera it dispelled a lot of the myths. I didn’t have a real understanding of adults with a learning disability so I went in quite blinkered. Realising the little things to us which are huge things for them. Being able to encourage and support that each day is so satisfying” – Katrina

“The job is challenging but it’s the best thing I’ve ever done. If I could say one thing to new starters it’s stick with it. The rewards far outweigh any nerves you have as a starter.”

Who can be a support worker?

Anyone! Whether you are just beginning your career, or looking to make a career change, Thera can provide you with the training you need to thrive in a support work environment.

Peter, a Senior Support Worker, made the move from working in financial services.

I worked in financial services for 30 years and wanted to do something different. That would give me a bit more satisfaction. I did take a pay cut, but I have way more fun in this role and I really feel like I make such a difference with what I do.

Do I need experience?

No experience? No problem! We are proud to offer a comprehensive training programme to our staff, ensuring everyone is equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive within their role.

Find a new role supporting people with a learning disability to live the life they choose here