Senior Care Assistant

Job summary

Interview Process 

The recruitment process will consist of the following stages: 

Stage One: Informal initial discussion with Group Care and General Administration

Stage Two: Formal interview on-site with the Director of Operations and Compliance and the Home Manager 

Benefits 

Discretionary annual bonus 

5.6 weeks annual leave 

Stable supportive leadership structure 

Ongoing investment into the home and facilities 

Clear learning and development opportunities within the organisation

Progression towards Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care qualification

On-site Parking

Company events 

Job Overview 

The Senior Carer is responsible for delivering high-quality, person-centred care to residents and for providing day-to-day leadership to care staff on shift. 

The postholder will promote dignity, privacy, safety and independence, ensure care is delivered in line with assessed needs and care plans, support medication processes where trained and competent, and contribute to the smooth and safe running of the care home in line with organisational policies and regulatory expectations.

This role is usually based on a rota and may include day shifts, night shifts, weekends and bank holidays. 

The postholder will be expected to work in a physically and emotionally demanding environment, support residents with mobility and personal care needs, and respond flexibly to the operational needs of the service. 

All duties must be carried out in line with the care home’s policies, procedures and the standards expected by regulators in England.

The post holder is expected to work in accordance with the home’s policies and procedures, undertake regular training and supervisions to maintain competence and compliance.

The Senior Care Assistant will report to the Director of Operations and Compliance, the Home Manager and the Deputy Manager.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality personal care and support in accordance with individual care plans, preferences, risk assessments and assessed needs.

• Support residents with activities of daily living, including personal hygiene, dressing, mobility, continence care, nutrition and hydration, while preserving dignity and independence.

• Observe, monitor and report any changes in residents’ physical health, mental wellbeing or behaviour, and escalate concerns promptly in line with the home’s escalation processes.

• Administer, prompt or assist with medication in line with training, competency, policy and legal requirements, and maintain accurate medication records.

• Maintain accurate, timely and legible care records, including daily notes, charts, incident reports, handovers and other required documentation.

• Communicate with GPs and District Nurses as required, ensuring all necessary documentation following supported visits are updated and recorded. 

• Ensure all stocks and supplies are ordered and checked in, and stock rotation is maintained.

• Communicate effectively with residents, relatives, colleagues and external professionals to promote continuity, safety and person-centred care.

• Respond appropriately to accidents, incidents, emergencies, safeguarding concerns or sudden deterioration in a resident’s condition.

Leadership and Supervision 

• Lead, support and guide care staff during the shift, ensuring duties are allocated appropriately and care is delivered to the required standard.

• Conduct and complete daily huddle meetings with team members to outline expectations for the shift as well as to participate in effective handovers with colleagues and managers.

• Complete spot checks and observations of care delivery to monitor practice, promote high standards and identify any areas requiring support or improvement.

• Act as a role model for professional conduct, compassionate care, good communication and adherence to policy and procedure.

• Work in partnership with the Director of Operations and Compliance, the Home Manager and wider management team to identify concerns relating to performance, training needs, wellbeing or poor practice, and support timely escalation where required.

Compliance and Professional Standards 

• Work in accordance with safeguarding procedures and report any concerns about abuse, neglect, discrimination or unsafe practice without delay.

• Follow infection prevention and control procedures, moving and handling guidance, food hygiene requirements and health and safety policies at all times.

• Support compliance standards set by the Director of Operations and Compliance and the Home Manager, as well as complete allocated audits in a timely manner, report findings appropriately, and maintain full compliance oversight throughout the shift.

Essential Skills and Qualities:

• Compassionate and respectful approach to care

• Good verbal and written communication skills 

• Time management

• Ability to lead a shift and support colleagues 

• Ability to work as part of a team and use initiative 

• Understanding of person-centred care, safeguarding, confidentiality, equality and diversity, infection control and health and safety.

Qualifications and Experience 

Essential: 

• Previous experience in a care home, residential care or adult social care setting

• Experience supporting older people or vulnerable adults with personal care needs

• Knowledge and understanding of medication administration within a care home setting

• A working knowledge of care planning and reviews based on individual resident needs

• Confidence in liaising with families and healthcare professionals 

Desirable:

• A relevant Health and Social Care qualification (Level 3 Diploma, NVQ Level 3)

• Previous senior or team-leading experience

• Additional training in dementia care, moving and handling, safeguarding or end-of-life care