Mental Health Disability Support Worker

A Mental Health Disability Support Worker is a professional who specializes in providing care and support to individuals with disabilities, particularly those with mental health conditions. Their primary responsibility is to assist individuals in managing their daily activities, fostering independence, and promoting overall well-being. Here's a detailed job role description:
As a Mental Health Disability Support Worker, you will work closely with individuals who have disabilities, with a specific focus on those who also experience mental health challenges. Your role is multifaceted, encompassing both practical assistance and emotional support to enhance their quality of life and facilitate their integration into the community.

**Responsibilities**:
1. Client Support: Provide one-on-one support to clients with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions, in their homes, communities, or residential facilities. Assist them with daily tasks such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and household chores.

2. Assessment and Planning: Conduct assessments of clients' needs and capabilities to develop individualized support plans. Collaborate with healthcare professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers, to create holistic care plans tailored to each client's unique requirements.

3. Emotional Support: Offer empathetic and nonjudgmental emotional support to clients experiencing mental health challenges. Actively listen to their concerns, validate their feelings, and provide encouragement to promote self-esteem and resilience.

4. Crisis Intervention: Respond calmly and effectively to crisis situations, such as emotional breakdowns or suicidal ideation, using appropriate de-escalation techniques and following established protocols. Ensure the safety and well-being of clients at all times.

5. Advocacy: Advocate for clients' rights and interests within the healthcare system, social services, and community resources. Empower clients to voice their needs and preferences, and assist them in accessing relevant support services, including counseling, therapy, and vocational training.

6. Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of client interactions, progress, and any significant incidents or observations. Prepare detailed reports for supervisors, healthcare professionals, and funding agencies as required.

7. Education and Training: Stay informed about advancements in mental health care, disability rights, and relevant legislation. Participate in ongoing education and training programs to enhance your knowledge and skills in supporting individuals with mental health disabilities.

Qualifications:

- Bachelor's degree in Mental Health and Disability Studies or a related field. A specialization in mental health within the disability degree is preferred.
- Relevant experience in supporting individuals with disabilities, particularly those with mental health conditions.
- Knowledge of person-centered approaches, trauma-informed care, and best practices in mental health support.
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Compassion, patience, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others.

Certifications:

- CPR and First Aid certification (preferred).
- Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation (if required for home visits).

Working Conditions:

- Work may involve irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to accommodate clients' needs.
- May require physical stamina and the ability to lift or assist clients with mobility impairments.
- Exposure to emotionally challenging situations and potentially distressing environments.

Conclusion:
As a Mental Health Disability Support Worker, you play a crucial role in empowering individuals with disabilities, including mental health conditions, to live fulfilling and dignified lives. Your dedication, compassion, and expertise contribute to the well-being of those you support and enrich the communities in which they live.

**Job Types**: Subcontract, Casual, Seasonal, Temp to perm, Volunteer, Apprenticeship, Internship

Pay: From $32.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 25 per week

**Benefits**:

- Professional development assistance
- Travel reimbursement

Schedule:

- 10 hour shift
- 12 hour shift
- 8 hour shift
- Afternoon shift
- Day shift
- Evening shift
- Every weekend
- Fixed shift
- Monday to Friday
- Morning shift
- Night shift
- On call
- Overtime
- Public holidays
- Rotating roster
- Shift work
- Weekend availability

Licence/Certification:

- First Aid Certification (preferred)
- Working with Children Check (preferred)
- National Police Certificate (preferred)
- Driver Licence (required)
- Mental Health Certification (required)

Work Authorisation:

- Australia (required)

**Location**:

- Melbourne, VIC (required)

Work