Support people with learning disabilities to live full, happy lives.
Location: Avis Road, Newhaven
Salary: £12.96 per hour & Allowances
Hours: Part time or Full time - 30 to 37 hours per week
Allowances (dependent on working times):
Unsociable hours uplift: £4.40 extra per waking night shift
Sleep-in shifts: £61 per shift (10pm–7am)
Sleep-in disturbance: If disturbed for 1–4 hours, you get the unsociable hours uplift plus normal hourly pay for time worked. If disturbed for 4+ hours, you’re paid normal hourly rate for the entire shift plus the £4.40 allowance.
Who are we
Southdown is a not-for-profit provider supporting 160 adults with learning and physical disabilities across Sussex. We run 23 supported living services and 4 residential care homes.
What you’ll be doing
Are you passionate about making a real difference? We’re seeking a compassionate and adaptable Support Worker to help individuals live independently and with dignity. Your role involves encouraging clients to connect with their community through activities like walks, cinema, shopping, and café visits, alongside supporting daily living tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and personal care.
You’ll help build clients’ confidence and independence through empowering care in a rewarding role where no two days are the same.
Previous experience in roles such as Health Care Assistant, Support Worker, Nurse, or Mental Health Care Worker is welcome but not essential, as full training will be provided.
The best thing about my job is the clients… Getting to know them, getting to know their characters and just enjoying life with them’ – Karen, Southdown Support Worker.
Service Description
Avis Road Located in a purpose-built bungalow in Newhaven, just minutes from the train station and major bus routes, this warm and welcoming residential care home supports six adults with learning disabilities.
Our clients are supported to lead active, fulfilling lives and are supported to make the most of their local community while developing each client’s choice, control and independence.
Perks and benefits
* Health cost cash-back scheme: access to our health insurance scheme which covers dental, optical, physical therapies and other medical treatments with the option to add greater levels of cover.
* Interest‑free loans: assistance with larger costs that arise such as tenancy deposits, season travel tickets or buying a car.
* Access to the Easit Network: discounts and incentives on train, bus and car journeys such as 15% off eligible daily and season rail tickets.
* Blue Light card: access to discount services for the social care sector with savings across thousands of online shops, restaurants, and high‑street vendors.
* Free advice and counselling service: confidential emotional support and practical guidance from our independent telephone service.
* 22 days paid holiday plus bank holidays (or paid time in lieu for any bank holidays worked).
Knowledge, skills and experience; What you need for the role
* A patient, empathetic approach
* Completion of Southdown’s training in health & social care, moving and handling, Positive Behaviour Support, safeguarding, and health protocols
* Willingness to support intimate and personal care needs
* Enhanced DBS check (paid for by Southdown)
What would be nice
* Experience supporting people with physical or cognitive disabilities, learning disabilities, or mental health issues
* Experience handling challenging behaviour
* Knowledge of medication administration and record‑keeping
* Previous professional or personal care experience
* Familiarity with Makaton or other non‑verbal communication methods
Additional Requirements (sometimes needed)
* Physical ability to assist with mobility (e.g., pushing wheelchairs, supporting bathing) and participate in activities like long walks
* A full manual driving licence may be needed to operate service vehicles and support community access
Due to the nature of care, the post may sometimes be restricted to applicants of a particular sex in line with the Equality Act 2010, depending on client needs.
Training
Full training is provided, so no prior experience is necessary. You’ll gain qualifications and develop your skills with the largest housing, care, and support provider in Sussex.
How to apply
Please click on the ‘Apply Now’ button and fill out our simple one‑page application form.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and an appointment may be made before the advertisement is closed if a suitable candidate is identified.
We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
About Southdown
We are a Disability Confident Employer and are fully committed to supporting Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and welcome applications from all candidates that meet our job specifications. If you feel there is a barrier that potentially prevents you from applying, do get in contact with us, as we are always happy to discuss (or arrange a discussion with the recruiting manager) to explore if any reasonable adjustments can be made to support your application.
Contact information
Email: jobs@southdown.org
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