REPORTS TO:
Supervisor
Primary Function:
Support Staff will provide quality care and support to the individual, will assist in carrying out implementations of outcomes defined by the Support Plan, and will (by reports and verbal communication) keep their Supervisor, Residential Services Coordinator and Associate Director informed of all problems as they relate to the Program. Support Staff will have input into plans for the individuals for whom they have responsibility.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Safety
The first concern is the safety of each individual. Support Staff must see that at all times individuals are receiving appropriate supervision. Staff are to follow all safety and security plans and procedures as they relate to the setting ie: residential, work, recreational. Staff must schedule their breaks to insure that individuals always have adequate supervision. It is never permissible for two staff to be on break at the same time.
2. Programming
A maximum degree of constructive interaction with an individual is to be maintained. The Support Staff are to follow the program as designed in both carrying out general routine and implementing the Individual Support Plan for each individual including record keeping as designated in all locations where staff are assigned. Communication and cooperation with other staff and with supervisor is essential for overall program coordination. It may be necessary for support staff to work hours or in programs other than their designated assignment. Staff is expected to collect data and enter this documentation in the electronic record or on paper data sheets, as applicable.
Teamwork is essential. The Supervisor must be informed of all outings and activities outside of the home. The Supervisor must also be informed of any visitor to the home.
3. Dignity and Respect
In providing support, staff is to encourage individuals to make choices and decisions about areas that impact their lives. Activities in which individuals participate are to be of their choice and staff are there to support these choices. Staff is to treat individuals with dignity and respect and with sensitivity for an individual’s feelings, wants and needs. Outings and activities are planned with input from the individual and person’s interests in mind.
4. Individual Support
Support Staff are to give individuals opportunity to participate in their daily routine. However, Support Staff have the responsibility for all support necessary for individual functioning if the individual cannot complete the tasks thoroughly. Examples of such functions include, but are not limited to, assistance with bathing, grooming, arranging hair appointments, preparation of meals, and laundering clothes. Support staff will provide support and assistance to individuals in any employment setting in which they are placed. Support Staff will assist individuals in maintaining appearance and dress appropriate for the occasion. Support is provided to the minimum degree necessary in order to promote the growth of independence.
5. Facility Maintenance
Support Staff have the responsibility for the care and maintenance of the physical facility. They are expected to perform routine maintenance and cleaning functions. Examples of such functions include, but are not limited to, sweeping, dusting, cleaning of bathroom fixtures, and bed making. Support Staff are expected to take pride in the appearance of the facility and include individuals in house maintenance to promote training and independence. Support staff are expected to keep the exterior grounds of the facility free of trash, clutter, and cigarette butts. Any maintenance concern will be reported to management.
6. Transportation
Support Staff will be responsible to transport individuals to and from work, community activities, etc. as is necessary.
7. Other
Support Staff will perform other duties as assigned by their Supervisor or other management.
Qualifications:
Credentials
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Work experience in a related area is desirable.
- Ability to be insured as a vehicle driver by agency’s insurance program. A valid Tennessee Driver’s License.
- Good knowledge of basic English sufficient to read instructions, keep records and write reports.
- Successful completion of background and reference check. Successful completion of a drug screen and TB Test.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to intervene physically on an occasional basis with aggressive and violent individuals including, but not limited to, the ability to engage in quick and exertive holding, stooping, bending, twisting, and turning.
- Ability to physically assist individuals in daily activities, including, but not limited to, assistance in transfers, eating, bathing, dressing, and toileting.
- Ability to perform repetitive bending and exertion movements daily including, but not limited to, those found in bed making, lifting laundry, and mopping.
- Ability to perform small hand movements daily including, but not limited to, those involved in the hand assembly of small manufacturing parts.
- Mobility sufficient to climb stairs daily and easily, enter and exit vans daily, and occasionally engage in running.
- Ability to engage in physical exercise several times a week with individuals including, but not limited to walking, shooting basketball and pool exercise.
- Visual and auditory ability to meet individuals’ needs and assure their safety.
Emotional Requirements
- Ability to handle appropriately the stress which is created by job situations including, but not limited to, noise, conflicting demands for time and attention, and physically and/or verbally aggressive/combative individuals.