DRIVER / CARE ASSISTANT

PURPOSE OF JOB

SBHI is seeking a reliable and compassionate Driver/Care Assistant to support individuals living with Spina Bifida and/or Hydrocephalus in their daily transport and care needs partaking in SBHI activities. This role combines safe and professional driving with hands-on assistance, ensuring that service users travel in comfort and dignity while also receiving the support they require during their day service programme.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for transporting service users safely, assisting with personal and social care, and contributing to the overall wellbeing and independence of those accessing SBHI services. A caring nature, strong communication skills, and a commitment to safeguarding are essential.

 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Safely transport service users to and from their homes, activities, respite breaks and SBHI day services.

• Carry out pre-journey vehicle safety checks and report any issues promptly.

• Provide door-to-door assistance, supporting service users with mobility, boarding, and alighting.

• Assist with personal care needs sensitively and respectfully, maintaining dignity at all times.

• Support service users to take part in daily activities, work tasks, and social programmes.

• Supervise and assist during mealtimes and breaks.

• Encourage independence by enabling service users to carry out tasks wherever possible.

• Identify and report safeguarding concerns in line with SBHI policies.

• Ensure vehicles and working areas remain clean, safe, and well organised.

• Follow infection control procedures to protect service users and staff.

• Maintain confidentiality in line with SBHI’s data protection and safeguarding requirements.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• This role involves regular driving and assisting service users in and out of vehicles.

• May require flexible hours depending on transport schedules and user needs.

• Physical activity involved, including lifting and assisting with mobility aids.

SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND PERSONAL QUALITIES

Essential

• Full, clean driving licence.

• Experience in a driving and/or care support role (ideally within health, social care, or disability services).

• Good organisational and time management skills.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.

• Understanding of safeguarding and duty of care practices.

• Ability to assist with personal care and mobility needs respectfully and effectively.

• Willingness to utilise appropriate technology for communication (e.g. mobile apps, messaging, scheduling systems).

• Calm, compassionate, and professional approach under pressure.

• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

• Commitment to confidentiality and the values of SBHI.

• Appointment to this role is subject to successful completion of all required background checks.

Desired

• Experience working with individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities.

• First Aid and Manual Handling Certification.

• Training in infection control, safeguarding, and/or data protection (or willingness to undertake).