Supporting those in need is one of the most fulfilling choices a person can make. Residential support work is one way to do this, and offers the opportunity to engage with residents in a very meaningful way.
So what does being a residential support worker entail? Well, that can depend on the facility you are working within. But there are some tasks you can expect to be completing wherever you work.
Morning Routines
In the morning, it will be your job to wake the residents and help them with their daily tasks. This may include helping the child go to the bathroom, shower, and dress themselves, before having breakfast.
Breakfast is a great time to discuss what lies in the day ahead, and to introduce residents to their activities. This might include school, play activities, or a therapy session. Whatever their plan for the day, it is so important to be open and honest about what to expect.
During The Day
Your daily activities may differ depending on whether those you care for attend school or daily activities throughout the day.
If they do, your time after you have dropped them off can be spent cleaning the home, ensuring a meal plan is set for the week, and preparing dinner for the inevitably hungry return.
Some may not yet attend school all day, but cases like this still require stimulation and exciting activities. So, as a residential support worker, it’ll be your job to think up fascinating new daily activities for them to enjoy.
After school, you’ll make dinner and talk about your day. Maybe something great has happened, or maybe you’ll be tasked with discussing a difficult subject. Either way, you’ll be a point of safety and knowledge, and that is an amazing privilege.
Bed Time
If you are not on a night shift, it’ll be your job to help your residents prepare for bed. This may include helping them to change, go to the bathroom, and helping them into bed.
If this process requires a hoist, you’ll be working in a pair. If not, this is often a solo job. And after it is completed, it’s time to complete a handover. This handover is vital for sharing what has happened during your shift with those caring for your residents over night.
If you are on the night shift, it’ll be your job to ensure all residents are safe and comfortable during the night.
Some of your responsibilities may include ensuring that people are comfortable in their beds, and to ensure everybody is happy and relaxed, if not asleep.
One of the best things about being a residential support worker is that you never know what the day is going to bring. So, if you’re ready for a job that’ll always keep you on your toes, apply to be a residential support worker at Bright Futures Care today.
