Probationary Support Worker (PSW) - Reading

Central South Services LTD is hiring a Probationary Support Worker (PSW) within the Adult Social Care Workforce (ASCW), under National Care Service (NCS) and assigned to Central (DCS) Reading.

As a Probationary Support Worker (PSW) within our Central (DCS) Berkshire Service Branch on a Fast-Tracked Probation Period, you will play a crucial role in supporting individuals within Berkshire.

Your work will directly to contribute to the reduction of hospital readmissions by providing practical, emotional, and person-centred support and assistance to individuals at the comfort of their homes OR at our supported living properties.

You will empower individuals to regain their independence, ensure their basic needs are met to a high-quality standard following each Service User’s Care Assessment Plan (CPA). You will also be expected to maintain accurate records, uphold safeguarding practices, and work collaboratively within our Adult Social Care Workforce (ASCW) and externally with other Key Stakeholders.

Candidates with the Right to Work in the United Kingdom will be considered for this Position. Overseas Candidates will not be accepted.

Please note: This job description is not exhaustive. The post holder may be required to undertake additional duties, responsibilities, or tasks that are reasonably commensurate with the scope, nature, and grade of the position, in line with the operational requirements of the Service Branch and the Organisation.

This position encompasses both regulated and non-regulated activities, as defined under the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, ensuring compliance with all Care Quality Commission (CQC) Fundamental Standards and the Care Act 2014.

A. Direct Support to Service Clients

The postholder shall provide both Regulated and Non-Regulated Care & Support Provisions (CSP), in accordance with assessed needs through the Care Plan Assessment (CPA) and associated Risk Assessments (RA) in line with the Service Schedule for Service Users.

·        Conduct Home Visits and Welfare Calls in accordance with the Service Schedule.

·        Deliver High-Quality, Non-Regulated Support Including:

o   Managing & Maintaining Social Needs (e.g., Companionship, Access to Community)

o   Managing & Maintaining Access to Community Services

o   Managing & Maintaining Transportation Needs

o   Managing & Maintaining Regular Routine (e.g., Post Sorting)

o   Managing & Maintaining a Habitable Home Environment (e.g., basic cleaning and tidying)

o   Assisting with Finances

o   Assisting with Essential Shopping

o   Collecting Prescriptions

·        Deliver High-Quality, Regulated Support Including:

o   Managing & Maintaining Hydration (e.g., preparing drinks)

o   Managing & Maintaining Nutrition (e.g., preparing and cooking food)

o   Managing & Maintaining Personal Hygiene (e.g., washing, bathing, grooming)

o   Managing & Maintaining Toileting

o   Managing & Maintaining Medications (Administration & Prompting)

o   Assisting with Mobility & Transfers

o   Assisting with Dressing & Undressing

·        Monitoring health conditions and reporting changes in physical or emotional wellbeing

B. Administration, Record-Keeping, and Digital Compliance

• Maintain & Document all Confidential Records accurately within the Organisation’s Digital Care Hub (DCH), in full compliance with the United Kingdom General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.
• Observe, Document, & Escalate any changes in Service User condition, environment, or risk profile in accordance with the Organisation’s Risk Escalation Framework (REF).
• Respect Confidentiality and Data Protection obligations at all times.

C. Safeguarding, Risk Management, and Duty of Care

• Maintain vigilance for indicators of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or self-neglect, and report any concern without delay in accordance with the Organisation’s Safeguarding Adults Policy, the Care Act 2014, and Local Safeguarding Adults Board Procedures.
• Adhere to the Organisation’s Lone Working Policy, Infection Prevention and Control Procedures, and utilise all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to ensure the safety of self and others.
• Demonstrate a proactive commitment to safe working practices, incident prevention, and professional accountability.

D. Team Collaboration and Continuous Professional Development

• Participate actively in all Multidisciplinary Meetings, Team Briefings, Supervision, and Reflective Practice Sessions.
• Complete all Mandatory Trainings.
• Promote and uphold a positive workplace culture based on the Organisation’s Mentor, Empower, Inspire (MEI) Framework, ensuring mutual respect and collaborative working.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of Service Delivery.

E. Compliance and Governance

The postholder must:

• Uphold the standards of conduct and ethics defined in the Care Quality Commission Code of Practice and Organisation’s Code of Practice & Governance & Quality Assurance Policy.
• Ensure all work duties are carried out in accordance with Health and Safety legislation, Equality Act 2010, and the Organisation’s Operational Policies & Procedures.

F. Core Requirements

• Valid Driving Licence and a Suitable Vehicle for community visits.
• Right to Work in the United Kingdom (Proof Required Prior to Formal Interview).
• Ability to work flexibly, including Evenings, Weekends, and Bank Holidays as required.
• Willingness to undergo Enhanced Disclosure Baring Service prior to commencement of duties.

G. Employee Benefits & Perks

At Central South Services LTD, we are proud to be a forward-thinking and people-focused Organisation, dedicated to delivering exceptional care and support across our Adult Social Care Workforce (ASCW).

We believe in valuing, investing in, and empowering every colleague, creating a workplace culture rooted in respect, support, and opportunity.

Why Join Us? – The Benefits of Working with Central South Services LTD

As part of our Adult Social Care Workforce (ASCW), you’ll benefit from:

✅ Competitive Pay

• Fair & Competitive Hourly Rates
• Regular Pay Reviews & Performance-Based Increases

✅ Training, Development & Qualifications

• Fully Funded NVQ/QCF Diplomas in Health & Social Care (Levels 1–5)
• Access to E-Learning & In-Person Training Modules

✅ Flexible & Supportive Work Environment

• Flexible Working Hours
• Regular Team Meetings, 1:1 Supervision and 1:4 Supervision

✅ Wellbeing & Recognition

• Monthly “Excellence in Care” Awards
• Annual “Excellence in Care” Awards Ceremony
• Employee Long-Service Rewards & Perks

✅ Generous Holiday Entitlement

• 28 Days Paid Annual Leave (+18 Days Long-Service Rewards)

✅ Burnout Breaks – Your Wellbeing Matters

• 10 Days Unpaid Burnout Leave (+18 Days Long-Service Rewards)

✅ Career Sponsorship & National Opportunities

• Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship (UKVI A-Rated Sponsor Licence)
• Progression into Senior, Specialist, Clinical, or Leadership Roles

✅ Uniform, Equipment & Infrastructure

• Leased Uniform & Equipment
• Free Personal Protective Equipment
• Access To “Digital Care Hub” (DCH)

✅ Financial & Lifestyle Perks

• Paid Mileage
• NHS Pension Scheme (NEST)
• Exclusive NHS Discounts & Perks

✅ A Culture of Mentor, Empower, Inspire