What does a disability support worker do?
Whether in a clinic, hospital or in-home care environment, a disability support worker provides emotional support, physical assistance and companionship for their clients. Some of the more specific duties a support worker may perform in the course of their day may include assisting with medication, performing domestic chores, washing and toileting, providing emotional support, liaising with client’s family and friends, assisting the patient with physical therapy and creating care programs.
Tasks:
- Assisting a client to self-administer medication
- Planning enrichment activities
- Facilitating transport and mobility for clients
- Planning a daily itinerary and care program
What skills do I need to be a disability support worker?
Becoming a disability support worker requires a personable demeanour, social awareness, tact and an overall love and dedication to the job and those you care for. Support workers are responsible for the health and safety of their patients. This can make disability support work a demanding job both physically and emotionally. It requires a person to show understanding, composure, tact and perseverance in the face of emotional and physical obstacles.
- Good communication and listening skills
- Ability to maintain positive relationships with patients
- Patience and understanding
- Physical fitness
Specialisations
There are a number of different opportunities a support worker may choose to pursue. Depending on their personal strengths, interests and employer, the working environment a disability support worker operates in can vary greatly. Many support workers who are passionate about patient care and wellbeing move on to study nursing later in their career.
Attendant Care Worker
Home Care Worker
Disability Services Instructor
Study pathways for disability support workers
No formal qualifications are required to become a disability support worker. On the job training is generally provided. However, prior experience in a similar field or obtaining qualifications in disability work can make you a more appealing candidate for employment.
Getting Started
Decide how you’d like to begin your career in the health industry.
Skill Building
Get industry knowledge and develop the skills you will need to be a disability support worker.
Professional Development
Work towards gaining practical skills and a wealth of knowledge that will boost your career prospects.
Industry Recognition
Some positions may require you to have prior experience and qualifications in support work. A Working with Children check and a Working with Vulnerable People check are necessary for engaging in work in the care sector.
Getting a job after graduation
Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your disability services career. Target your learning to the career you want and put your best foot forward when you apply for disability services jobs