At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with complex mental health needs and promote their independence.
- Company: Join a dedicated team at SCHADS Home Care in Wollongong.
- Benefits: Flexible shifts, competitive pay, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Be a vital part of someone's journey to better mental health and wellbeing.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health support and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 $ per year.
- Mental Health - Community Support Worker
- Mental Health & Disability Support Workers
- Wollongong, NSW
- SCHADS Home Care - Disability - Level 2
We are seeking experienced Mental Health & Disability Support Workers to support participants with complex mental health needs across the Wollongong region.
Applicants must have availability for shifts ranging between 4-10 hours per day.
About the Role
- You will be supporting participants with complex mental health conditions, including:
- Co-occurring alcohol and drug use
- Psychosocial disability and complex behavioural needs
- Children with ASD
- Non-verbal support (Personal care also required)
Support will involve working in dynamic environments where participants may experience distress, emotional dysregulation, or periods of mental health deterioration.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide person-centred mental health support in line with individual care plans
- Supervise and prompt medication administration in accordance with protocols
- Implement Positive Behaviour Support Plans (BSPs), including proactive and reactive strategies
- Use de-escalation techniques, low-arousal communication, and emotional regulation skills during periods of distress
- Work confidently in environments where substance use may be present, applying harm-minimisation approaches and professional boundaries
- Recognise early warning signs and follow escalation pathways, including contacting emergency services when required
- Maintain accurate, objective documentation including case notes, incident reports, and handovers
- Communicate effectively with the wider support team and management
- Respect participant choice and control, including the right to refuse support
- Assistance with personal care and manual handling when required
- Assist with daily living tasks to promote independence
- Demonstrated experience supporting individuals with complex mental health needs, ASD, AOD, and/or behavioural challenges
- Strong emotional regulation skills and calm, professional communication style
- Experience implementing Behaviour Support Plans and following safety protocols
- Ability to work independently and within a team in high-pressure environments
- NDIS Worker Screening Check (or willingness to obtain)
- First Aid & CPR (or willingness to obtain)
- Valid Driver's License and reliable vehicle (mandatory)
Mental Health - Community Support Worker in Wollongong employer: Essential Workforce
Essential Workforce offers a supportive work environment for Mental Health & Disability Support Workers, focusing on person-centred care for individuals with complex mental health needs. The company values flexibility in scheduling and provides opportunities for professional development through hands-on experience in dynamic settings. Employees can expect to work collaboratively within a team while also having the autonomy to manage individual care plans.
