There are many careers Aussies can go after that offer real job satisfaction but not as many are as truly rewarding as a career in disability support. If you’re unsure what’s involved in this job role and whether it would be a good fit for you, read on and discover more about what a disability support worker does, how they can make a difference, and why the job role is so rewarding.
What is a Disability Support Worker?
As the title suggests, a disability support worker offers ongoing support and assistance to individuals living with a permanent disability, or people recovering from an injury or serious illness. Many people with a disability face various daily challenges and your role will be to help them with those challenges.
Where Does a Disability Support Worker Work?
Quite often, as a disability support worker, you’ll find yourself working within the home of the person living with a disability. This important position is not just confined to peoples’ homes though. You may find yourself helping out within a hospital or clinic, or perhaps even a community center.
At other times, you might be accompanying a person with a disability on an outdoor excursion for exercise or social activities. The job can be quite varied in this way.
The Role of a Disability Support Worker
So, what are the main responsibilities of someone working as a disability support worker?
Essentially, everything you do will be helping to make a positive difference in the lives of those you work with. Your job is basically to make their life easier by assisting them with everyday tasks, along with helping with mobility issues and other tasks.
For example, if you’re working in the home of an individual, you will be assisting them when they need physical assistance, possibly running them through exercise or rehabilitation routines, helping them take a shower if needed, and other important tasks. Other things you may be doing are household chores, helping to prepare meals, going out and running errands, accompanying your charge whenever they need to go outdoors or be somewhere.
Not only does your role of disability support worker involve accomplishing a variety of tasks, but you’ll also be there for emotional support and be a friend and confidante.
How This Job Can Be Rewarding
If you’re a people person and you have a strong desire to help others and make a difference, then a career in disability support will give you the ultimate job satisfaction. With every day you work, with every person, you help, and with every task you do, you will be making a difference in someone’s life.
Not only is a career in disability support extremely rewarding personally, but it can provide you with a comfortable living as well. The average wage for someone working in disability support is above $60k per year and as your experience increases, you can expect your salary to increase accordingly. Even entry-level positions are well above $50k annually.
It’s a Job With Loads of Variety
You’ll never feel bored or stale in your role as a disability support worker. Each day will present new challenges and you’ll often find yourself working in different locations, environments, and with a variety of clients.
How To Gain An Entry-Level Qualification As a Disability Support Worker
To gain entry to this exciting career path, you will first need to obtain a basic qualification to get started. Cert 3 Disability support is the qualification you’ll want.
There are no formal entry requirements to partake in the CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability). You can complete the entire course in as little as 12 months if you study full time or, if you have other commitments, you can complete your studies part-time over 24 months. There is a requirement of a minimum of 120 hours of work placement during your studies, so you can receive supervised on-the-job training.
The course is quite flexible and you can set your own pace and schedule. Once you’ve completed the course, you can apply for entry-level positions in the industry.
The Wrap
If you’re looking for a job that’s diverse and both personally and financially rewarding, then a career as a disability support worker might just be what you’re searching for.
