Communication and Sensory Coordinator
16 hours per week
£16.03 per hour minimum - hourly rate of pay to be considered based on qualifications and experience.
Permanent (following a successful six-month probationary period)
About the Role
The Northam Care Trust has been providing services for adults with profound and multiple learning and physical disabilities and complex needs for 45 years. We are now seeking a self-motivated and determined individual to lead on the coordination of the communication and sensory development of each individual. This will include the use of Eye Gaze and other Assistive Technology and the development of a Sensory Framework.
This is an exciting time for us, and you would be joining a successful organisation that is well governed with committed staff and quality services.
Main responsibilities:
To lead on the coordination of the communication and sensory development of each individual with profound and multiple learning disabilities and complex needs living in our residential Lodges. To develop the use of Eye Gaze and other Assistive Technology in day to day practice. To assist the development of a Sensory Framework on our sites in Northam and Bideford. To increase the quality of life and wellbeing of the people we support and care for. To contribute to our Personalisation agenda.
Main tasks:
To work with clients, care and support staff and families on the introduction of Eye Gaze and other Assistive Technology in assisting people with very limited communication abilities and little or no speech to make choices and to take more control of their lives with real outcomes.
To lead on the assessment and development of communication tools and the cognitive capabilities of each individual living in our residential Lodges. To develop this work as part of our normal programmes of support. To contribute to care and support plans.
To work with each staff team in delivering 1 and 2 above but also fulfilling the role of trainer for colleagues.
To contribute with colleagues to the development in practice of a Sensory Framework. This includes individual programmes for clients and the development of the internal and external environments at all sites.
To work with colleagues to constantly improve the quality of person centred individual support in developing a Good Life for each individual. To liaise with Activity Coordinators.
To undertake programme and resource audits as necessary. To contribute to research projects.
To be aware of the work of other professionals including visiting Speech Therapists, and to coordinate Eye Gaze and other developments with this.
To contribute to individual and organisational risk assessments for all existing and extended developments.
To work with the Senior Management Team and Service Managers on identifying enhancements and added value for our support to individuals and our service developments.
Other Duties
As this is a new role and the organisation will be modifying its business and strategic planning along with new income streams and service and project opportunities then there are likely to be some additional duties and tasks as the role develops.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Experience of working on communication, sensory and new technology development for and with individuals who have a wide range of support needs.
Experience of assessing the individual needs of clients with complex communication difficulties.
Experience in and knowledge of the social care, education or health sectors.
Direct experience of working with stakeholders including parents, carers, care managers, commissioners.
IT capable and experienced.
Excellent written communication ability.
Conceptual ability and common sense.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to work as a team member and a lone worker with individuals.
Flexibility, adaptability, patience, honesty and integrity and the ability to work to TNCT Organisational Excellence-Values and Behaviours Code of Practice (attached).
Excellent organisational skills.
QUALIFICATIONS
We would expect a recognised qualification in either the social care, education or health sectors. We would be flexible on our approach to the right combination of work experience and qualifications in the social care, education or health sectors relevant to the role. This could include a relevant undergraduate or postgraduate degree.
How to Apply:
APPLICANTS MUST BE BASED IN THE UK AND HAVE RIGHT TO WORK STATUS TO APPLY. WE CANNOT OFFER SPONSORSHIP.
Online Application Form (preferable) - Click Here (opens in another window).
CV’s or downloaded application form (available at the top of the page) can be emailed to hr@northamcaretrust.co.uk.
Postal applications can be sent to – HR, The Northam Care Trust, Rose Hill, Heywood Road, Bideford, Devon EX39 3PG.