Community Support Worker – Community Services Career
The community support worker has a significant role in the community. The worker’s job description clearly states that he or she holds a supportive health care position where the worker is accountable for making a positive, active environment for those with disabilities at group homes and daycare centers. They also support participation in these programs, aiming to help clients improve social, mental, and physical capabilities. As part of the services they render, they provide direct assistance to clients with their needs, such as assistance with bathing, toileting, mobility, dressing, meal preparation, light housekeeping, personal care, and toileting. Some may also perform specialized tasks such as administering medicine, assisting patients with the telephone, assisting in applying for public assistance, or aiding clients with self-feeding. Career Options for Community Support Worker, employment for a community support worker can be found in various environments, including private organizations, government agencies, health care facilities, and schools. There are employment opportunities in hospitals and nursing homes where medical professionals render help to individuals who require such assistance. Many nurses and health care assistants also have options for career advancement within the health care industry. The physical therapy field provides a good variety of job opportunities for trained in both the nursing and physical therapy fields. Community Support Worker Training The training is usually a combination of classroom learning, hands-on training, and experience in a clinical setting. Those who complete this training get placement in several career positions. Career choices range from the Director of Community Services to the Program Manager for a Long-Term Care facility. The career options depend upon the particular needs of the individual clients, the training received, and the community support workers’ abilities. A Community Support Worker’s career may begin at a local center or agency that helps people find employment or get off public assistance. Once the individual has gained certification, they may move onto an office job performing specific job duties. Career opportunities can include supervising staff at a veteran’s facility, assisting teachers with classrooms, or working in a clinic. Agency Referrals Employment for a community support worker can vary depending on the needs of the agency. Many agencies help clients with finding work by providing referrals to companies in need of workers. The majority of these positions pay hourly wages, but some positions are based on a combination of salary and commission. Most community works can find a position through the agency referrals program.