Are you passionate about providing care and support for people with physical and/or intellectual disabilities? If you have a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of others, a career as a disability worker could be highly rewarding.
Disability support workers generally work in hospitals, specialised care clinics and residential settings to provide personal, physical and emotional care and supervision for people with physical and/or intellectual disabilities. From assisting with the self-administration of medication, to planning enrichment activities, daily duties can vary depending on the individual needs of clients.
The future for aged and disability carers is predicted to grow very strongly over the next 5 years, with the number of workers increasing from 175,800 in 2018 to 245,000 by 2023.
Learn how to become a disability support worker with a cert 3 in individual support from MyPath Education.
Have the Right Qualities
Care and Compassion
It goes without saying that support workers require a caring and compassionate nature. A passion for helping others is often what draws people to this industry. The role can be emotionally demanding, so a dedication to the job and commitment to helping people with disabilities live dignified lives are essential.
Good Communication and Listening Skills
Working as a disability support worker requires excellent communication skills and the ability to maintain positive relationships. This client-centred role doesn’t just involve listening to and communicating with your client – you’ll also need to liaise with their family and friends and collaborate with other health care practitioners.
Physical Competence
Depending on the needs of the individual you’re providing care for, this role can also be physically demanding. You may be required to provide physical assistance with daily activities like getting out of bed, getting into a wheelchair, toileting and showering as well as helping with physical therapy. Disability support workers require a level of fitness and strength to perform these more physical tasks.
Get Qualified
While you can work as a disability support worker without formal qualifications, many employers in Australia require you to complete a disability support worker course such as a Certificate III in Individual Support.
A cert 3 in individual support teaches you how to support clients’ independence and wellbeing while working legally and ethically and following safe work practices. This disability support course combines theory and 120 hours of work placement, providing valuable real-world experience to prepare you for a role as a qualified disability support worker.
Upon successful completion of a cert 3 focused on disability support, you’ll be competent to provide care to people who may require support due to ageing, disability or other reasons.
Enquire online today or call our friendly and helpful team on (07) 3489 7777 to learn more about the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing, Disability, Home & Community).