A support worker is a professional who helps people with disability or older people manage everyday tasks, maintain independence and participate in daily life at home and in the community. Support workers may assist with personal care, household tasks, community activities and other practical support depending on a person’s needs.
Support workers often work with older people, people living with disability and others who may need assistance with daily routines.
Key points
Support workers commonly:
- assist with everyday tasks and routines
- help people maintain independence
- provide support at home or in the community
- adapt support to suit individual needs
- build supportive and respectful working relationships
What does a support worker do?
Support workers can assist with many different types of everyday support. The exact tasks will depend on the needs of the person receiving support.
Common types of support may include:
- personal care
- help with household tasks
- companionship
- community access
- transport to appointments or activities
- help maintaining routines at home
The goal of this support is usually to help people maintain independence and continue participating in daily life.
Who do support workers support?
Support workers may provide assistance to a wide range of people, including:
- older people who would like support at home
- people living with disability
- people who need help with everyday routines
- people who would like assistance participating in community activities
The type and level of support can vary depending on individual circumstances.
Where do support workers provide support?
Support workers commonly provide support in places such as:
- a person’s home
- the local community
- social activities or appointments
- community locations such as shops or events
Support is often tailored to the person’s daily routine and preferences.
What skills do support workers usually have?
Support workers may bring a combination of practical experience, training and personal qualities that help them provide effective support.
Important qualities often include:
- reliability
- clear communication
- respect for personal routines and preferences
- patience and flexibility
- the ability to support people in a safe and supportive way
The most important factor is often finding a worker whose approach feels comfortable and suitable for the person receiving support.
How do support workers support independence?
A key aim of support work is helping people maintain independence where possible.
This might involve:
- assisting with tasks rather than taking over completely
- supporting people to remain active in the community
- helping maintain routines and daily activities
- encouraging confidence and participation
The level of support can be adapted to suit the person’s goals and preferences.
Frequently asked questions
What is a support worker?
A support worker is someone who helps people with everyday tasks so they can live more independently at home or in the community.
What does a support worker do?
Support workers may assist with personal care, domestic tasks, companionship, community access and other daily support needs.
Who do support workers help?
Support workers may assist older people, people living with disability or anyone who needs support with daily routines.
Where do support workers provide support?
Support workers often provide support at home, in the community or when attending activities and appointments.
Is a support worker the same as a carer?
Many people use the term carer when searching for support. In professional settings, the role is often referred to as a support worker or aged care worker.
Find Disability Support Workers
Read: What Do Careseekers Support Workers Help With?
Read: What Qualifications or Experience Do Careseekers Workers Have?
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