Support Worker - Heathcote Service

Mō mātou | About Hōhepa

Working at Hōhepa, is different from the average, you become part of our community of people, staff, volunteers, and contractors who all have a common goal - helping people to reach their full potential and lead enriched and meaningful lives in a holistic, supportive environment. We are a community leader providing services and support for people living with an intellectual disability to live their best lives and find a valued place in our society. Inspired by Dr Rudolf Steiner’s principles of anthroposophy, we seek to understand each person and situation as unique, not a one size fits all philosophy. 

Mō te tūranga | About the Role

Heathcote Service is located in Somerfield at the Hōhepa main campus and is home to a young lady Rose supporting her on a 1:1 basis.

Rose is a social, observant, and engaging young person who enjoys being around others and taking part in a variety of activities. She loves swimming (with full support), water play, baking, and getting out into the community. Rose is very sensitive to others’ tone and body language, so she responds best to support workers who are calm, cheerful, and consistent in their approach.

For comfort and safety, Rose requires transport in a specific vehicle. As part of her support, you will be actively involved in her daily routines—encouraging participation in activities, offering reassurance, and helping to create a positive, fun, and safe environment.

Routine and familiarity are important to help Rose feel settled. She requires full assistance with personal care and uses a wheelchair for mobility, though she is encouraged and supported to walk when she is able. At times, Rose may display behaviours that can be challenging, so a patient, steady, and confident approach is essential to support her well.

You will be energetic, empathetic and able to work alongside this person focussing on creating a life of rich and diverse experiences while being able to read situations, problem solve and apply boundaries or offer space. 

Daily tasks include supporting with daily routines while encouraging independence to develop skills and personal growth. You will have the confidence to support personal cares, cooking, medication administration, and household tasks. You will be passionate about supporting and extending people’s ability to access and be part of their wider community. If you are looking for a new challenge this could be the opportunity for you. 

This position's salary scale is set by pay equity and dependant on qualification level, pays between $23.95 and $29.10 per hour.

Nga haora kua tohua | Rostered hours:

Position 1

Week 1

• No Shifts

Week 2

• Sunday 7am to 4pm

• Tuesday 4pm to 9:30pm, 9:30pm to 7am (Sleepover)

• Wednesday 7am to 9am

• Thursday 4pm to 9:30pm, 9:30pm to 7am (Sleepover)

• Friday 7am to 9am, 4pm to 9:30pm, 9:30pm to 7am (Sleepover)

• Saturday 7am to 4pm

Hands on hours: 38.5 | Sleepover hours: 28.5

Total Hours per fortnight: 67

Position 2

Week 1

• Sunday 7am to 4pm

• Tuesday 4pm to 9:30pm, 9:30pm to 7am (Sleepover)

• Wednesday 7am to 9am, 4pm to 9:30pm, 9:30pm to 7am (Sleepover)

• Thursday 7am to 4pm

• Saturday 4pm to 9:30pm, 9:30pm to 7am (Sleepover)

Week 2

• No Shifts

Hands on hours: 36.5 | Sleepover hours: 28.5

Total Hours per fortnight: 65

Please state which position you wish to apply for in the screening questions

Mō koe | About You

Your aroha and approach is what really matters at Hōhepa – previous experience is not a prerequisite because we provide on-the-job training. You will either be an experienced Support Worker looking for a change or you are simply looking for a career where your enthusiasm and passion for helping others will make a real difference in people’s lives. To thrive in a Support Worker role at Hōhepa you will be:

• Self-motivated, energetic and flexible with a high level of initiative. 

• A team player - Work closely with and supporting your colleagues, creating a great team environment.

• A kind nature with a can-do attitude and willingness to learn and continue to develop your skills as a support worker. 

• A commitment to upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in all aspects of the role. 

Nga hua o te mahi ki a Hōhepa | Benefits of working at Hōhepa

At Hōhepa, as part of our team you will:

• Have certainty of hours through fixed rosters

• Enjoy a great person to-staff ratio, allowing for more personalised support

• Work in a fun, friendly and supportive team environment

• Receive ongoing support for your professional and career development

• Support to complete a NZQF Certificate in Health and Wellbeing level, 2, 3 or 4

• Long service leave 

• Christchurch City Council Gym and Pool Membership discounts

• Untamed Organic Vegetable discount

Applicants will be progressed as they apply, so if this sounds like you, please apply now! 

Applicants must have a NZ full driver’s licence and ability to work in New Zealand.

Please note that the 90-day trial period will apply to any successful applicant who hasn’t previously worked for Hōhepa Canterbury

At Hōhepa the role of a Support Coordinator is what is often referred to in the wider healthcare sector as a Support Worker. We feel that the title Support Coordinator better reflects the nature of the role, which requires working in partnership with the people receiving support to ensure we are achieving our organisation mission of every life fully lived.