How do I find the right Support Worker?

Finding the right support worker can be hard.

Having someone working with you on a personal level is a big deal.

Knowing that you will get along, they can be trusted, and you know they will do everything that is needed.

I appreciate during the initial “finding them” stage can be overwhelming and seem like it is never going to happen.

You will find someone that fits with you and what you need, keep going!

When I am looking for new “providers” or “Support workers” I have found being upfront when “interviewing” people helps. This is what I do over the phone so I can get through my list quickly. I will only meet people I have “shortlisted” and see how their personality meets with my child’s and mine.

Essentially you have to feel comfortable with someone who is working closely with you/your child. If for some reason I feel uneasy, I trust my intuition and do not go with them. I keep looking.

This is where your Support Coordinator can help you find someone who you may like.

Remember you are their “boss”, you are “hiring” their services, you have a say in who you work with. Please remember that.

Keep going and looking, they are out there waiting for you xx

Where do I go to post advertisements for support workers?

I have thought about this question myself. This is when you self-manage this part of the budget and want to employ someone to meet a component of the NDIS Plan.

I have seen posts that suggest the following sites:

It was suggested to use the word ‘Casual’.

Make sure each Support Worker has:

  • an ABN, registered and current (ABN Lookup is handy)
  • Security Clearances ie Children’s, Disability & Police
  • First Aid Certificate incl CPR.
  • Current Insurances ie Public Liability, Indemnity Insurances
  • References, please do call and speak to them

Remember to treat this as you are the employer hiring someone to work for you. Because this is exactly what the situation is.

I would encourage you to have interview questions, criteria, and scenario’s set out to be prepared and work out who you are after and what their role is exactly.

Disclaimer: at the time of writing this information, all contents were true and correct based on personal lived experience. Please note that is a guide only and over time they may change their processes and some information contained in this article may become void and irrelevant. If in doubt, please go directly to the source, NDIS to seek clarity and clarification.