Working as a disability support carer is one of the most rewarding things a person can do. As a disability carer, you are able to make a positive difference in someone’s life and assist them with everyday tasks. As well as help them live their best lives and achieve their goals.
Working with disabled people can be hugely rewarding, but what does it really take to become a disability carer? And how do you become a successful carer?
How to become a disability support carer
To become a disability support worker you will need to complete a Certificate 3 in Individual Support (disability). This course provides you with training on infection control, manual handling and Provide First Aid.
Furthermore, HITsa Training & Employment offer this course on a rolling intake. Students can complete the course over 7 weeks full time or part time.
Qualities of a successful disability carer
The qualities needed to become a great disability support worker are more than just good communication skills, hardworking etc. Caring for someone in need or someone vulnerable takes a special type of person. You need to show care, empathy, commitment and so much more. Here are some of the key qualities you’ll need to be a successful carer.
Empathetic
As a disability support carer, you must be able to show empathy. Putting yourself in their shoes and learning to understand what it feels like for them will help you to recognise what care they truly need. Being aware of their difficulties and hurdles will enable you to provide tailored, effective care.
Patient
If you have ever spent time with a disabled person, you may know that simple tasks can often be more difficult and take longer to complete. As a carer, you must be patient and be able to handle situations calmly. Becoming frustrated will only upset the individual and most likely cause them to become irritated. Remain calm, be patient and always be encouraging.
Passionate
Working as a disability support worker can be both demanding and rewarding. And you may find it mentally and physically challenging at times. However, being passionate about your job will enable you to provide the best care possible. As well as make you strive to help people live to their fullest ability. Enjoying your role and caring about what you do as a disability worker will make completing tasks a lot easier for both yourself and your patients.
Positive Attitude
As a disability carer, you are working with vulnerable people. Some may struggle with low moods or maybe even depression. So, it’s important to ensure you have a positive can-do attitude and try your best to reflect positively on them. It could be as simple as communicating with them about their life, interests or anything else. Maybe even joke around and try make them laugh. Simple things like that can better their day and make them feel important, because they are.
Think Outside the Box
Your role as a disability support worker is to help people reach their goals. This means having a positive can do attitude and encouraging/helping them try new things. This could be supporting them in joining a new club, ordering their food on their own or helping them cook their own food. Your job is to support your client to do what they want and help them make it happen. It may not be achievable all at once, but that’s something you can both work towards.
Be a successful disability carer and enjoy your job!
Furthermore, working as a disability support carer is an important role. You get to help people achieve things they never imagined. As well as help them to feel confident, independent and included in society. To become a successful carer you will need key personal qualities such as; empathetic, patient, positive and passionate. Enjoying your job and loving what you do will also reflect greatly on your patients and the care you provide. At the end of the day, all you want to do is help them achieve their goals and get the most they can out of life.
Furthermore, complete the required training and apply these qualities. This will help you to become a great disability support worker and enable you to provide the best care possible to people in need.
Lastly, Register your interest in a Certificate III in Individual Support online today. Or call our friendly staff on 8375 2800 for more information.