Almond Mains Initiative – Job Description

Post:ActivitiesCoordinator/ Social Care Assistant

Employer:Almond Mains Initiative

Responsible to:Manager, on a day-to-day basis; ultimately to

Almond Mains Initiative Management Committee.

Purpose of the Job:

To assist with the provision of a social day care service for elderly people living in the Cramond , Barnton, Cammo,Davidson’s Mains and Silverknowes areas of Edinburgh. The Activities Coordinatorwill develop and assist with activities which meet member’s individual and collective interests and abilities, provide practical help and support for members and carry out administrative tasks relating to the organisation and delivery of the service.

Main Tasks and Responsibilities:

The post holder will:

  • Assist with the organisation and delivery of the Almond Mains Club;
  • Deputise for the Manager during periods of absence, holidays and sickness;
  • Undertake training as required for the post.
  • Help create an atmosphere at the club which encourages independence, dignity and social interaction;
  • Plan, develop and deliver, in conjunction with the Manager and a small team of volunteers, a programme of appropriate activities, in consultation with club members, taking into account their individual needs, interests and abilities;
  • Assist the Manager to identify appropriate speakers/tutors;
  • Carry out escort duties, incorporating the collection and return of members to their homes, and assisting members on outings;
  • Assist members, as appropriate, with care requirements;
  • Assist the Manager with ongoing assessment and reviews carried out with club members;
  • Identify and record issues and problems being faced by club members and carers;
  • Record accurately any financial transactions undertaken on behalf of the Almond Mains Initiative.
  • Take part in, and help with the organisation of fundraising events and initiatives which will benefit club members;
  • Maintain confidentiality at all times;
  • Ensure the safety and well being of members and volunteers by observing health and safety policy and procedures;
  • Carry out any other reasonable duties necessary for the smooth running of the club.
  • This job description is not restrictive and will be reviewed as required.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • The post holder should have a genuine interest in and aptitude for, working with elderly people and have a good understanding of issues and difficulties which affect their quality of life.
  • Experience of caring in either a professional, voluntary or personal capacity, is essential.
  • Experience of working in a community setting, as a volunteer, or with volunteers would be useful.
  • The ability to initiate and contribute to the planning, development and organisation of activities.
  • Some administrative experience is required; including a basic level of competence in computer skills.A good general standard of education is essential. SVQs in Social Care or other relevant qualifications, such as nursing, care assistant, social work or related fields are desirable.

Conditions of Service

  • Duration of the post: The appointment will be on a one year rolling basis and dependent at all times on funding being available to continue the post.
  • Hours: 19 hours per week. 4 hours on Mondays, in an administrative and development capacity and 7 and a half hours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, assisting in the delivery the service.
  • Salary: The salary for the post will be £8.398 per annum (hourly rate of £8.50 per hour.) Salary will be paid monthly,directly into an appropriate bank account and be subject to annualreview. The post,at current levels, is non-pensionable.
  • Annual Leave: 10 working days per year, (equivalent of 5 weeks,) of which 4 working days(2 weeks) will and must be taken over the Christmas/New Year period, when the club is closed. Remaining holiday leave will be by arrangement with the Manager.
  • A three month probationary period will apply. During this period, the employee’s performance will be assessed with the Manager against agreed targets. Assessment carried out at the end of the period will determine the employee’s suitability for the job. During this period the employer or employee may give one week’s notice.
  • Termination of Employment: The period of notice for termination of the post is one month, for both employee and employer.
  • Equal Opportunities: The Almond Mains Initiative is an equal opportunities employer. Staff will be expected to further equal opportunities in all aspects of their work.
  • Disclosure Check: This post will be subject to the appropriate level of disclosure check.

June 2015