Care Assistant reference: R1198991

Opportunity Review: Care Assistant at Wilmington Manor Care Home

Wilmington Manor Care Home, located in Dartford, Kent, is seeking dedicated Care Assistants to join their team. This role offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the well-being of residents in a setting that emphasizes a homely and supportive environment. With a strong CQC rating of 'Good' and an impressive Carehome.co.uk score of 9.6/10, Wilmington Manor demonstrates a commitment to high-quality care.

This is a permanent contract offering 33 hours per week on day shifts, with a competitive hourly rate of £12.25, negotiable based on experience. The home specializes in residential, nursing, respite, convalescence, and palliative care, fostering a peaceful atmosphere for its residents.

Key Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Meaningful Work: Directly contribute to "helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives" as part of Bupa's overarching purpose. This role offers a profound sense of fulfillment by making a tangible difference in residents' lives.
• Supportive Environment: Wilmington Manor is described as having a real sense of community, where staff actively discover and cater to residents' interests through a vibrant social calendar. Dedicated activity coordinators ensure residents can pursue hobbies and enjoy a range of engaging activities.
• Person-Centred Care: The role emphasizes providing person-centred care that supports independence and honours resident choice. This approach allows for more individualized and rewarding interactions.
• Excellent Reputation: Working for a home with a 'Good' CQC rating and a high Carehome.co.uk score indicates a commitment to quality and resident satisfaction, a strong selling point for any career.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Bupa offers a robust benefits package designed to support employee well-being, including:
  • Viva Wellbeing Programme: Holistic support covering mental, physical, financial, social, and environmental health.
  • My Healthcare: Free 24/7 access to health support, including remote GP appointments, physiotherapy, and mental health services.
  • Annual Health Allowance: A £350 allowance redeemable against Bupa healthcare products.
  • Early Wage Access: Wagestream allows access to up to 40% of earned wages.
  • Generous Holiday Entitlement: 28 days of holiday.
  • Sick Pay Scheme: Additional support beyond statutory sick pay for frontline teams.
  • Long Service Rewards: Recognition for loyalty with ecards, extra holidays, and monetary rewards.
  • Free Meals: Provided on every shift.
  • Travel Loan: Interest-free loan for annual public transport season tickets.
  • Pension Plans: Access to Bupa pension schemes.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: Including parental leave schemes.
  • Menopause Plan: Dedicated support for women.
  • Gym & Fitness Discounts: Access to a wide range of facilities across the UK.
• Inclusive Culture: Bupa champions diversity and encourages employees to "Be you at Bupa." They are a Level 2 Disability Confident Employer, committed to offering interviews to disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria and providing reasonable adjustments.
• Career Growth: While not explicitly detailed, working within a large organization like Bupa often presents opportunities for professional development and advancement within the care sector.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Varied Responsibilities: The role involves supporting residents with a wide range of needs, from companionship to personal care, requiring adaptability and a compassionate approach.
• Documentation & Reporting: A key aspect of the job involves observing and reporting changes in residents' behaviour and health, requiring attention to detail and adherence to legislative requirements.
• Nutritional Support: Assisting residents with their nutrition and hydration needs is a critical part of the care provided, necessitating an understanding of dietary plans and resident preferences.
• Stimulation & Engagement: Providing physical and mental stimulation through activities is essential, requiring creativity and the ability to engage residents both individually and in groups.
• Experience & Qualifications: While motivation and strong interpersonal skills are essential, previous experience in a care home or a Health and Social Care qualification is desirable, indicating that candidates with these attributes may have a stronger application.

Career Path Guidance:

This Care Assistant position is an excellent starting point for individuals passionate about care and seeking a stable, fulfilling career. The role provides hands-on experience in a supportive and well-regarded care setting. For those looking to advance, further qualifications in Health and Social Care can open doors to more senior care roles, specialized care (e.g., dementia care, end-of-life care), or supervisory positions within Bupa or other healthcare organizations. The emphasis on person-centred care and resident engagement also provides valuable experience for aspiring activity coordinators or care managers. The comprehensive benefits and commitment to employee well-being at Bupa suggest a long-term career prospect for dedicated individuals.