Care Assistant reference: R1198917

Opportunity Review: Care Assistant at The Sidcup Care Home

This presents a compelling opportunity for aspiring and experienced Care Assistants to join a highly-rated care home, The Sidcup, which is dedicated to providing excellent nursing and residential care. With a strong emphasis on creating a warm, homely, and modern environment, this role offers the chance to be a vital part of a team committed to enhancing the lives of residents.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Reputable Environment: The Sidcup Care Home boasts a "Good" CQC rating and an impressive 9.6/10 rating on Carehome.co.uk, indicating a high standard of care and resident satisfaction. This is a significant indicator of a well-managed and supportive workplace.
• Competitive Remuneration and Stability: The role offers a competitive hourly rate of £12.25 - £13.25, dependent on experience, and a permanent contract. This provides financial security and a long-term career prospect.
• Exceptional Facilities: The purpose-built home is equipped with modern comforts, including en-suite facilities in all bedrooms, a cinema lounge, extensive gardens, a hairdressing salon, and private lounges. These amenities contribute to a positive living and working environment.
• Holistic Resident Care: The home's commitment to person-centred care is evident in its comprehensive approach. This includes on-site GP visits, physiotherapy, chiropody, and a chef who tailors menus to individual dietary needs and preferences, ensuring a high quality of life for residents.
• Enriching Activities: A diverse range of organised activities, from quizzes and bingo to trips out and holistic therapies like aromatherapy, ensures residents remain engaged and stimulated. As a Care Assistant, you will play a key role in facilitating these enjoyable experiences.
• Strong Company Values and Purpose: Working for Bupa aligns with a clear purpose of "helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives." The company's values of being Brave, Caring, and Responsible are integrated into their operations, fostering a supportive and inclusive culture.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Bupa offers an attractive benefits package designed to support employee wellbeing, including:
  • Viva Wellbeing Programme: A holistic approach to health, covering mental, physical, financial, social, and environmental aspects.
  • My Healthcare: Free 24/7 access to a range of health support, including remote GP appointments, physiotherapy, and mental health services.
  • Annual Healthcare Allowance: A £350 allowance for Bupa healthcare products.
  • Wagestream: Early access to up to 40% of earned wages.
  • Generous Holiday Entitlement: 28 days of holiday.
  • Sick Pay Scheme: Additional sick pay for frontline teams.
  • Long Service Rewards: Recognition and rewards for milestones.
  • Free Meals: Provided on every shift.
  • Interest-Free Travel Loan: For annual public transport season tickets.
  • Pension Plans: Access to Bupa pension schemes.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: Including parental leave schemes.
  • Menopause Support: A plan designed to empower women's health.
  • Gym and Fitness Discounts: Access to discounts across the UK.
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Bupa champions diversity and encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds. They are a Level 2 Disability Confident Employer, committed to offering interviews to disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria and providing reasonable adjustments.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Core Responsibilities: The role involves providing personal care, companionship, monitoring resident behaviour and reporting changes, supporting nutrition and hydration, and facilitating physical and mental stimulation through activities. A genuine passion for care and excellent interpersonal skills are essential.
• Documentation and Legislation: Maintaining accurate care plans in line with regulatory and legal requirements is a crucial part of the role. Candidates should be prepared for diligent record-keeping.
• Teamwork and Independence: While the role requires strong team collaboration, the ability to work independently and take initiative is also valued.
• Desirable Qualifications: Previous experience in a care home setting or a Health and Social Care qualification is advantageous, though not strictly mandatory. Candidates with transferable skills and a strong willingness to learn will be considered.
• Career Growth: Bupa's focus on employee development and their purpose-driven culture suggests opportunities for growth and learning within the organisation for those who demonstrate dedication and commitment.

This Care Assistant position at The Sidcup Care Home, supported by Bupa, offers a rewarding career path for individuals who are motivated, compassionate, and seeking to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. The combination of a positive working environment, excellent facilities, a robust benefits package, and a strong company mission makes this an attractive opportunity for those dedicated to providing high-quality care.