Senior Care Assistant reference: R1198265

Opportunity Review: Senior Care Assistant at Bupa Heol Don Care Home, Cardiff

This Senior Care Assistant role at Bupa's Heol Don Care Home in Cardiff presents a significant opportunity for experienced and motivated individuals looking to advance their careers in the care sector. With a strong emphasis on person-centred care, resident well-being, and staff development, this position offers a rewarding path for those passionate about making a real difference.

Advantages for Candidates:

• Career Growth and Development: Bupa is committed to ongoing training, not only in digital care to streamline processes but also in clinical and social care advancements. They actively support staff in achieving qualifications like NVQ3 in care, making this an excellent role for those looking to enhance their professional credentials. The opportunity to mentor and develop junior care staff also provides valuable leadership experience.
• Supportive Environment: The role emphasizes teamwork and a "close-knit team" atmosphere. You'll be working alongside experienced professionals and have the support of a dedicated employer that values its staff. Bupa's commitment to its employees' well-being is evident through its comprehensive Viva programme, offering support across mental, physical, financial, social, and environmental aspects of life.
• Competitive Compensation and Benefits: The advertised hourly rate of £12.75 - £14.34, dependent on experience, is competitive. Beyond salary, Bupa offers a robust benefits package designed to support staff health and financial well-being. This includes:
  • Healthcare Support: Free access to 24/7 health support, including remote GP appointments, physiotherapy, and mental health services through "My Healthcare," along with an annual allowance to redeem against Bupa healthcare products.
  • Financial Well-being: Early access to earned wages via Wagestream, an interest-free annual travel loan, and a pension plan.
  • Work-Life Balance: 28 days of holiday, a sick pay scheme for frontline teams, and family-friendly benefits including parental leave.
  • Perks: Free meals on shift, long service rewards, and discounts at various gyms and fitness facilities.
• Meaningful Work: At its core, this role is about genuinely impacting people's lives. You'll be instrumental in providing kindness, personalized support, and dignity to residents, contributing to their best possible lives. The job description clearly articulates a mission to "help people live longer, healthier, happier lives and making a better world."
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Bupa champions diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. They are a Level 2 Disability Confident Employer, actively aiming to offer interviews to disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Experience and Qualifications: While Bupa is willing to support NVQ3 completion, prior experience in a similar care assistant role is highly valued. Understanding the inherent rewards and challenges of such a position is crucial.
• Leadership and Team Management: This is a Senior role, meaning you will be responsible for not only direct resident care but also for leading, inspiring, and managing a team of Care Assistants. Experience in shift handovers and supervising new staff is essential.
• Clinical Support: The role involves supporting nurses with clinical duties, including medication observation, care plan reviews, and accurate record-keeping. A comfort level and understanding of these responsibilities are necessary.
• Night Shift Commitment: The contract specifies two night shifts per week. Candidates should consider if this pattern aligns with their lifestyle and preferences.
• Passion for Care: Beyond the skills and experience, a genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of others is paramount. The ability to show kindness, provide personalised support, and uphold resident dignity will be key to success in this role.

In summary, this Senior Care Assistant position at Bupa Heol Don offers a compelling combination of professional development, robust benefits, and the chance to be part of a purpose-driven organisation. For individuals with a strong care background and leadership aspirations, this role provides an excellent platform to build a fulfilling career while contributing to the well-being of residents.