Disability Support Worker

About the organisation

The Puhinui Homes Trust is a small, welcoming, family-focused residential service that supports people with intellectual disabilities. Residents are kept at the heart of decision-making, with their views actively sought for both everyday routines and service improvements. The organisation also values close involvement from families and friends, helping to create a supportive, inclusive setting. Its goal is to deliver tailored residential support that promotes dignity, independence, and overall well-being, with a professional team working alongside residents and their families.

Role overview

This full-time, on-site position in Auckland is responsible for assisting residents with intellectual disabilities in their day-to-day lives. The work includes personal care, support with household and daily activities, and encouragement to take part in community life. A key part of the role is helping residents make choices, build independence, and pursue personal interests and goals.

Key duties

• Support residents with everyday routines, personal care, and domestic activities.
• Put individual support plans into practice and adjust support in line with residents’ changing needs.
• Observe and record residents’ well-being accurately and promptly.
• Communicate clearly with residents, family members, and the broader support team.
• Help maintain a safe, respectful, and home-like environment.
• Assist with medication support when trained and authorised to do so.
• Respond appropriately to changes in a resident’s condition or circumstances.
• Work closely with colleagues to deliver consistent, person-centred support.
• Follow the organisation’s policies, values, and safeguarding expectations.

Qualifications and experience

Applicants should ideally have prior experience in a support worker, disability, community, or residential care setting. A relevant qualification in health, disability, social services, or a related area is required, with Health and Wellbeing Level 4 or higher specifically noted as essential.

Additional requirements

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a calm, respectful manner.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, privacy, dignity, and professional boundaries.
• Ability to use basic systems such as electronic records, incident reporting tools, and email.
• Understanding of person-centred and strengths-based support approaches.
• Reliability, sound time management, and the ability to work independently and in a team.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• Current first aid certification.
• Clear background checks, in line with safeguarding and regulatory expectations.

Work environment

This role requires flexibility across shifts and a consistent commitment to respectful, resident-focused care. The setting is collaborative, with close teamwork and regular communication supporting quality service delivery.