Open Call for Support Worker (Full-Time)

Requirements– A qualification in the Social Sciences or Health Sciences, such as psychology, community work, social policy, mental health nursing, health and social care management.  

Students in their final year of studies are also encouraged to apply.

Job Description

Designation: Residential Support Worker

Reporting to: Head Office & Logistics Coordinator 

The Overall objectives of the position are as follows:

The Support Worker will support the execution of the day to day activities of the residents as set out in the Person Centred Plan (PCP). The Support Worker will follow the direction of the Head Office and Logistics Coordinator and/or Home Coordinator in providing the necessary support and care that ensures that residents achieve their optimum potential in enhancing their quality of life.

The Support Worker is part of the team that will assist in teaching, advocating and providing care and respect to all clients. The Support Worker’s responsibility and accountability for the residents’ well being must constantly remain within the Foundation’s policies and procedures.

Specific Tasks

  • Provide meaningful and effective input to the creation, review and update of the Person Centred Plan, as part of the resident’s support team;
  • Assist in developing the strategies for the implementation and maintenance of the planned programmes, interventions and approaches;
  • Document and report information as assigned by the head office and logistics coordinator /home coordinator/social worker; as well as keeping self updated by reading the documentation about residents on a daily basis;
  • Updating the Appointments Diary and Google Calendar accordingly 
  • To inform the Head Office and Logistics Coordinator with any cancelled or postponed appointments and course of action that needs to be taken (whether a new appointment will be sent by post or scheduled from our end)
  • Updating of the Client Management System (CORTEX) with all the information derived from the appointments and/or interventions and inform Home Co-Ordinator with any changes that need to be affected immediately 
  • Assist the Hone coordinator/social worker in carrying out the programmes and plans as set out;
  • To take the necessary action and carry out interventions with clients when needed 
  • Contribute ideas, suggestions and observations regarding the effectiveness of the programmes as planned and implemented;
  • To take initiative and be pro-active 
  • Maintain current knowledge of all aspects of resident’s file;
  • Update client’s file as directed by the residential co-ordinator or designate;
  • To assist in the completion of ADL forms every three months (where applicable)
  • Keeping client’s pockets (Schedule V and Appointments) up to date and organised by making sure prescriptions and medical documents (DDA Card, Schedule V and Karta Roza) are renewed and past appointments filed appropriately
  • To assist in the appropriate filing of documentation 
  • To keep up to date with e-mails; and keep the Home Co-Ordinator and Head Office and Logistics Co-Ordinator informed if issue being handled requires their attention 
  • Follow training and development programmes, recommended by the Head Office and Logistics Co-Ordinator or designate, to support the residents more effectively;
  • Assist the residents and staff in maintaining a clean and tidy accommodation;
  • Assist the residents in food preparation;
  • Assist the residents in maintaining personal hygiene regardless of resident gender, as well as, in their personal appearance;
  • Assist the residents in keeping their personal belongings and finances in order;
  • Ensure that every effort is made to maintain the residents’ dignity and self respect;
  • Follow resident’s daily work/activity schedules. The support ratio can vary according to the need. The support ratio is determined by the management depending on the needs of the individual resident and is limited to one to one at the most;
  • Be economical in usage of the foundation’s budget and operate household goods with responsibility;
  • Take direction from Home Coordinator and bring concerns to his/her attention.
  • To be actively involved and participate in an On-Call system. 

Residents Training and Development

To Assist the Co-ordinator/social worker in providing the necessary training, support, and motivation essentials for residents to realise their full potential in the various aspects of life , be it social, communication, educational or vocational skills.

  • Assist the home coordinator/Social worker in developing, planning, documenting and monitoring the development activities;
  • Attend and participate in all Team Meetings;
  • Take appropriate action (as defined by Foundations policies and procedures) in cases of emergencies, urgent matters or abuse);
  • Identify and document support deficiencies, problems, concerns, and bring them to the Team Meetings or to the attention of the Head Office and Logistics Co-Ordinator or designate;
  • Utilise approved teaching techniques, in enhancing residents’ daily lives;
  • Encouraging community integration in consultation with the Home co-ordinator/social worker;
  • Teach, assist and participate with the residents in daily domestic activities and chores.
  • To observe and assess the clients in order to inform Home Coordinator/Head Office and Logistics Co-Ordinator of any appointments that need to be scheduled 
  • To observe and assess the residents in order to give feedback that will help create a better care plan for each client
  • To assist in the prompting and motivation for residents to carry out ADLs where applicable.

Medication

  • Dispense and administer medication according to the policies and procedures of the foundation:
  • Ensure that all medication is logged in the appropriate files 
  • Ensure that all medication is properly and securely stored;
  • Keep up to date with POYC dates (when to drop off Schedule V pocket at pharmacy, and when to pick medications up)
  • Ensure that a copy of the latest treatment chart/prescription is kept in the designated file 
  • Advise the residential Co-Ordinator or designate of any medical condition of the resident.

Personal Development

  • Participate in all development and training programmes as recommended by the Head Office & Logistics Coordinator or the Management.
  • Identify opportunities for personal professional development and bring to the attention of the home coordinator.
  • To ask the Head Office and Logistics Co-Ordinator for any assistance needed and to schedule earlier supervision if needed 
  • The support worker should also strive to have good role performance and good communication with other staff members and the residents.

Other Responsibilities.

The Support Worker may from time to time be called upon by the Management or designate to perform certain non-recurring tasks which, although not specifically spelled out within the text of the job description, are nonetheless akin to the primary goals and objectives of the job description of the residential Support Worker and are intended to enhance the end results and/or to overcome unexpected obstacles.

The Head Office and Logistics Co-Ordinator will be available to assist the support worker in any need that may arise and, in any situation. 

Interested applicants are to send a covering letter and an updated CV.

Applicants are also asked to submit a police-conduct certificate and 2 reference letters.





    Open Call for Home Coordinator

    Requirements – 

    A degree in a Social Science or Health Science subject.  This may include psychology, social work, social policy, community work, health and social care management, mental health nursing and so on.

    Relevant experience will be considered an asset.

    Fluency in both Maltese and English (written and spoken).

    Job Description – 

    Designation:         Home Coordinator (full-time basis)

    Reporting to: General Manager 

    The Home Coordinator is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a residential care home. This role involves ensuring the delivery of high-quality care and support to residents, compliance with regulatory standards, management of staff, and the effective administration of the home’s resources.

    Roles and Responsibilities

    Leadership and Management

    • Lead and manage a team of care staff on a day-to-day basis, providing guidance, training and support through regular supervision and staff meetings.
    • Implement the Foundation’s Policies and Procedures in line with regulatory requirements and best practices. 
    • Be actively involved in Management Meetings and Operations Meetings.

    Resident Care

    • Ensure the delivery of person-centred care that meets the individual needs of each resident. 
    • Oversee the creation and implementation of care plans.
    • Review and update care plans as needed. 
    • Lead the caseload meetings and delegate work accordingly. 
    • Monitor and evaluate the quality of care provided, addressing any issues promptly and effectively.

    Compliance and Quality Assurance

    • Ensure compliance with all internal policies. 
    • Prepare for and manage inspections from regulatory bodies. 
    • Implement and monitor quality assurance processes, ensuring continuous improvement. 

    Financial Management 

    • Manage the home’s budget, ensuring financial stability. 
    • Liaise with the HR & Finance Coordinator as well as the Head Office and Logistics Coordinator for any extraordinary purchasing. 
    • Maintain accurate financial records. 

    Communication and Liaison

    • Act as the main point of contact for residents, families and external stakeholders. 
    • Maintain open and effective communication with all parties involved in the care of residents. 
    • Foster a positive and collaborative working environment. 

    Health and Safety 

    • Ensure the home is a safe environment for residents, staff and visitors. 
    • Implement appropriate measures as directed by the Health and Safety Officer. 
    • Respond to emergencies and incidents in a timely and effective manner. 

    Administrative Duties

    • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for all residents and staff. 
    • Ensure all documentation is completed in accordance with legal and organisational requirement. 
    • Oversee the scheduling and rostering of staff to ensure adequate coverage.

    Training and Development

    • To participate in all development and training programmes as recommended by the Management. 
    • Identify opportunities for personal professional development and bring to the attention of the Management.
    • To identify gaps in training of staff and liaise with the Management for scheduling and implementation of training.

    On-Call Responsibilities

    • To be actively involved and participate in an on-call system. 

    Other Responsibilities

    The Home Coordinator may from time to time be called upon by the Management or designate to perform other non-recurring tasks which, although not specifically spelled out within the text of the job description, are nonetheless akin to the primary goals and objectives of the job description of the Home Coordinator and are intended to enhance the end results and/or to overcome unexpected obstacles.

    Applicants are requested to attach a covering letter and a CV.

    A police conduct certificate and two reference letters will also be required.





      Celebrating our 25th Anniversary – 28th October 2024 – Press Release

      Celebrating 25 years of hope.

      Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem marks a quarter century of providing residential support to the homeless.

      Today, Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem, which was founded by the Capuchins in 1999, proudly celebrates its 25th year of providing residential services to individuals experiencing homelessness, as guided by the Capuchins’ core values of compassion, dignity and service to the marginalised.

      Inspired by the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi and the Capuchin commitment to serving those most in need, Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem was established to oIer more than just shelter. The organisation’s mission is to restore dignity and hope to the homeless and this is done not only by oIering safe accommodation but by also facilitating individualised pathways that allow individuals to rebuild their lives.

      For the past 25 years we have striven to not only provide a roof over people’s heads but to empower individuals to rediscover their worth and reclaim their place in society. Along these years Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem has supported over 2,000 individuals and during last year it received 281 referrals.

      We know that homelessness is not just a housing issue, but a complex challenge that requires holistic long-term solutions. How do we accomplish this? We do it one step at a time, through a very dedicated team of professionals who provide individualised and comprehensive care covering medical, health and mental-health, emotional and social needs.

      Homelessness is not about people sleeping in carton boxes outside. It is a complex and challenging situation which stems from diIerent causes including financial issues, family disruptions, illness, mental health challenges. A person’s mental health may be directly impacted due to homelessness, or it may be the prime reason why the person may not be able to live independently.

      Mark* had a long history of substance abuse, which led to impulsive, risk- taking behaviours and a prolonged stay at the national hospital for mental health recovery. His parents were deeply worried about him, but after significant improvement, his medical team decided he was ready to regain independence and reintegrate into the community.

      At Dar Victoria, we welcomed Mark and worked with him to create a personalized care plan. His family provided strong support throughout, and we helped strengthen these ties, which played a key role in his progress.

      Today, Mark functions well in society, independently managing tasks such as laundry, maintaining his living space, and attending appointments. His family is overjoyed with the remarkable transformation in his mental health and overall well-being.

      Mark’s next goal is to fulfil his dream of volunteering at an animal shelter, where he hopes to give back by helping animals in need.

      *Mary in her thirties and her 5-year-old son came to us after becoming homeless. The mother had endured significant mental health issues and past domestic violence, which took a toll on both her and her child. Finding a job was incredibly diIicult for her, as was managing her time, taking care of her son, attending appointments, even getting out of bed each day. We provided extensive support, helping her with mental health care, navigating the challenges of employment, prioritizing her responsibilities, and developing her parenting skills, with the help of other professionals.

      We also addressed her son’s mental health needs, ensuring he received the support necessary to manage his learning disability. With our collective eIorts, she was able to settle down in a job, save money, and eventually rent with her friend.

      Her journey highlights the resilience required to overcome adversity and the transformative impact of a supportive community.

      To run 5 residential facilities in 2023 only, the Foundation required close to 1.25 million Euros, and this would not have been possible without the financial support from the Ministry for Social Policy, Ministry for Health and other donors.

      “We hope to continue consolidating and improving on the services we have by constantly evaluating what we do and seek to continuously improve on what we have. We also hope to provide a voice to the marginalised people that we serve by being at the forefront to advocate on their behalf. We also hope to strengthen our relationships with our stakeholders including the Ministry for Social Policy and the Ministry for Health, business organisations and others to be able to provide further comprehensive care and support to more individuals and be able to remain responsive and adapt to changing societal needs”, says Sarah Bondin, General Manager of the Foundation.

      “Celebrating 25 years of Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem is a profound moment for all of us. Over the past two and a half decades, we have offered countless vulnerable individuals a sense of belonging, dignity, and the opportunity for a new beginning. Our mission remains steadfast — to ensure that no one, in our country, is left without a home or hope.

      The smiles and progress of each of our residents inspire me with hope and constantly renew my faith in humanity, giving me the strength to continue the outstanding work that Suret il-Bniedem has accomplished so far and to

      continue working towards a future where everyone has a safe place to call home”, says Dr Marique Sciberras Chairperson of the Foundation.

      Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem is a registered voluntary organisation of the Province of the Capuchins, Malta which was founded in 1999 to provide services to homeless individuals. It currently runs Dar Leopoldo and Dar Teresa Spinelli a residential service for homeless men and women with children respectively. It also runs Dar Victoria, Dar Frangisk and Dar Imelda and Paul Debono. Dar Victoria and Dar Imelda and Paul Debono are community-based facilities with staJ round the clock that assist men and women, who due to mental health challenges end up homeless. Dar Frangisk is a semi-independent home for males with mental health challenges.

      October 2024 – A Beautiful Journey to Assisi & Rome!

      A group of five residents together with two members of our staff Leona and Neyra; and our Vice Chairperson Fr. Elmar Pace were off on an unforgettable yearly trip! This year, the group explored the breathtaking beauty of Assisi and the historical wonders of Rome. From the peaceful landscapes of St. Francis’ hometown to the magnificent sights of the Vatican and ancient Roman ruins, every moment was filled with joy, learning, and connection.

      Grateful for the memories, the laughter, and the friendships built along the way. This is an experience of learning, growth and connectedness with oneself and one another.

      Care Worker (Part-time basis)

      Designation: Care Worker (Part-time basis)

      Reporting to: Home Coordinator

       Eligibility Requirements: 

      Applicants must be in a possession of a recognised qualification in the Health and Social Care field or a certificate in Residential Care.  

      Job Description

       Overall Objectives:

      The care workers main objective is to provide individual care and support to residents, with the aim of helping them regain independence and function as productive members in society;

      Objectives:

      • To facilitate the residents’ participation in activities that take place within and out of the residential setting, thus enabling them to integrate better in their settings.
      • To help the resident form fruitful and positive relationships with peers and other adults;
      • To foster independence and encourage the residents to learn how to look after themselves, or help them to
      •  attain the best level of self- sufficiency they can achieve;
      • To offer needs-led services;
      • To support the residents to integrate and function positively as part of their “family group” and to assist them in developing skills which are appropriate and acceptable within family;
      • To work hand in hand with the Head of Home and care –providers and liaise with various professionals, including the field and residential social worker so as to provide a holistic and integrated service to the resident;

      Duties and Responsibilities: (In relation to the residents)

      Care Workers will:

      • Provide positive assistance and support to all residents.
      • Give feedback as regards progress and to suggest any further ways of intervention that can improve the residents situation.
      • Follow indicated interventions by the coordinator, the social worker or support worker.
      • Ensure assigned duties to the residents are fulfilled by non-directive approaches but more by reminding, assisting, and good example.
      • Report any concerns regarding the residents immediately to the appropriate professional and to communicate effectively, always in the best interests of the residents;
      • Keep accurate and updated records of all activities and interventions, so as to ensure continuity of care and accountability.
      • Work in a team with supportive context where the staff can explore, discuss day to day aspects of their work encouraging and providing information to each other.
      • Respect the privacy of residents and use in the responsible manner any information gained in professional relationships;
      • Use assertiveness when dealing with residents but never be aggressive or submissive. Confrontation should never ever take place.
      • Involve oneself in daily routine of the residents within the residential setting such as personal hygiene, good nutrition, and taking care of personal belongings;
      • To support the residents in developing formal and informal training in daily living skills, personal skills, practical life skills, problem solving skills and interpersonal skills in his/her daily interactions with significant others;

      Duties and Responsibilities: (In relation to the professionals involved):

      The care worker will:

      • Keep update records and reporting after every shift to ensure continuity of care and accountability.
      • Attend in-service training and supervision to help meet the identified needs and expectations of working this client group.
      • Attends meetings in respect of the residents when and if necessary.
      • Communicate effectively and always in the best interest of the residents with other care workers, Home Coordinator,  social worker, support worker and any other person or professional involved with the service user.
      • Report any concerns regarding the resident promptly to the appropriate source often the Home Coordinator
      • Work with the residents and other members of staff in a mature, professional, and co-operative manner.
      • Work effectively and with respect and support in a team.
      • Draw the attention to the Home Coordinator if and when practises of care work and or other events run against the policy and procedures of the home.

      Duties and Responsibilities (in relation to the Residential Home):

      Care workers must follow these guidelines when undertaking duties and responsibilities in the Home. In doing so, the care worker is to:

      • Familiarise themselves with the operations of the particular residential setting they are working in.
      • Follow the Home Coordinator’s daily routine with regard to the residents at the Home
      • Abide by the policies and procedures of the foundation;
      • Adhere to the Code of Ethics and Confidentiality policy;

      This job description may change from time to time depending on the exigencies of the service.

      Interested applicants are to send a covering letter and an updated CV

      Applicants are also asked to submit a police-conduct certificate and 2 reference letters.