Support workers are key deliverers of care in the UK, often hugely
valued by those people they provide care for. Their roles and
responsibilities are increasing in the midst of ever-changing health and
social care systems. A Handbook for Support Workers in Health and
Social Care recognises the contribution of support workers and provides
an introduction to the core knowledge, legislation and models of
practice required to work across health and social care settings.
Covering core person-centred skills that a support worker needs to
develop, this textbook looks at knowing and managing yourself, before
moving on to understanding your role in the organisation and teamwork.
It outlines the relevant legislation and policies, from the Care Act
(2014) to confidentiality. Communication, both written and in person, is
a central theme, and key values such as compassion and dignity are
explored in relation to this. There is a thought-provoking discussion of
working with people, covering topics including respecting choices,
thinking about risk and safeguarding. The book ends by looking at what
it means to be a competent practitioner and the importance of continual
professional development.
The first textbook introducing the core theory and practice knowledge
necessary to work as a support worker in health and social care, it
includes case studies, tasks and exercises to help the reader apply
their learning.
The authors share more than 20 years of experience in the design and
delivery of support worker courses in higher education. They deliver
continuing professional development, bespoke training and consultation
to the health and social care workforce.
