Life Skills Practitioner

Life Skills Practitioner (Support Worker) – Adult Services

About the Role
VSA's Rowanlea House, based at Linn Moor Campus near Peterculter, supports young adults with autism, complex learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges to develop independence, life skills, and community involvement. The role focuses on providing person-centred support that enables tenants to build confidence, maintain their tenancy, and achieve meaningful personal outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Support tenants with daily living, independent living skills, and personal care.
• Promote wellbeing, safety, dignity, choice, and inclusion.
• Administer medication and follow safeguarding and health & safety procedures.
• Use tailored communication approaches to support individual needs.
• Implement positive behaviour support strategies and risk management plans.
• Encourage participation in community activities and skill-building programmes.
• Maintain accurate records and comply with care standards and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to a safe, clean, and supportive living environment.

Training & Development:

Comprehensive training and ongoing support are provided, making this an excellent opportunity for both experienced support workers and those looking to further develop their career in social care. Training includes:

• Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and Behavioural Support Strategies (BSS).
• Communication and learning approaches such as TEACCH and PECS.
• Medication administration, safeguarding, and adult protection.
• Moving & handling, health & safety, and mandatory care training.
• Support to achieve and maintain required SSSC registration and qualifications.
• Continuous professional development, refresher training, and opportunities for career progression within VSA.

Essential Requirements

• Experience supporting individuals with autism, complex needs, or challenging behaviours.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and use basic IT systems.
• Positive, flexible, and person-centred approach.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to provide personal care when required.

Working Pattern

• 39 hours per week.
• 4-week rolling rota.
• Early shifts (7:30am-3:30pm), late shifts (2:00pm-10:15pm), and alternate weekends.

Salary & Benefits

• £13.45-£14.40 per hour (£27,276-£29,203 per annum).
• Generous holiday allowance and sick pay scheme.
• NEST pension and refer-a-friend scheme.
• Extensive training and career development opportunities.
• Staff transport provided between Aberdeen city centre and Linn Moor Campus.

Pay: £27,276.60-£29,203.20 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Employee discount
• Free flu jabs
• On-site parking
• Referral programme
• Shuttle service provided
• Sick pay

Work Location: In person