What does a rehabilitation support worker do?

What does a rehabilitation support worker do?

Rehabilitation support workers play a vital role in the lives of people recovering from brain injuries. A support worker’s dedication and compassionate approach can make an enormous difference to those they work with.

Let’s delve deeper into the responsibilities, challenges and rewarding aspects of the role – through the eyes of a Brainkind Rehabilitation Support Worker.

We spoke to Christine, based at Jane Percy House in Northumberland to find out more:

Why are communication skills important?

Listening isn’t just about hearing words; it’s about having the ability to understand the experiences of people we work with. Each person that we support has a unique journey, and lending an ear helps us tailor support to their needs and act on their concerns.

Empathy matters

Empathy and compassion help us as support workers to connect with people we support, by acknowledging their challenges. As support staff, we can also feed off each other and encourage a supportive environment among ourselves and the people we support.

Positivity and patience are vital

Positivity isn’t just about being bright and optimistic; it’s about instilling hope and resilience. It’s a motivator for the people we support during difficult times. I know from experience that having patience – the steady commitment to support, even when progress might seem slow – is crucial. Sometimes, talking to someone, seeing how someone is doing, and hearing about their progress – no matter how small – works wonders.

A glimpse into the daily routine

I arrive at work early, and once I’ve made sure everyone has had breakfast and is ready, I start off by finding out what the person I support wants to do for the rest of the day.

A typical day involves:

• Support for personal, social, and domestic skills
• Leisure time
• Behavioural management
• Getting out and about into the community
• Support with education and daily living skills

Beyond the physical health aspect, creating an atmosphere of understanding, encouragement, and progress tracking is always on my mind.

Time to reflect

It’s important to reflect on your support and its impact. I want to be the best support worker I can be. All of my actions contribute to the progress of the people here who are undergoing rehabilitation.

I love to see and hear the feedback from people we support. Getting a thank you from someone I’m supporting motivates me and gives an insight into what’s working.

How can I support people to achieve their goals?

Working as a rehabilitation support worker at Brainkind is fulfilling and impactful – but understanding, empathy, positivity and patience are such important qualities to develop in this role. Balancing your skills (and the training you receive) with a compassionate approach supports people to complete their rehabilitation journey, reclaim their independence and live fulfilling lives after a brain injury.