An exciting and rare opportunity has arisen to work within Alzheimer Scotland as a Dementia Link Worker in the East Ayrshire area. The role of Dementia Link Worker is key to our local services and Link Workers are often the 1st person families have contact with following a diagnosis of dementia.
The Dementia Link Worker role is central to our success, in providing people living with dementia, their families and carers high quality post-diagnostic support. This support can involve practical advice, as well as access to resources, activities, groups and other community programmes that will sustain, as far as is possible, peoples’ independence. Dementia Link Workers are allocated to support individuals and families for up to a year following a diagnosis of dementia. During the year of post-diagnostic support, Dementia Link Workers operate around Alzheimer Scotland’s 5 Pillar Model, allowing a structured but person-centred approach to the delivery of support.
Working with individuals and families affected by dementia, the Dementia Link Worker is required to have a warm, flexible approach, a good understanding of dementia, as well as skills in empathy and relationship building. Often visiting people in their own homes, Dementia Link Workers are in a unique position to offer a very person-centred level of care.
Supporting our East Ayrshire locality, this post will be based within the Community Mental Health team, Cumnock although following current restrictions, it will be primarily home-based working initially. Being part of a multidisciplinary team, Dementia Link Workers are required to be effective team workers and have the skills to maintain relationships with colleagues both within Alzheimer Scotland and the NHS. Travel within the East Ayrshire area will be an essential part of this role, in the main to support people in their own homes. Skills in using digital platforms would be advantageous as we use a blended approach to support people which involves some virtual meetings with people with dementia and their families, as well as online groups.
A unique person is sought who can support people living with dementia, primarily in a home setting, personalised to the individual’s needs. They will take a flexible, creative and caring approach to the role.
Applicants will have an understanding of the aims and values of Alzheimer Scotland supported by excellent communication and networking skills; hold a recognised professional qualification and/or have relevant experience with a willingness to learn and participate in training. Relevant qualifications and/or experience of working with people with dementia would be an advantage.
You will required to have a full driving licence and access to a car.
For a full job description, please click apply where you will be redirected to our website to fill out an application form.
Applicants must complete the form on our website to be considered for this role.
Successful candidate for this post will be subject to a criminal check through Disclosure Scotland.
Closing date: Monday 6 September 2021
Interview date – TBC
Recruiting Manager; Lesley Millar, Tel: 07500 498574, Email: LMillar@Alzscot.org