The kind of work
you could do
You could support people with intellectual disabilities in a variety of settings including:
• their homes• their workplaces
• their family home
• community locations such as recreation
facilities, libraries, social events, etc.
Disability Support Workers:
Disability Support Workers may also be called Direct Service Workers. They work as part of a support team to:
• provide day-to-day direct support to individuals• provide opportunities for the individual to learn new skills in a variety of areas
• assist the individual to achieve their personal goals
• assist the individual to contribute to and participate in the community
• assist the individual to develop relationships with others
Management and Leadership Roles:
Management and other leadership positions are available for qualified disability support workers. A frontline supervisor is responsible for:
- ensuring services for individuals are person centred
- ensuring day-to-day services run smoothly
- supervision of staff, including coaching and mentoring
- handling administration and financial requirements
- developing networks with the community
Specialist Roles:
Some agencies also need disability support workers for special roles. For example, employment consultants or case managers are responsible for:
- finding and supervising community based work opportunities for assigned individuals
- career exploration with the individual, investigating and locating potential employment
- securing paid employment opportunities
- providing employment training and follow up
Senior managers:
Senior managers such as program co-ordinators, play a significant role in program and service areas. They usually work in large organizations, reporting to executive directors or chief executive officers. Program co-ordinators:
- supervise daily operations
- lead and direct staff
- develop and manage support services
- develop and monitor budgets
- do administrative work
Executive Directors:
Executive directors provide overall leadership and management to the agency. They are responsible for:
- ensuring the mission and vision of the agency is fulfilled
- ensuring the agency provides quality support services
- monitoring financial accountability
- administering policies and procedures
- carrying out the agency’s Strategic Plan
