Support Practitioner – New Service Launch
Full time & Part time posts available
We’re Recruiting! Join Us as We Expand Our Supported Living Services in Buckie
Earn up to £27,960.08 per year pro rata
A pay approach that recognises your value – from day one and beyond.
At Ark, all Support Practitioners are paid at least the Real Living Wage, currently £13.45 per hour (£27,350.04 pro rata).
After successfully completing your probation period, your hourly rate increases to £13.75 (£27,960.08 pro rata).
We recognise the responsibility of this role, and have chosen to build in a clear and guaranteed pay progression – reflecting the commitment, skill and consistency it takes to do this job well.
It’s one of the ways we aim to support a more sustainable and valued social care workforce.
An exciting new opportunity has arisen as we prepare to welcome three young individuals into a new shared supported living home. Each person is currently living with their family and is ready to take the next step towards independent living — and we’re building a dedicated team to help make that journey empowering, safe, and fulfilling.
We’re looking for compassionate, proactive, and reliable Support Practitioners who are passionate about helping young adults build confidence, develop life skills, and thrive in their own home.
Ark already support 15 individuals in Buckie who you will also provide support to as part of the existing team.
Our supported people enjoy a wide variety of activities such as going out for lunch, bowling, trampolining, swimming, darts, football, snooker, spending time with their families and going on holidays. An increasing number of our supported people have mobility cars which widens opportunity for activities in the community. We always try to make goals happen for people this could be exploring courses to support people with employability or trying a new activity. Our supported people love to be part of the community and have been organising regular events such as discos and BBQs where they can invite their friends and family and everyone can get together.
We’re looking for people who can bring energy, creativity and fun into each day — whether that’s helping someone try a new hobby, planning an outing, or supporting someone to build independence in a way that feels enjoyable and meaningful.
Please note that this role includes Sleepover* shifts, 7am shift starts and 10pm shift finish times.
As this service supports people with complex needs all our Support Practitioner roles do involve personal care and giving medication in line with the Support Plan.
Some individuals may also present with PICA, use Makaton, or rely on visual communication tools. Full training in PICA awareness, Makaton, positive behaviour support and all specialist communication approaches will be provided.
*A sleepover shift consists of working during the day, a rest period sleeping over in the service between 11pm – 7am and then working again the next day. Sleepover shift are typically 7am – 7am or 3pm – 3pm. The sleepover period is over and above your contracted hours and gets paid as an additional payment of £107.60 per sleepover.
If you are enthusiastic about supporting people to live their best lives then apply now to join our team!
Your main duties will include but not be limited to:
Working with colleagues as part of an effective and efficient team to support vulnerable people.
Communicate and work well with our supported people to provide individual care and maintain appropriate relationships.
Being responsible in supporting individuals throughout the activities, giving positive feedback and encouragement.
Why Ark?
In return for your valuable contribution, Ark will also offer you:
Up to 36 days paid holiday per year pro rata
4% Contributory pension scheme
Cycle to Work Scheme
Fully funded PVG & 1st year SSSC registration paid by Ark
Our employees told us in a recent survey that they stay with Ark because they believe in our values, we have supportive managers who continually appreciate their staff and they love making a positive difference in our supported peoples lives, helping them to achieve their dreams.
Ark would love to hear from you whether you are an experienced Support Worker or new to Social Care.
Please ensure your CV/profile contains your full employment history, qualifications and any relevant experience, as this information will be considered alongside your responses to the application questions.
Should you choose to use AI tools to support your application, we ask that you do this thoughtfully. We encourage you to ensure your application reflects your own voice, experience, and motivations. We value authenticity and want to understand your individual strengths and perspectives.
Scottish Charity No. SCO15694
Previous experience of the following is an advantage but not essential as Ark will provide full training: Care Worker, Social worker, Home Carer, Case Worker, Care Assistant, Autism Support Worker, Personal Care Assistant , Social Care Worker.
