We believe that the most important resouce of any successful enterprise is the staff team and this is even more important within the caring sector.

At Newland Hurst we endeavour to provide good working conditions and a positive environment in our efforts to retain a happy, stable and contented staff team.

Recruitment and selection of staff is carefully focused upon skills and personal qualities and an ability to relate to people with learning disabilities.  There are many requirements which when added together, make a 'good member of staff'.

The following list of qualities is certainly not exhaustive but illustrates the demands of care work and highlights some of the essential attributes required of support staff at Newland Hurst.

• Integrity
• Reliability and punctuality
• Flexibility
• Patience and tolerance
• Being a good listener
• Acceptance
• Sense of humour
• Cheerful disposition and positive outlook
• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn

All residents have a named key worker to ensure that the individual has a personal supporter and advocate to represent his or her needs and wishes.

The key worker's responsibilites include .... the personal care and welfare of the resident; making healthcare appointments as required (doctor, dentist, optician etc.) and liaising with relatives, college and any significant others.

The key worker assists the resident with any purchases, such as clothes and toiletries.  He or she also takes the lead role when reviews and individual programme planning are being undertaken.

Further to the above, a co-key worker is appointed to each resident.   This staff member provides support and assistance to the main key worker and also provides automatic 'back-up' during annual leave or any other absence.