Anyone have experience working in a group home?

[Kate545]

I have an interview tomorrow as a residential counsellor or group home worker. I will be working with people who have intellectual disabilities and I'm just wondering if anyone else has worked in this type of envirnoment before.

What types of questions would be asked? What should I expect? Any advice?

Thanks =)

[Anonymous]

I'm a mental health nurse and have worked in learning disabilities services. I'm based in the UK, so I'm not sure how well this might translate if you live elsewhere, but I can give you some pointers. Capacity and consent to treatment are big issues in this line of work so you'd do well to familiarise yourself with the law relating to this in your country (for example, in the UK the mental capacity act). Interpersonal skills, communication and your ability to form therapeutic relationships are likely to come up - if you've not worked in health care before, have you had any experience of caring for vulnerable children or adults? For example, many people have provided care for an elderly relative. If you read around these topics in a health care context, you will probably be able to think of examples of where you have developed these transferable skills in your personal or work life. Being able to communicate respectfully and appropriately and pitch yourself at the right 'level' are key skills for working with this client group. Another thing the interview panel might be looking for is an awareness of ethical issues in health and social care. Awareness of professional and personal boundaries, safeguarding and advocacy. It will be helpful to state an interest/willingness to participate in all aspects of personal care, whilst displaying an awareness of the importance of empowering people to be as independent as they reasonably can. I hope this helps, and isn't too late! Best of luck.

[6Paul11]

I have worked in the public safety sector (ems). I would say that it is a lot of work for very little money or appreciation. It takes a certain person to do it.

If you don't care about fame, money, stories with no happy endings, or getting your hands dirty, then the job may be for you. You will need to learn to take satisfaction in doing your best even if it means the result isn't what you wanted.

Think about it and then think about it again. Good luck :)

[Dantemustdie]

I've never worked in such a place buy my mother did for years and she said it was a very rewarding job. I guess the advice I'd give is be confident and be honest too. show them that you're up for it and that you'd be an addition. Good luck