Paul Foster
As a provider of non-judgmental social care services for older people in the community, I'm an advocate for independent living and ageing in a positive way. I'm observant, assertive and tactful, with the ability to calmly react quickly in emergencies. I am SSSC (Scottish Social Services Council) registered and a Member of the PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) scheme.
Skills
- Excellent listening and spoken communication skills
- Well-developed written communication skills for report writing
- Honest, reliable, committed and flexible to meet client needs
- Friendly, helpful, patient and tolerant
- Interest in and empathy with older people
- Respectful of confidentiality
- Strong leadership qualities, problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Willingness to keep up to date with legislation and standards
Achievements
Befriender of the Month for Golden Bond
Work experience
Social Care Assistant at Silver Home Care, Bearsden
Helping people with personal care and assisting with physical tasks. Giving emotional support, listening to concerns and discussing worries. Assisting with household tasks such as shopping, laundry, cooking and cleaning. Dealing with financial tasks, such as paying bills and claiming benefits. Reporting any changes in health or behaviour among the people I care for. Drawing up and reviewing care plans for my clients.
Befriender at Golden Bond, Livingston
Volunteering as a Befriender once per week, working with an older person in my area to help reduce loneliness and isolation. Acting as a companion, often sharing a chat or going for a walk, to build confidence and link the person to social activities. Referring and making them aware of other organisations which can support their health and wellbeing. Completing monthly visit sheets and giving feedback to the project co-ordinator.
Quality Control Technician at McSwine's Factory, Livingston
Setting up and managing quality control systems. Leading quality projects, including data reviews and audits. Dealing with customer complaints and passing the information on to suppliers. Collecting data and writing reports on findings to be passed on to managers. Checking that production methods meet relevant legislation. Keeping accurate results of checks and tests carried out.
Education and training
HNC Social Services at City of Glasgow College
Social care practice; psychology; sociology; health, wellbeing and safeguarding; understanding and supporting behaviour; mental health in a care setting; grief and loss.
In house training at Golden Bond, Livingston
Active listening; barriers to social isolation; boundaries, confidentiality and safeguarding.
REHIS Introduction to Food Hygiene Certificate
Additional information
Travel to work: Car owner/driver who can reliably commute within the Central Belt.
Spare time activities: I am a swimming coach for West Amateur Swim Club, having earned the UKCC Level 1 Coaching qualification. I prepare and deliver training sessions which support swimmers to reach their full potential both in and out of the pool.