Tailor your first shift induction to individual needs using this guide.
The support plan
Review the support plan immediately. Use this time to clarify essential details, including allergy information, medication requirements, and emergency procedures.
Expectations
Clarify expectations with your client before starting work. Ensure you agree on:
- Client goals and collaborative strategies.
- Additional tasks (e.g., housework, charging equipment).
- Recording requirements (e.g., behaviour changes, medication, incidents).
- Presence of others in the home.
- Feedback methods.
- Upcoming commitments or holidays.
Accountability
Understand your reporting lines. You are accountable to your client or their account manager; notify them immediately regarding lateness, schedule changes, or cancellations.
Using equipment and vehicles
Ensure your client, their account manager, or someone close to the client demonstrates how to operate any equipment (e.g., vehicles, hoists) before you use it. Never feel obligated to use equipment you are not comfortable or capable of operating.
Potential hazards
Identify potential hazards and locate PPE and first aid equipment early. Maintaining a safe environment is a shared responsibility. Note: Support must not occur in the worker's home.
Facility orientation
Locate essential items, such as medication, house keys, a first aid kit, emergency numbers, etc., before starting your shift to ensure you're prepared for emergencies.
Effective communication
Establish communication preferences with your client or account manager early. Determine what information to share and how often (e.g., updates during out-and-about support). Hireup platform, mobile, or text communication is available.
The Hireup community thrives on personalised, on-shift inductions tailored to diverse needs.