We accept applications for this role throughout the year.
Our aim is to provide the best possible holidays for our clients and our holiday supporters play a key role in achieving this. Supporters enable people of all ages and abilities to travel and experience a wide range of destinations, events and activities; we have many regular clients and welcome more and more new people every year.
Supporters provide group and personal support as needed and we usually send two supporters on each of our holidays; more are sent if client needs require it. Supporters take part in most activities and enable client participation throughout the holiday.
We would love to hear from you if you have experience of working with adults with learning disabilities. We will also consider applications from people with relevant life experience, including lots of travel.
It’s important that you enjoy working as part of a team as well as being able to think on your feet and respond positively to new situations. Also important are a proactive, can-do attitude, good communication skills, patience and a sense of humour. We love to hear from people who can drive a minibus.
You will need to be cleared through the DBS system and undertake training as required.
Please note that this is a part-time, self-employed role with a seasonal element; although holidays run throughout the year, we are busiest in the summer months. We are always keen to hear from people who are happy to work over the Christmas period.
Please contact us at office@optionsholidays.co.uk if you need more information.
FAQ
Do I need to be physically fit?
This is an active role which involves lots of walking, some lifting, carrying bags, joining in activities and occasionally pushing wheelchairs.
Do I need to complete my own DBS check?
If you don’t have current DBS clearance, we will make the application for you, and we will pay for this. We can also access the update service if you have registered for it.
Do I need a passport?
Yes, this is essential if you wish to travel overseas.
Do I need to have travelled a lot?
While this is an advantage, it is not essential.
Do I need to be able to use technology?
Yes, you will need to use our client support app on a mobile phone (includes recording support activity) as well as use email and take photographs of clients for their photo albums. You will also need to be able to complete online training courses.
Will clients have medical needs?
We do not provide nursing care. Supporters manage medication administration for many of our clients which can occasionally include insulin injections and dealing with seizures. You may be required to apply creams or dressings and move/lift people. We get a full profile of all clients well in advance and ensure we send the appropriate staff to support them. We provide training in all the relevant areas.
Will I need to do any training?
Yes, we will ask you to complete online and occasional in-person training. We have an annual training weekend (usually in February) plus a programme of online training which we add to as new initiatives and priorities are released.
SUPPORTER STATEMENTS
I love working for Options Supported Holidays as I find it very rewarding. I have truly found my dream role, combining my passion for travel with experience of supporting others.
It's so fulfilling watching the faces of the holiday makers when they experience something new. I really feel like I am making a difference, helping them create memories that will last a lifetime.
- J
I absolutely love working for Options Holidays. It is a small family run operation with a big heart. Apart from the obvious perk of going to interesting and exciting destinations you get to be part of a team of like-minded people delivering top notch holidays to adults with additional needs. I feel so appreciated and grateful to the organisational staff who create the holidays, the amazing human beings I get to support and my fellow colleagues who help to keep everyone healthy, happy and having a good time.
- P
From leaving my mainstream 9-5 job and coming to work with Options, there’s never a dull moment. It’s a truly rewarding job, from meeting new clients to making great memories with fun and friendship in various great locations. I’ve been lucky to visit places I would never have before with this job. Working two weeks a month gives me free time too! Win win!