Senior Care Assistant (Days) based at Norwood, Ipswich
Job Reference
REQ026487
Date posted
5 February 2026
Closing date
19 February 2026
Location
Ipswich, IP1 3ST

About the role
We are looking for an experienced, compassionate Senior Care Assistant to join our team at MHA. This is a key leadership role within the home, supporting the Home Manager and senior team to deliver high-quality, person-centred care and to lead, motivate and develop care colleagues.
As a Senior Care Assistant, you will take charge during shifts, including deputising for other senior colleagues when required. You will lead by example, support safe and effective care delivery, and help create a warm, respectful environment where residents can live well and with dignity.
What you will do
- Take temporary charge of the home during the absence of other senior colleagues, ensuring safe and effective day-to-day running.
- Lead, support and supervise care and ancillary staff, helping them reach required standards and develop their skills.
- Provide hands-on care and health supervision to residents when required, always promoting dignity, privacy and choice.
- Support the Home Manager in meeting statutory, regulatory and organisational requirements, including record-keeping and audits.
- Administer medication in line with the Medication Policy where delegated.
- Support care planning, key working and the development of meaningful activities that enhance residents’ quality of life.
- Carry out or support regular 1:1s, supervisions and appraisals in line with policy.
- Promote good practice in health & safety, fire safety, food safety and infection prevention.
- Be flexible to cover care shifts, on-call duties and occasional travel for meetings or training.
About you
We are looking for someone who is confident, organised and committed to high standards of care.
You will bring:
- Previous experience working in a care setting.
- Experience of leading a shift or deputising for a manager.
- Medication administration experience.
- Good IT skills, including use of email and basic office systems.
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
- The ability to lead, motivate and support a team.
- Sensitivity to the needs of older people and an inclusive approach to care.
- A Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (or equivalent) is desirable, or a willingness to work towards this.
Why join MHA?
You will be joining an organisation with strong values, a supportive culture and a genuine commitment to helping people live later life well. At MHA, Senior Care Assistants play a vital role in shaping the quality of care and supporting both residents and colleagues to thrive.
Rewards and benefits
In addition to a competitive hourly rate, you will enjoy:
- 28 days holiday (including bank holidays) and an option to buy annual leave (pro-rota for part time)
- A strong pension scheme and life assurance
- Free DBS checks and uniforms
- Confidential counselling, chaplaincy support and access to our hardship fund
- Flexible options to buy or sell annual leave, plus family-friendly policies
- Discounts through the Blue Light Card, Health Service Discounts and the Vivup app
- A full induction, ongoing training, recognised qualifications and clear progression opportunities
- Long service awards to celebrate your contribution
About the home
Norwood care home in Ipswich
Norwood is a vibrant and welcoming home where colleagues work as one team to support residents living with dementia. The atmosphere is friendly and positive, with colleagues committed to making daily life meaningful and enjoyable for those they care for.
With a strong emphasis on dignity, independence and personalised support, colleagues are encouraged to build relationships, contribute ideas and bring compassion to their work. The home reflects MHA’s charitable values, promoting kindness, teamwork and personal growth.
For job seekers wanting a supportive environment where they can develop specialist skills, Norwood offers a rewarding place to build a purpose-driven career.
For more information about the home, please click here
Please note that interviews may take place prior to the closing date and if a suitable candidate is appointed the role may close early.
Recruitment agencies: please note, MHA do not accept unsolicited CVs from recruitment agencies, regardless of whether they are on our Preferred Supplier List (PSL). We only accept CVs from agencies that have been appointed and briefed by MHA’s Recruitment Team.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
MHA are fully committed to the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) as this is embedded in our values: respect, nurture and inspire. In addition, as a committed employer we have been awarded level 2 under the Disability Confident Scheme.
More about our EDI commitmentsPlease note that interviews may take place prior to the closing date and if a suitable candidate is appointed the role may close early.
Recruitment agencies: please note, MHA do not accept unsolicited CVs from recruitment agencies, regardless of whether they are on our Preferred Supplier List (PSL). We only accept CVs from agencies that have been appointed and briefed by MHA’s Talent Acquisition Team.
Not right for you?