QUALIFICATIONS

No specific qualifications are required.

SKILLS

• To be able to drive, holding a valid D1 driving licence, whilst keeping to a route schedule, ensuring passenger safety at all times.
• Ability to communicate verbally and non-verbally with service users, parents, carers and staff in a pleasant and courteous manner.
• Sympathetic to and understand the needs of the service user.
• Ability to use own initiative to resolve minor problems.
• Writing skills sufficient to fill in log sheets, reports etc.
• Flexibility regarding changing of hours or areas of work.
• Ability to undertake moving and handling tasks i.e. manoeuvring of wheelchair users to and from the vehicle.

SKILLS

• To hold an appropriate MIDAS certificate

EXPERIENCE

• Of working with people in a caring capacity.
• Of working with people with a disability.
• Of driving a large vehicle in Leeds or other large cities.
• Of working within a team.
• Knowledge of the problems of disadvantaged groups.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As our next driver, you will join a team that transports over 4,000 passengers to school/college or centres daily. We currently employ over 240 drivers, and our team is growing due to increased demand for our service. You will be integral in supporting passengers ensuring their safety, and wellbeing while on transport. You will enjoy working with people your approachability, warmth and enthusiasm will contribute positively to our passenger’s day. You will need to support passengers on off transport so a good level of physical ability will be required.

PURPOSE OF JOB

To be able to drive, hold a valid driving licence, transporting some of the most vulnerable people of Leeds from their own homes to various locations throughout the city and surrounding areas.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Transporting older people, people with physical disabilities, people with mental health problems and people with learning difficulties from home to centres and luncheon clubs as required, including assisting services users between home and the vehicle, and ensuring that the service user’s home is left safe and secure.
• Operate a flexible transport service in relation to arrival and departure times in accordance with agreements between the Transport Manager and Day Centre Managers and to respond to changes in circumstances at short notice.
• Participate with Day Centre staff in outings to various locations as required e.g. trips, shopping, theatre etc.
• Undertake recreational based activities at Day Centre which provide stimulation and interest to the members e.g. participation in discussion groups and individual conversation, games and serving refreshments.
• Deliver Community meals, ensuring the collection and recording of cash payments as required.
• Delivery of stationery, goods and materials including loading and unloading as required.
• Clean and washing of vehicles with appropriate machinery and equipment, routine daily and weekly maintenance and safety checks on vehicles and completion of appropriate logs and records as required.
• To participate in training and development activities as necessary to ensure up to date knowledge and skills.
• To undertake other duties appropriate to the post as required by the Fleet Deployment Manager.
• To comply with the requirements of all Leeds City Council and Departmental policies, procedures and staff instructions, including responsibilities under the Health and Safety Policy and Procedures.
• To actively promote and support Leeds City Council’s and Departmental Policies on Equal Opportunities

As a Driver you will bring to the role:

• Hold a D1 licence
• Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
• Available to work on a split shift between core hours of 7-10am and 2-5pm, 30hrs weekly
• Flexible to the changing needs of the service
• Approachable and caring attitude offering a warm welcome to passengers, families, carers and staff
• A good understanding of your responsibilities in regard of Health and safety
• An enhanced DBS will be required
• A good level of physical ability is neede