Bus Driver

JOB PURPOSE:

Briefly describe the overall purpose or function of the job

The purpose of the role is to safely transport clients between their home and day centre and any other driving duties or general duties as required by the Centre Manager in relation to the smooth running of the day care centre.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

In a series of brief statements describe the principal accountabilities of the job, i.e. specify activities and end results

Driver

● shall in conjunction with the Centre Manager (CM) be responsible for the planning of appropriate routes for the collection and delivery of clients

● shall ensure all clients are wearing seat belts and that wheel chairs are secured

● should build up trusting relationships with clients and their carers so that they feel secure and welcome on their way to and from day care service

● needs to respect the rights, dignity and confidentiality of all clients

● shall ensure that observations / assessments of clients made during the journey are reported in a timely manner to CM or other appropriate person. Any communication from family members in relation to clients to be passed along to CM as soon as possible

● shall carry out regular safety checks of the vehicle and equipment (First Aid kit) and ensure all equipment is in good working order. Any findings should be noted and reported to CM for further action

● should ensure the vehicle is kept clean and tidy (inside and out) at all times

● should (when necessary) take vehicle to be washed and can claim expenses for same on producing of relevant receipt to CM

● should inform CM of any difficulties with the bus and NOT undertake repairs themselves

● should keep appropriate daily mileage figures, repairs and servicing records

● should report and fill in of any Incident Report forms immediately following any incidents so as important information is not forgotten

● should promote teamwork by assisting and supporting other staff in their duties

● should ensure contact with clients is made via the CM and transport staff should not telephone family members unless instructed so by CM so as to avoid any confusion

● should plan their working day ahead of time (e.g. who is driving & who is escorting)

Refuelling of the vehicle should take place after evening delivery of clients to ensure the vehicle is ready for the morning.

● shall only use the vehicle at the direction of CM and for no other purpose other than the business of The Alzheimer Society of Ireland

Service Administration

● adhere to service provision, H&S policies and procedures as set out by the Society

● assist in promoting a positive and safe environment for both clients and staff, wear appropriate non-slip footwear and yellow High Visibility vest

● avail of training opportunities identified by the CM

● participate in staff meetings and one to one meetings with the CM / CES to contribute to the ongoing development and enhancement of the service

● ensure the bus is kept clean and in good working condition at all times (oil / tyres / brakes / lights / doors / seat belts) and that the resources of the centre are used correctly

● ensure tax and insurance certificates are kept in date

● ensure if on any day that medications that may cause drowsiness need to be used that CM is notified and that duties that day should not involve any driving

The principal accountabilities outline the main duties. However, in an organisation such as the Society, it is inevitable that tasks may arise which may not fall within the remit of the above list of main duties. Employees are therefore required to respond with a flexible approach when tasks arise which are not specifically covered in their job description. Should an additional responsibility become a regular part of an employee’s job, the job description will be amended to reflect this.

JOB HOLDER ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

Identify the essential knowledge, skills and behaviours required

Knowledge (Education & related experience):

● D Driving Licence for more than 8 passengers, MAM of not greater than 750 kg

● D1 Driving Licence for not more than 16 passengers, not exceeding 8 metres and MAM of not greater than 750 kg

● Current & Up to Date Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC)

● If possible, 3 years previous experience of driving similar or larger buses

Skills (Special training or competence):

● Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

● Good knowledge of local area to facilitate the planning of most efficient routes

● Good observational and organisational skills

● Ability to work as part of a team and on own initiative

● Training in dementia, care of elderly or related area

● QQI Healthcare training an advantage

Key Behaviours:

● Patience, Empathy, Reliability, Flexibility, Enthusiasm