At a Glance
- Tasks: Train assistance dogs and support families in their journey with their new companions.
- Company: Join the UK's first charity led by autistic individuals, transforming lives with assistance dogs.
- Benefits: Flexible freelance role, competitive pay, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Empower autistic individuals and families while working on your own terms.
- Qualifications: Experience in dog training and a passion for animal welfare required.
The predicted salary is between 50 - 50 £ per hour.
About the Charity
Autism Dogs Charity is a pioneering, world‑class organization and the UK’s first and only assistance dog programme proudly led by autistic individuals. Accredited by the National Autistic Society and a candidate member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI), we are a passionate, multi‑disciplinary team of behaviourists, trainers, and clinicians dedicated to transforming lives through highly bespoke assistance dogs. Working with us means being part of an innovative, 5‑star rated charity where your expertise directly empowers autistic children and adults to navigate the world with independence, confidence, and true lived‑experience support.
The Opportunity
This is a highly flexible, self‑employed role with no minimum commitment required from either side. You have complete freedom to accept or decline assignments to fit around your existing schedule and manage your own workload.
Key Responsibilities
- Dog Training: Deliver foundation obedience, socialisation, public access skills, and specialised behaviour training following Charity and ADI standards.
- Family Support: Conduct training sessions in client homes, teaching handlers how to command, care for, and work effectively with their assistance dog.
- Transitions: Deliver puppies/dogs to client families and provide vital settling‑in support.
Requirements
- Experience: Demonstrable experience in dog training (ideally with assistance or service dogs) and working with families.
- Methodology: Thorough understanding of positive, reward‑based training methods and a strict commitment to animal welfare.
- Travel: Based in the UK with a valid driver’s licence, access to your own vehicle, and business motor insurance. Must be comfortable travelling to client homes and occasionally to Charity hubs in Congleton (Cheshire) or Louth (Lincolnshire).
- Compliance: An up‑to‑date Enhanced DBS check and willingness to undertake safeguarding training.
Fees & Terms
- Training Rate: £50.00 per hour (for time spent on assignments).
- Driving Time: Paid at a rate of £15.00 per hour.
- Mileage: Reimbursed at 40p per mile.
- Invoicing: Paid within 7 days of receipt, with the right to charge interest on overdue invoices.
How to Apply
If you are an experienced trainer with a passion for assistance dogs and the flexibility of freelance work, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and availability to: info@autismdogs.co.uk & natasha@autismdogs.co.uk
Freelance Dog Trainer in Congleton employer: Autism Dogs CIC
The Autism Assistance Dogs Charity is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work within a pioneering organisation that is dedicated to empowering autistic individuals through bespoke assistance dogs. With a flexible freelance structure, you can manage your own schedule while making a meaningful impact in the lives of families, all within a supportive and innovative team environment. Join us in transforming lives and enjoy competitive rates, travel reimbursements, and the satisfaction of contributing to a cause that truly matters.
