At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with autism in daily living and leisure activities.
- Company: Join a leading charity dedicated to empowering autistic people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, and wellness support from day one.
- Other info: Enjoy a culture of recognition and continuous learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with autism support and a full UK driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 29300 - 30000 £ per year.
Salary: £14.17
Hours: Full Time
Job Reference Number: B 1548994DunSSW
Job Location: Dunmurry, Lisburn, United Kingdom
Closing Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026
About This Role
We are seeking a Senior Support Worker to join our team. You will work alongside people who use our services, supporting in a range of activities, including developing independence in daily living, accessing work/education and leisure activities. At Autism Initiatives we work alongside autistic people, providing specialist services tailored to each individual.
Our Values, shown below, underpin every aspect of the organisation's culture and activities in NI: Autism-Focused, Respect, Excellence, Empowerment, Collaboration, Commitment to Change and Rights-based.
Given the nature of the role, these positions are subject to an enhanced Access NI check for the successful applicants. The cost of which will be met by the organisation.
You will enjoy an enhanced range of benefits designed to reward the outstanding support that staff provide. Some of these benefits start immediately, whilst others are awarded at later dates in recognition of loyalty, dedication and long service:
- Competitive salary.
- Employer pension scheme.
- Enhanced company sick pay.
- Enhanced maternity pay.
- Access NI paid.
- NISCC fee paid after two years service.
- Generous paid annual leave.
- Incremental increases to annual leave.
- Paid bank and public holidays.
- Birthday leave.
- Option to buy and sell annual leave.
- Long service awards.
- Monthly staff cash prize draw.
- Blue light discount card.
- Employee Refer a Friend initiative.
- Free Autism specific training.
- Comprehensive induction training.
- On the job learning.
- Buddy/mentor for new staff.
- Funded QCF development opportunities.
- Continuous learning & development opportunities.
- Line management support structure.
- Regular 121 meetings.
- Annual Performance review.
- Culture of recognition.
- 24/7 employee assistance programme (confidential counselling helpline) available from day one of employment.
- Medicash health scheme, subject to eligibility.
- Menopause support line as part of Medicash scheme.
- Career break policy.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Compassionate & Bereavement leave.
- Wagestream financial planning and support App - enables you to access money earned before pay day, set up savings and more.
Essential Criteria:
- Six months experience supporting people with Autism, learning disabilities and associated conditions.
- Be flexible to work according to the needs of our services.
- NISCC registered or apply to register on appointment.
- A full UK driving license for a manual vehicle, held for a minimum of one year.
*Please note that all interviews for this position will be conducted in person at our head office - Office 1 & 2, Linden House, Beechill Business Park, 96 Beechill Road, Newtownbreda, Belfast, BT8 7QN*
Autism Initiatives are an Equal Opportunities employer. We are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in employment and service delivery.
Currently we are unable to provide Sponsorship or take over Sponsorship of an employment Visa.
Benefits of working with us
In addition to competitive pay rates, a contributory pension, and generous holiday entitlements, you'll have access to a range of additional benefits designed to recognise and reward the exceptional support our staff provide. Some benefits are available immediately, while others are awarded over time to recognise loyalty, dedication, and long service. Please note that benefits may vary by role, location, and length of service. Full details of your benefits package will be available once you join.
Below is an overview of some of the benefits you may be eligible for:
- Monthly staff cash prize draw.
- Your birthday off work every year.
- Medicash health scheme (including reimbursement for medical costs, gym discounts, and more).
- Employee Assistance Programme - free expert support on childcare, probate, money management, and work-life balance.
- Additional paid holidays after 1, 2, and 3 years of service.
- Extra paid holidays for milestone service years.
- Financial wellbeing programme offering flexible access to pay.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Career break scheme.
- Wagestream financial planning and support app - access earnings before payday, set up savings, and manage your finances.
To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. To start the process click the Continue to Application or Login/Register to apply button below.
Senior Support Worker in Belfast employer: Autism Initiatives Northern Ireland
Contact Detail:
Autism Initiatives Northern Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Support Worker in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, check out Autism Initiatives' values and think about how your experience aligns with them. This will help you show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your past experiences supporting people with autism can shine in this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share specific examples! When discussing your experience, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly demonstrate how you've made a positive impact in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Support Worker in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting autistic individuals shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in supporting people with autism and learning disabilities. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they align with our values.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the Senior Support Worker role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our careers page! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Autism Initiatives Northern Ireland
✨Know Your Values
Familiarise yourself with the core values of Autism Initiatives, such as Respect and Empowerment. Be ready to discuss how these values resonate with your own experiences and how you can embody them in your role as a Senior Support Worker.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your experience supporting individuals with Autism and learning disabilities. Highlight situations where you've helped someone develop their independence or access education and leisure activities.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions during the interview. Think about how you would handle various situations that may arise in the role, such as managing challenging behaviours or collaborating with other professionals. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about the team dynamics, training opportunities, and the support provided to staff. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the organisation is the right fit for you.