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- Tasks: Support individuals in daily living, education, and leisure activities.
- Company: Join Autism Initiatives, a charity dedicated to empowering autistic people.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, and unique perks like birthday leave.
- Other info: Flexible hours, ongoing training, and a supportive work culture await you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in care/support and a full UK driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 27300 - 27300 £ per year.
We are seeking Full-time Support Workers to join our team in Community Services Belfast (Primarily supporting Outreach services however working across Community Services also). 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.
Essential Criteria:
- Working, voluntary and or personal knowledge of providing care and/or support.
- Be flexible to work on a rota basis that includes job rotation in various services, unsocial hours and weekends.
- NISCC registered or apply to register on appointment.
- Full UK Driving Licence for a manual vehicle held for at least one year.
- Must be able to drive a manual vehicle as there is a requirement to drive the people we support in their own vehicles.
- An interest in outdoor/indoor Activities is essential, as Activities will include Long Walks, including Nature Walks and occasional up-hill walks: Up to three times per week, up to a maximum distance of 12 Kilometres per walk (the distance may vary depending on the Person supported).
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. Please ensure that you have the right to work in the UK or a valid working permit.
Your previous employment: we will require confirmation of the past five years of your employment history. Relevant qualifications to the role (for some roles qualifications are not essential as full training will be given. Please check the essential criteria). A minimum of two reference contact details, one of which must be your current/most recent employer.
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.
To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page.
Support Workers in Newtownabbey employer: Autism Initiatives Northern Ireland
Contact Detail:
Autism Initiatives Northern Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Workers in Newtownabbey
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, check out Autism Initiatives' values and think about how you can align your experiences with them. This shows you're not just looking for any job, but that you're genuinely interested in being part of their 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 relate to the role of a Support Worker, especially in terms of providing care and support.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share specific examples! When you're in the interview, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe your relevant experiences. This helps you communicate clearly and effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to ask questions! Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the role or the team. This shows you're engaged and keen to learn more about how you can contribute to the amazing work at Autism Initiatives.
We think you need these skills to ace Support Workers in Newtownabbey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting autistic individuals shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in care or support roles. We love seeing how your background aligns with our values and the specific requirements of the Support Worker role.
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 understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application via 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 the Values
Familiarise yourself with the core values of Autism Initiatives: Autism-Focused, Respect, Excellence, Empowerment, Collaboration, Commitment to Change, and Rights-based. Be ready to discuss how these values resonate with your own experiences and how you can embody them in your role as a Support Worker.
✨Show Your Passion for Support Work
Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your commitment to supporting individuals, especially those with autism. Whether it's through work, volunteering, or personal experiences, showcasing your genuine passion will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
Since the role requires working on a rota basis, be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to different schedules. Highlight any previous experiences where you've successfully managed flexible working hours or job rotations.
✨Engage in Active Listening
During the interview, practice active listening. This means not just hearing but understanding what the interviewer is saying. Respond thoughtfully to their questions and show that you value their insights. This will demonstrate your communication skills, which are crucial for a Support Worker.