At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in daily activities and promote independence in a caring environment.
- Company: Join Autism Initiatives, a leading charity focused on empowering autistic individuals.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, and a range of employee perks.
- Other info: Comprehensive training and career development opportunities available.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in care or support, flexibility, 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). The successful applicant would be expected to keep pace.
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 Worker/carer - Full Time employer: Autism Initiatives Northern Ireland
At Autism Initiatives, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values respect, empowerment, and collaboration. Our Belfast location provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of autistic individuals while enjoying a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive pay, generous annual leave, and continuous professional development opportunities. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that prioritises employee well-being and growth, ensuring you feel valued and recognised for your contributions.
Contact Details:
Autism Initiatives Northern Ireland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Worker/carer - Full Time
✨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 your flexibility and commitment to empowering others.
✨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. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can really make a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to ask questions! At the end of your interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared about the role or the team. This shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about how you can contribute to the amazing work they do.
We think you need these skills to ace Support Worker/carer - Full Time
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what makes you passionate about supporting others.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for this role. Highlight your relevant experience in care or support, and show how your values align with ours at Autism Initiatives. This will help us see why you’d be a great fit!
Show Your Flexibility:Since the role involves working on a rota basis, it’s important to mention your flexibility in your application. Let us know about your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends and unsocial hours.
Follow the Application Process:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s super easy, and we’ll guide you through the process. Just click on the application button and follow the steps to ensure your application gets to us smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Autism Initiatives Northern Ireland
✨Know the Values
Familiarise yourself with Autism Initiatives' core values: 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 Care
Demonstrate your genuine interest in supporting autistic individuals. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to care and how you've helped others develop independence in their daily lives. This will show your potential employer that you're not just looking for a job, but that you truly care about making a difference.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about specific situations you might encounter as a Support Worker. Think of examples where you've had to adapt your approach to meet someone's needs or overcome challenges. Practising these scenarios will help you articulate your problem-solving skills and flexibility during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the training opportunities available, the team dynamics, or how success is measured in the role. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if the organisation is the right fit for you.
