At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in daily activities and promote independence in a vibrant community setting.
- Company: Join Autism Initiatives, a leading charity dedicated to empowering autistic individuals.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, and a range of perks from day one.
- Other info: Flexible hours, ongoing training, and a supportive team environment await you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills and career.
- Qualifications: Experience in care/support and a full UK driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 27300 - 27300 £ per year.
Salary: £13.11
Hours: Full Time
Job Reference Number: B ComSW
Job Location: Community Services, Belfast
Closing Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
About This Role
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
- 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.
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. 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.
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.
Support Worker Required -Immediate Start employer: Autism Initiatives Northern Ireland
At Autism Initiatives, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture in the heart of Belfast. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training programmes, generous benefits including enhanced sick pay and annual leave, and a culture that values recognition and collaboration. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a range of perks designed to reward your dedication and service.
Contact Details:
Autism Initiatives Northern Ireland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Worker Required -Immediate Start
✨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 genuinely care about their mission.
✨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 interest in activities.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! First impressions matter, so make sure you look professional yet approachable. A smart-casual outfit is usually a safe bet for interviews in community services.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Support Worker Required -Immediate Start
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting others shine through. We want to see why you’re excited about this role and how you can make a difference in the lives of those we support.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in care or support work. We love seeing how your background aligns with our values and the specific needs of the role, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a great fit for the Support Worker position.
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 get the ball rolling on your journey with us.
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.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work, voluntary roles, or personal experiences that demonstrate your ability to provide care and support. Highlight situations where you've helped others develop independence or access services, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about your flexibility and willingness to work on a rota basis, including unsocial hours and weekends. Think of scenarios where you've successfully adapted to changing schedules or worked in diverse environments, as this will show your commitment to the role.
✨Prepare for the Walk
Since the role involves outdoor activities like long walks, be prepared to discuss your interest in physical activities and how you can keep pace with those you support. You might even want to mention any relevant experiences that showcase your enthusiasm for outdoor pursuits.
