At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a fun-loving 14-year-old with complex medical needs in daily activities.
- Company: Join a caring family dedicated to helping their son thrive despite challenges.
- Benefits: Earn up to £12.90 per hour with 5.6 weeks holiday pro rata.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a young person's life while enjoying rewarding experiences.
- Qualifications: Compassion, reliability, and a willingness to learn about medical needs are essential.
- Other info: This role requires permission to work in the U.K. and is part-time (4 hours/week).
Hours : 4 hours per week
Area : South Shields
Rates of pay : Age-related national minimum wage, up to £12.90 per hour
Holidays : 5.6 weeks pro rata per annum
We’re looking for a kind and committed Personal Assistant to support a brilliant 14-year-old boy with complex medical needs.
He lives at home with his mum, dad, and older brother. While his health needs are significant, his personality truly shines through. His immune system is very fragile, so he takes medication to help prevent infections. He has a Jejunostomy tube for medication and fluids, and while he eats pureed food, he’s starting to manage small lumps too. Other medical details can be shared directly with the family.
Although his medical conditions are now stable, he has been affected by a Brain Lymphoma, which has led to neurodevelopmental challenges. He needs support with learning, communication, sensory processing, emotional development, and physical skills.
He attends Percy Hedley School and has an EHCP in place. But beyond the medical and developmental needs, he’s a fun-loving young man with a big personality. He enjoys making BluTack models, shopping trips in his chair, cars, puzzles, sensory play, and watching his dad juggle. He’s also a bit of an escape artist, so staying alert is important! He can become frustrated and may self-harm, so understanding and patience are key.
This role is about seeing the whole person and supporting him in a way that helps him thrive. If you’re compassionate, reliable, and ready to make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.
This vacancy will close as soon as a suitable candidate is appointed.
At the time of starting their employment, the successful candidate must have permission to work in the U.K.
Personal Assistant – 222419LS employer: Disability North
Contact Detail:
Disability North Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Personal Assistant – 222419LS
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with complex medical conditions. Understanding the challenges faced by the young boy in this role will help you connect better during any informal discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your experience with similar roles or situations. If you've worked with children who have special needs or complex medical requirements, be ready to share those experiences and how they shaped your approach to care.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your compassion and patience in conversations. This role requires a kind-hearted individual, so be sure to express your genuine desire to make a difference in the young boy's life when you engage with us.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss strategies for managing frustration and self-harm. Having a thoughtful approach to these sensitive topics will show that you're not only aware of the challenges but also equipped to handle them effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Personal Assistant – 222419LS
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific needs of the young boy you will be supporting. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with his medical and developmental requirements.
Show Compassion in Your Application: In your cover letter, express your genuine interest in making a difference in the life of the child. Share any personal experiences or qualities that demonstrate your compassion and patience, which are crucial for this role.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your experience in caring for individuals with complex needs. Include any relevant training or qualifications, especially those related to health care, communication, or special education.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, take the time to proofread your application. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that your passion for the role comes through clearly. A well-presented application can make a strong impression.
How to prepare for a job interview at Disability North
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, it's crucial to demonstrate your compassion and understanding. Share examples from your past experiences where you've supported individuals with complex needs, highlighting your ability to connect with them on a personal level.
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the specific needs of the young boy you'll be assisting. Familiarise yourself with terms like Jejunostomy tube and EHCP, and be prepared to discuss how you would approach his learning and emotional development.
✨Highlight Your Patience
Patience is key in this role, especially when dealing with frustration or challenging behaviours. Be ready to discuss strategies you've used in the past to remain calm and supportive in difficult situations.
✨Engage with His Interests
Show that you’re not just focused on the medical aspects but also on the fun side of life. Talk about how you would incorporate his interests, like sensory play and puzzles, into your daily activities to make the experience enjoyable for him.