At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a fun-loving 9-year-old with activities and community outings.
- Company: Join a caring family environment in Westerhope, Newcastle upon Tyne.
- Benefits: Earn £15.50 per hour with flexible hours during term time and holidays.
- Other info: Be prepared for fun activities like swimming, baking, and sing-alongs!
- Why this job: Make a real difference in Alfie's life while enjoying exciting adventures together.
- Qualifications: Experience with neurodiverse children and a bubbly personality are essential.
The predicted salary is between 15 - 15 € per hour.
Location: Westerhope, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Hours: 5 hours per week term time and 12 hours per week school holidays, including weekend work; flexibility required, per position.
Pay: £15.50 per hour. A driver is essential for this role; business insurance required.
About the Role
I am currently looking for two personal assistants to work on a 2:1 support basis to support me accessing the community so I can enjoy my chosen activities and venues safely. You must have a good level of fitness and have experience working with children with Autism, Learning Disabilities and PICA, and be able to communicate using PECS. I use my tablet or text to show my needs. You must be willing to access the community and stay indoors if I choose to remain at home, but I love being out and about so this would not happen very often. I require my PAs to display good boundaries and assertiveness; routine and structure are key to me remaining regulated. I have a GSOH, so you need to be bubbly, fun, and cheerful.
Key Responsibilities
- Personal Care Support: Assistance with aftercare after toileting and prompting to remind me I need the loo. Support with eating and cutting up my food if required.
- Daily Living Support: Assistance with social activities and accessing the community. Safeguarding me when I am out in the community; I always need full supervision. Participation in TV or YouTube and enjoying sing-a-long sessions. Support dressing appropriately for the weather.
Who You Are
- Physically fit – able to safely and securely keep me safe and manage challenging behaviours if I become dysregulated.
- Able to follow instructions from my parents carefully and work with sensitivity.
- Respectful of boundaries, cultural differences, and personal space.
- You must have experience working with neurodiverse children and be able to demonstrate your experience practically; experience of working in a SEND environment would be advantageous.
- Bubbly, happy, and outgoing. Naturally upbeat, positive, patient and compassionate.
- Good at taking the initiative but also comfortable being guided by my parents or myself.
- Responsible, with strong attention to detail and vigilant always.
- Non-smoker due to allergens.
About Me (Alfie)
I am 9 years old and reside with my mum and younger brother. I attend school which I enjoy. I require structure and routine and individuals with clear boundaries and the ability to reinforce instructions to keep me safe and regulated, as I have no sense of danger. I am non-verbal so you must be willing to learn all my cues and quirks. I enjoy visits to The Tim Lamb Centre and anywhere that has sensory activities. I love the park, especially swings, and I like to be outdoors. I will need areas that are securely enclosed, so I don’t abscond; swimming is a good option too, but it needs to be during quiet sessions, or ideally an individual slot at somewhere like the Alan Shearer Centre where I am a member, as too much noise can dysregulate me. I love action songs especially The Wheels on the Bus and Old McDonald, so expect to join in with all the actions. I would like to go swimming when it is very quiet, which might mean you need to start work early on those occasions to catch the early quiet sessions, especially during the school holidays. Trampolining is always something I enjoy so we could go to a trampoline park too. I will lead by hand if I require something or use my technology to show you what activities I would like to engage in; I do like to bake so this is another activity we may enjoy together. Mum says I am very strong so you need to be able to manage this should I become upset; I can harm myself if I become dysregulated, I will need you to keep me safe if this does occur. I am outgoing, bubbly, and a happy boy and I would like my PAs to have the same traits as me. I am looking forward to having my very own PAs and going out on new adventures with them.
At the time of starting their employment, the successful candidate must have permission to work in the U.K.
Personal Assistants- AHMNCL employer: Disability North
Join our vibrant team in Westerhope, Newcastle upon Tyne, where we prioritise a supportive and inclusive work culture. As a Personal Assistant, you will have the unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the life of a young boy with neurodiverse needs, while enjoying flexible hours and competitive pay. We value personal growth and offer a nurturing environment that encourages creativity, compassion, and fun, making every day an adventure.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Personal Assistants- AHMNCL
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Alfie before the interview! Familiarise yourself with his interests and needs. This will not only help you feel more confident but also show the parents that you're genuinely interested in providing the best support.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills, especially using PECS. Being able to demonstrate your understanding of non-verbal cues during the interview can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your bubbly personality! Alfie is looking for someone cheerful and fun, so let your positive energy shine through during the interview. Share examples of how you've created enjoyable experiences in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Personal Assistants- AHMNCL
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience:When applying, make sure to highlight any experience you have working with neurodiverse children. We want to see how you've handled similar situations and what skills you bring to the table!
Be Yourself:We’re looking for bubbly and cheerful personalities! Don’t be afraid to let your own personality shine through in your application. Show us why you’d be a great fit for Alfie’s adventures.
Follow Instructions Carefully:Pay close attention to the application instructions on our website. We appreciate candidates who can follow directions, as it shows you can listen and respond to guidance—just like you’ll need to do with Alfie!
Flexibility is Key:Since the role requires flexibility in hours and activities, mention your availability clearly. We want to know how you can adapt to Alfie's needs and schedule, especially during school holidays!
How to prepare for a job interview at Disability North
✨Know Alfie’s Needs
Before the interview, take some time to understand Alfie's specific needs and preferences. Familiarise yourself with Autism, Learning Disabilities, and PICA, as well as communication methods like PECS. This will show your potential employer that you’re genuinely interested in providing the best support.
✨Show Your Fun Side
Since Alfie loves being bubbly and cheerful, be sure to let your personality shine during the interview. Share examples of how you've engaged with children in a fun and positive way, especially in activities like singing or outdoor adventures. This will help demonstrate that you can match his energy!
✨Highlight Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience working with neurodiverse children. Bring specific examples of how you've managed challenging behaviours and maintained safety. This will reassure the interviewer that you have the skills needed to keep Alfie safe and happy.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since the role requires flexibility with hours and activities, be ready to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt. Mention any past experiences where you’ve had to adjust plans on the fly, especially when it comes to accommodating sensory needs or routines.
