At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a young adult with additional needs at home and in the community.
- Company: Join a caring family environment with a focus on support and growth.
- Benefits: Flexible shifts, rewarding work, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Work with a friendly family and their three small dogs.
- Why this job: Be a positive influence and help someone thrive in their daily life.
- Qualifications: Full UK driving licence and a caring, patient attitude.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
We are looking for reliable, caring and motivated Personal Assistants to support a young adult with additional needs at home and in the community, including attendance at Briars Barn.
- Support with personal care, including showering, dressing and hygiene
- Assist with structured daily routines
- Support access to community activities and day placements (Briars Barn)
- Drive a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV)
- Assist with meal preparation and feeding if required
- Carry out household tasks (cleaning, laundry, general upkeep)
- Support use of a specialist communication aid (training provided)
- Attend appointments and outings
Essential Requirements
- Full UK driving licence and confidence driving a WAV
- Ability to work on your own initiative
- Flexibility is essential – you will be expected to cover other PA’s sickness and annual leave
- Basic IT skills
- Reliable, punctual and committed
Personal Qualities
- Patient, calm and reassuring
- Bubbly, positive and motivational personality
- Excellent sense of humour
- Ability to build strong relationships
- Willingness to learn (experience in autism/epilepsy helpful but not essential)
Important Information
- You will be working in a family home environment
- There are 3 small dogs in the home
- This role requires consistency and commitment
Working Pattern
- Shifts include:
- Early mornings (7am starts)
- Day support (including Briars Barn 9–4)
- Afternoon/evening shifts (2:30–7:30)
- Weekend working
- A rota is in place, with flexibility required to support cover.
Female Applicants Only
This role is open to female applicants only in accordance with the Equality Act 2010 (Schedule 9, Part 1) due to personal care requirements.
Carer/PA employer: Melanie Cotter
Contact Detail:
Melanie Cotter Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Carer/PA
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company and the role inside out! Research Briars Barn and understand their values. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be supporting someone with additional needs, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively. Role-play common scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! During interviews, let your bubbly and positive side shine through. Share personal stories that highlight your patience and commitment, as these qualities are key for a Carer/PA role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Carer/PA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Caring Side: When writing your application, let your caring nature shine through! Share any experiences that highlight your ability to support others, especially in personal care or community activities. We want to see how you can bring a positive vibe to our team!
Be Specific About Your Skills: Make sure to mention your driving experience, especially if you’re comfortable with a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV). If you have any relevant IT skills or experience with communication aids, don’t forget to include those too. We love details that show you’re the right fit!
Flexibility is Key: Since the role requires covering for other PAs, highlight your flexibility in your application. Talk about times when you’ve adapted to changing schedules or stepped up when needed. We appreciate candidates who can go with the flow!
Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we want to see your personality, remember to keep your application professional. Use a friendly tone but ensure it’s clear and concise. And don’t forget to apply through our website – it’s the best way to get your application in front of us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Melanie Cotter
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the job description. Familiarise yourself with the specific duties like personal care, meal preparation, and supporting community activities. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Personal Qualities
As a Carer/PA, your personality is just as important as your skills. Be ready to share examples of how you've been patient, calm, and reassuring in past experiences. Highlight your bubbly and positive attitude, as these traits are essential for building strong relationships with those you support.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Initiative
Flexibility is key in this role, so be prepared to discuss how you've adapted to changing situations in the past. Share instances where you've taken the initiative, whether it was covering for a colleague or finding creative solutions to challenges. This will show that you're reliable and committed.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about potential scenarios you might face in the role, such as assisting with personal care or using a communication aid. Practise how you would handle these situations and be ready to discuss your approach during the interview. This will demonstrate your readiness for the job and your willingness to learn.