At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a fun-loving 7-year-old with autism during school trips and activities.
- Company: Join a caring family environment focused on growth and support.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive pay, and training provided.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's life while enjoying fun activities together.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, especially those with additional needs, and a valid driver's license.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth and to build a lasting relationship.
The predicted salary is between 14 - 16 £ per hour.
I am a 7-year-old boy and I currently attend school full-time. I have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and I am awaiting assessment for suspected Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). I live with my mother and four older siblings and I have 2 dogs. I love technology and enjoy playing Roblox and Minecraft on my devices. I find comfort in familiar routines and environments. I am chatty when able to talk about my interests. I prefer playing on my own and I like to make choices in situations rather than being told exactly what to do. This makes me feel like I have some control and reduces my anxieties.
I have a warm and loving relationship with my mother, and I find it difficult to allow my siblings to spend time with her as I like to always have her attention. Two of my siblings have support needs so it is important that my mother gets to spend equal time with us all. I can be very funny and imaginative and I am physically very fit and healthy so can participate in lots of different activities. I have good verbal communication so I am able to let you know my wants and needs but I am not great at describing my emotions. I do sometimes find it difficult to cope with transitions or unexpected changes, and I may become distressed or overwhelmed.
I need help with doing activities I enjoy, independently of my mother and siblings but there will also be times where I need support to participate in whole family activities. I sometimes require transition support from my school trips as I can find it difficult to leave an activity I am enjoying and my mother needs to be available for my siblings (one of whom has complex health needs). I respond best to positive praise, clear expectations, and gentle guidance. This role is more than just supervision - it's about creating a lasting, positive relationship with me. It's about helping me grow in confidence, enjoy new experiences, and develop life skills. Your support will not only improve my well-being but also offer reassurance and help me access the world more safely, confidently, and joyfully.
Tasks and Duties: I currently require 2 PAs to support me during sessions but hopefully, as we get to know each other and our relationship develops, in the future, I will only need 1 PA during sessions. I need my PAs to collect me from some of my school trips so that I can enjoy participating in the trip with my peers but can then leave the activity safely. The role of my Personal Assistant (PA) is vital in supporting me to access daily life experiences that my peers enjoy. I need a kind, calm, assertive, and consistent adult who can help me with school trips, after-school, weekends, and during school holidays. This includes helping me with transitioning to and from activities, supporting me to play safely, and encouraging me to explore my interests through community activities and structured social opportunities. Your support will also give my mother some much-needed respite.
As my PA, you will work 6 hours per week. These hours can be flexible and the most important thing to me is that you are consistent and reliable. You'll need to be patient and adaptable, able to use tools like visual timetables, Now and Next boards, and calming strategies to help me regulate my emotions and feel secure. I sometimes resist transitions, so being physically able to support me safely and calmly is important.
Working Hours / Pay Rate: 6 hours per week at £14 per hour. 20 miles a week to claim at 0.40 pence per mile.
Type of Person Required: Will need a DBS check (this can be arranged if not current). A person with a background in childcare and works with children with ASD, additional needs. A car and full driver's license essential. Firm manner to keep me safe.
Training: Full training will be provided in-house.
About The Job: Salary Frequency Calendar Monthly or Fortnightly - By BACS. Successful applicant will be subject to a three-month trial period. A DBS check will be required, this will be at no cost to yourself. Please note that this advert has been placed on behalf of one of our Service Users. Should your application be successful, you will be directly employed by the customer and not PeoplePlus.
PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANT X 2 in Merthyr Tydfil employer: People Plus Independent Living Services
Contact Detail:
People Plus Independent Living Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANT X 2 in Merthyr Tydfil
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the family and the child’s interests before the interview. Familiarise yourself with autism spectrum disorder and ADHD to show you understand their needs. This will help us connect with the family and demonstrate that we’re the right fit.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since the role involves supporting a child with specific needs, being clear and positive in your interactions is key. We should be ready to showcase our ability to provide gentle guidance and encouragement during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss how you would handle transitions and unexpected changes. Share examples from past experiences where you’ve successfully supported children in similar situations. This will show that we can keep the child calm and secure.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to highlight your flexibility and reliability! The family needs someone consistent, so let’s emphasise our commitment to being there for the child during school trips and activities. Apply through our website to make sure we’re in the loop!
We think you need these skills to ace PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANT X 2 in Merthyr Tydfil
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 children like our service user.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your skills and experiences align with what we're looking for. Mention any relevant experience with children, especially those with ASD or additional needs, as it shows us you understand the role.
Show Your Understanding: Demonstrate that you understand the unique needs of the child you'll be supporting. Talk about how you would approach transitions, use calming strategies, and create a positive environment. This will show us that you're ready to make a real difference!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about us and what we do!
How to prepare for a job interview at People Plus Independent Living Services
✨Know the Child's Needs
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of the child you'll be supporting. Understand autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and how it affects communication and behaviour. This knowledge will help you demonstrate empathy and a tailored approach during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience working with children, especially those with additional needs. Share specific examples of how you've successfully supported children in similar situations, focusing on your ability to create a positive and safe environment.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
Emphasise your ability to adapt to changing situations and routines. Discuss strategies you've used in the past to help children cope with transitions or unexpected changes, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Patience and Calmness
During the interview, convey your calm and patient nature. You might even want to share a scenario where you had to remain composed in a challenging situation. This will reassure the interviewer that you can handle the demands of the role effectively.