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- Tasks: Support a 10-year-old boy with autism and ADHD in daily activities and social experiences.
- Company: Join People Plus Independent Living Services, dedicated to enhancing lives through personalised support.
- Benefits: Earn £14 per hour, flexible hours, and receive full training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's life while gaining valuable experience in childcare.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with additional needs and a valid driver's license required.
- Other info: DBS check provided at no cost; three-month trial period for successful applicants.
I am a 10-year-old boy and I currently attend school full-time. I have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD, and I am currently undergoing further assessments to better understand my cognitive profile and needs. My family and school believe I am developing around the cognitive age of a five-year-old, and I benefit from support that recognises and adapts to this. I love playing with my favourite toys - trains, Lego, and bugs - and I find comfort in familiar routines and environments.
I enjoy watching YouTube and DVDs, and my iPad is one of my favourite ways to relax. I have a warm and loving relationship with my family. Although I can be very funny and imaginative, I do sometimes find it difficult to cope with transitions or unexpected changes, and I may become distressed or overwhelmed.
I also need help with developing my independence, such as eating, washing my hands, dressing, and preparing for activities. I may need physical prompts or support during these times. I respond best to positive praise, clear expectations, and gentle guidance. I can be distressed by loud noises or crowded places, so you'll need to be sensitive to my sensory needs and plan accordingly. 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
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 and consistent adult who can help me before and after school, as well as at weekends and during school holidays. This includes helping me with my breakfast and transitioning smoothly from home to school and back again, 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 grandparents some much-needed respite.
As my PA, you will work 10 hours per week during term time - one hour before school and one hour after school (5 times per week). You will also support me for six hours at the weekend (Saturday or Sunday), and 18 hours per week during school holidays (days and times can be flexible). 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 drop to the floor or resist transitions, so being physically able to support me safely and calmly is important.
Working Hours / Pay Rate
16 hours per week (term time) – 10 hours per week will be supporting the transition to and from school. (10hrs Monday-Friday and 6hrs per weekend Saturday/Sunday) £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 autism, 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 Support Assistant Term and Non-Term Time 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 Support Assistant Term and Non-Term Time
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD. Understanding these conditions will help you connect better with the child you'll be supporting, showing that you're genuinely interested in their needs.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have working with children, especially those with additional needs. Share specific examples of how you've successfully supported a child in similar situations to demonstrate your capability.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss strategies you would use to help the child transition between activities. Being able to articulate calming techniques or visual aids you might employ can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your enthusiasm for creating a positive relationship with the child. Talk about how you plan to engage with their interests, like trains and Lego, to build trust and make your support more effective.
We think you need these skills to ace Personal Support Assistant Term and Non-Term Time
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific needs of the child you will be supporting. Highlight your experience with children who have autism and ADHD, and how you can adapt to their unique requirements.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects relevant experience in childcare, particularly with children who have additional needs. Include any training or qualifications that demonstrate your ability to support a child with autism spectrum disorder.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that showcases your passion for working with children and your understanding of their needs. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you can create a positive and supportive environment.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at People Plus Independent Living Services
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Personal Support Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of the child, such as their autism spectrum disorder and ADHD, and think about how you can provide the necessary support.
✨Show Empathy and Patience
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to be patient and empathetic. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported children with similar needs, highlighting your calm approach and understanding of sensory sensitivities.
✨Discuss Your Adaptability
Be prepared to discuss how you can adapt your methods to suit the child's unique requirements. Mention any tools or strategies you are familiar with, like visual timetables or calming techniques, and how you would implement them in daily routines.
✨Emphasise Relationship Building
Highlight the importance of building a positive relationship with the child. Talk about how you plan to create a safe and trusting environment that encourages the child to explore new experiences and develop independence.
