At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate groups for autistic children, ensuring high-quality support and fun activities.
- Company: Resources for Autism supports autistic individuals, promoting inclusion and personal development since 1997.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 25 days leave, ongoing training, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: We welcome diverse candidates and are committed to neurodiversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of autistic individuals while working in a compassionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading groups and supporting autistic people is essential; strong communication skills are a must.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
About Resources for Autism (RfA)
Resources for Autism (RfA) is a values-driven organisation delivering services and support in London and the West Midlands. Our mission is to support autistic people to live happy and fulfilling lives, and to change society’s attitude to autism. We value Inclusion, Creativity, Compassion, Courageousness and Expert, and we look for people who want to make a difference.
We pride ourselves on openness, community commitment and mutual support. We offer flexible working where possible and maintain a low staff turnover as part of a productive, supportive and warm working culture.
Our ethos is acceptance of each individual as they are, working with families, teachers, professionals and networks to ensure the person is understood and supported to be their best. We focus on neurodivergence awareness and resilience in services for autistic people and families.
Our Services
All of our services across children, young people, adults and parent/carers mirror our mission to provide safe, fun and meaningful support that enables personal development. We ensure our staff are well trained, meet safeguarding expectations and are encouraged to upskill throughout their career with Resources for Autism.
The Role
The role of the Autism Group Coordinator is a key part of the services team, responsible for overseeing, delivering and shaping provisions within our groups and community service, and for providing supervision and support to our team of support workers. You will lead groups and support the development and delivery of groups while ensuring high quality and holistic support for the individuals accessing our services.
We are entering a new 5-year strategy (2025–2030) and developing this service and role. We are seeking a values‑driven candidate for a 6‑month secondment to help deliver and develop this service, working closely with the service manager and coordinators. A candidate with experience running groups, knowledge of autism, and the ability to adapt communication to meet the needs of users, families, staff and volunteers is preferred.
Main Responsibilities
- Lead groups for autistic children and young people with a range of needs, including supporting the delivery of others and coordinating the provision.
- Dedicate time to admin tasks, oversee groups, ensure high-quality delivery, and support staff development.
Leadership & Line Management
- Lead groups supporting children and young people with varying needs.
- Provide a safe, person-centred environment where autistic young people can have fun and build confidence.
- Supervise, support, and manage performance of support workers and group leaders.
- Foster a cohesive team culture aligned with RfA values, with clear line management and development.
Service Delivery & Development
- Oversee and participate in delivery of group services for children and young people, including term-time and holiday programmes.
- Support full capacity, including proactive recruitment and space advertising.
- Monitor quality, plan activities inclusively, and meet the needs of individuals with complex and lower support needs.
- Analyse service data and feedback to identify trends and opportunities for development.
- Develop processes with Services to enhance the provision.
- Lead and deliver autism sessions, including session planning and resources setup.
- Facilitate pre- and post-session team meetings to reflect and respond to needs.
- Oversee staff–child ratios, individual support plans and medical plans.
- Provide high-quality autism-specific support based on interests and needs.
- Work with Safeguarding Lead to implement safeguarding policies across services.
- Identify and manage risks with clear processes for staff and volunteers.
- Collaborate with the Behaviour Support Team in line with our person-centred approach.
- Promote a culture of safety, dignity and respect in all settings.
Training, Quality & Compliance
- Ensure all staff and volunteers are trained and compliant with RfA policies and sector standards.
- Maintain robust quality assurance systems with ongoing improvement in collaboration with managers.
- Support staff to implement consistent standards for planning, delivery and evaluation of services.
Finance, Monitoring & Reporting
- Collaborate with the Finance Team to deliver services within financial parameters.
- Monitor delivery against funder KPIs and reporting requirements; ensure timely submissions.
Stakeholder Engagement
- Develop and maintain relationships with referrers, families and external agencies to ensure accessible and responsive services.
- Represent RfA at external meetings and forums, advocating for autistic individuals and families.
Strategic Contribution
- Work with the Director of Services to shape the strategic direction of RfA’s services.
- Lead or contribute to initiatives that promote innovation, inclusion and sustainability.
Person Specification
- Experience of leading groups; experience in youth and play work settings.
- Experience supporting autistic people with complex needs using autism-specific strategies and sensory awareness.
- Passionate and values-driven with strong communication skills adaptable to colleagues, professionals, users, families, volunteers and donors.
- Excellent organisational and prioritisation skills; good understanding of safeguarding.
- Previous management experience of staff and/or volunteers; experience conducting risk assessments.
- Experience and understanding of mental health.
- Standard skills: IT proficiency (Office 365 & Excel), self-starter, independent working, non-judgemental, compassionate and confidential.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
- RfA is a Disability Confidant employer; candidates with a disability who meet minimum essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview.
- We welcome applications from global majority candidates, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates to increase representation and improve outcomes for our community.
- We are a neuro-affirming employer with a strengths and rights-based approach to neurodiversity.
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Administrative
Industries: Mental Health Care
To discuss the role informally, please email: pst@resourcesforautism.org.uk
RfA is a Disability Confidant employer and candidates who meet the minimum essential criteria and have a disability will be guaranteed an interview.
We particularly welcome diverse applicants to increase representation and ensure better outcomes for our community.
Groups Coordinator in Birmingham employer: Resources for Autism
Resources for Autism is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where staff are valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of autistic individuals. With flexible working options, generous leave policies, and a strong commitment to employee development, RfA cultivates a warm and collaborative culture that prioritises personal growth and well-being. Join us in our mission to create a more inclusive society while enjoying the benefits of being part of a passionate team in London and the West Midlands.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Groups Coordinator in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the values of Resources for Autism. Understanding their commitment to inclusion, creativity, and compassion will help you align your approach during interviews and discussions, showcasing that you share their vision.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Resources for Autism. Engaging with them can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led groups or supported individuals with autism. Highlighting these instances will demonstrate your capability and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and best practices in autism support. Being knowledgeable about recent developments in the field will not only impress your interviewers but also show your commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
We think you need these skills to ace Groups Coordinator in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Organisation's Values:Resources for Autism is a values-driven organisation. Make sure to highlight how your personal values align with theirs, particularly in areas like inclusion, creativity, and compassion. Use specific examples from your experience that demonstrate these values.
Tailor Your CV:When applying for the Groups Coordinator position, ensure your CV reflects relevant experience in leading groups and working with autistic individuals. Emphasise any previous roles where you demonstrated strong communication skills and adaptability.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should not only express your enthusiasm for the role but also detail your understanding of autism and your approach to supporting individuals with varying needs. Mention specific strategies you've used in past roles that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your application, be sure to include specific examples of your experience in youth and play work settings, as well as any project management or staff supervision roles. This will help demonstrate your capability to lead and develop group services effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Resources for Autism
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Resources for Autism's core values: Inclusion, Creativity, Compassion, Courageousness, and Expert. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and provide examples of how you've demonstrated these values in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Experience with Groups
As a Groups Coordinator, your experience in leading groups is crucial. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed group dynamics, supported individuals with varying needs, and created inclusive environments. Highlight any relevant training or strategies you've used to engage participants effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. During the interview, adapt your communication style to connect with the interviewers. Use clear, concise language and be mindful of non-verbal cues. Share instances where you've successfully communicated with diverse groups, including service users, families, and colleagues.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and approach to safeguarding. Think about potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them. Prepare to discuss how you would ensure a safe and supportive environment for autistic individuals while managing staff and resources effectively.
