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Personal Support Carer for Non-Speaking Child with Additional Needs (5330)

Personal Support Carer for Non-Speaking Child with Additional Needs required in Suffolk nr Stowmarket

2x 4-hour sessions per month term time and up to 10 hours available per week in school holidays

£15.00 per hour

Job reference: 5330

Although this job description is correct at present, it may change from time to time after negotiation with the post holder.

Must have the right to work in the UK to apply for this role, sponsorship not available.

Job purpose

We are seeking a kind, patient and intuitive carer to support J, a young child with complex developmental needs. This role is about relationship first: building trust, understanding J’s communication, and supporting him to feel safe, regulated and engaged.

Initially, support will take place within the family home, focusing on play, sensory activities, and shared routines. As trust and confidence grow (for both J and the carer), this may gradually extend to short outings and community-based activities.

This is not a “hands-off” role – J is physically active and needs close supervision – but it is also not about control or compliance. We are looking for someone who understands that behaviour is communication, and who can respond with calm, curiosity and care.

J can move away very quickly and requires an adult who is attentive, physically able to keep pace with him and confident responding calmly where there is a risk of him moving away unexpectedly.

We also have a very bouncy Labradoodle called Conker, so applicants will need to be comfortable around dogs.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 support tailored to J’s individual needs.




• Personal care, including nappy changing.




• Build a trusting, consistent relationship with J over time.




• Occasionally accompanying the family on outings.




• Support emotional regulation through play, sensory activities and movement.




• Support J’s communication using PECS, visual supports and other communication strategies used with him. Experience of signing would be desirable.




• Follow visual supports, routines and communication strategies used at home and school.




• Encourage engagement, independence and confidence at J’s pace.




• Maintain close supervision and ensure J’s safety at all times, particularly during physical play, transitions and outings.




• Prepare simple meals and snacks as required.




• As the relationship develops, there may be opportunities to take J on short outings independently.




• Communicate clearly and honestly with parents about sessions, progress and any concerns.




• Keep a short, written record for parents to review at the end of each session.




• Maintain appropriate boundaries and confidentiality.

Shared Lives Carers are classed as self-employed and receive generous tax incentives

Leicestershire County Council Shared Lives Service

Shared Lives Carers are classed as self-employed and receive generous tax incentives

Leicestershire County Council Shared Lives Service

Ceredigion County Council Direct Payment Support Service