At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a fun-loving 7-year-old with autism and ADHD in daily activities and social skills.
- Company: Join a caring family environment focused on growth and positive experiences.
- Benefits: Earn £14 per hour, flexible hours, and gain valuable experience in supporting children with additional needs.
- Other info: Full training provided, with a supportive team and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's life while enjoying rewarding moments together.
- Qualifications: Experience with additional needs, patience, and a full driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 32000 € per year.
I am a 7-year-old girl with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD. I live with my Mum and enjoy playing games on my Switch, visiting the shop, and watching/playing with Paw Patrol figures. I have a funny and imaginative personality and can communicate verbally, but sometimes get my words mixed up. I find it difficult to cope with transitions or unexpected changes, which can make me distressed or overwhelmed. I like to be in control in situations to feel safe, but this can lead to upset when expectations change.
I need my Personal Assistant (PA) to be patient yet firm, supporting me to improve my ability to interact with my peers, such as sharing and playing appropriately. I require help developing my social skills and positively accessing school and activities. I respond best to positive praise, clear expectations, and gentle guidance. Loud noises or crowded places can distress me, so sensitivity to my sensory needs is essential.
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 improve my well-being and help me access the world more safely, confidently, and joyfully.
Tasks and Duties:
- I currently require a PA to support me on a 2:1 basis alongside my existing PA when accessing the community and activities outside my home.
- The role of my 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 during term-time and school holidays.
- This includes helping me transition 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 Mum some respite.
- You will work up to 5 hours per week during term time, ideally helping me transition to school and social clubs.
- During school holidays, you will work up to 3 hours per week (days and times can be flexible).
- You’ll need to be patient and adaptable, using tools like visual timetables, Now and Next boards, and calming strategies to help me regulate my emotions.
- Being physically able to support me safely and calmly during transitions is important.
Working Hours / Pay Rate:
- 5 hours per week (term time)
- 3 hours per week (during school holidays)
- £14 per hour
- 20 miles a week to claim at £0.40 per mile
Type of Person Required:
- Will need a DBS check (this can be arranged if not current)
- A person with experience working with individuals with additional needs
- A car and full driver’s license are essential
- Ability to be assertive, set clear boundaries, and have a 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, at no cost to yourself
Relief Personal Support Assistant in Merthyr Tydfil employer: The Rowan Organisation
As a Relief Personal Support Assistant, you will be part of a compassionate and supportive environment dedicated to enhancing the lives of children with additional needs. Our work culture prioritises patience, understanding, and positive reinforcement, ensuring that both you and the child you support can thrive together. With flexible hours and comprehensive training provided, this role offers a unique opportunity for personal growth while making a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Relief Personal Support Assistant in Merthyr Tydfil
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the child’s interests and needs before your first meeting. This way, you can show that you’re genuinely interested in supporting them. Plus, it’ll help you build rapport right from the start!
✨Tip Number 2
When you meet the family, be open and friendly. Share a bit about yourself and how you plan to support their child. This helps create a comfortable atmosphere and shows you’re committed to making a positive impact.
✨Tip Number 3
During your interactions, use clear and simple language. Kids with ASD and ADHD often respond better to straightforward communication, so keep it easy to understand and encourage them to express themselves too.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to highlight your experience with similar roles when chatting with potential employers. They want to know you’ve got the skills to handle transitions and sensory needs, so let’s show them what we’ve got!
We think you need these skills to ace Relief Personal Support Assistant in Merthyr Tydfil
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what makes you passionate about supporting children with additional needs.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your skills and experiences match what we're looking for. Mention specific examples of how you've supported individuals with similar needs in the past.
Show Your Understanding:Demonstrate that you understand the unique challenges faced by the child you'll be supporting. Talk about your approach to creating a safe and positive environment, and how you plan to use tools like visual timetables to help with transitions.
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 this rewarding role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Rowan Organisation
✨Know the Child's Needs
Before the interview, take some time to understand the specific needs of the child you'll be supporting. Familiarise yourself with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD, and think about how you can create a safe and supportive environment for her. This will show your potential employer that you're genuinely interested in making a positive impact.
✨Demonstrate Patience and Adaptability
During the interview, be prepared to discuss scenarios where you've had to be patient and adaptable. Share examples of how you've successfully managed transitions or unexpected changes in the past. This will highlight your ability to handle similar situations with the child.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the child communicates verbally but may get her words mixed up, it's important to demonstrate your effective communication skills. Practice using clear, simple language and be ready to explain how you would encourage her to express herself while being sensitive to her needs.
✨Highlight Your Experience with Additional Needs
Make sure to mention any previous experience you have working with individuals with additional needs. Discuss specific strategies you've used, such as visual timetables or calming techniques, to support children in similar situations. This will reassure the employer that you have the right skills for the job.
