Title: Support Worker
Location: Highbury, N1
Nearest Tube/Station: Highbury & Islington
Wage/Salary: £20.00 Gross Per Hour
Driver Essential? Preferrable
Essential: Experience working with children on the autistic spectrum (ASC) and a willingness to undertake online training about Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). Good communicator and physically fit
Desirable: Experience working with children with PDA would be highly desirable. Own car and able to take Finn to engage in activities of interest outside of the home in the car when required
Start Date: ASAP
Days & Hours: Two days a week, one being Wednesdays 3.30 pm to 6.30 pm and second day to be agreed. Plus alternate Saturdays 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm. Up to 18 hours per week can be offered during school holidays.
Family/Client Pets: None
Recruiter: Rachael racheal@snapcare.co.uk
About this client/child:
Finn aged 9 is a bright child who enjoys Lego, chess, drawing, and games on his iPad – he has a soft spot for Star Wars and Harry Potter! Finn is fond of nature and birds; has a great imagination, loves making up games and has a good sense of humour. Finn has Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) which presents as high anxiety and an anxiety-based need to feel in control. Finn’s additional needs are largely social, emotional, and behavioural; transitions can be difficult for him and his behavior at times, can challenge. He attends a mainstream school and aside from school, he finds it difficult to leave the house. Developing a relationship of trust with adults who care for him is really important; once established he will be very happy to spend time with you pursing activities of interest.
Overview of role:
We are looking for a Support Worker to assist Finn after school, twice a week, including Wednesdays 3.30pm to 6.30pm and 2pm to 5pm pm on alternate Saturdays. During the weekdays you will pick Finn up from school and walk home together (the family live very locally to the school). Once home you will be encouraging hand washing and preparing a snack for Finn to enjoy. You will then transition into an afternoon activity and spend time at home or in the local community before preparing a simple dinner. During the school holidays, the sessions would start in the mornings and be a mixture of half and longer days. Minimum 9 hours weekly, offering up to 18 hours. Saturdays and school holidays are a great time to engage Finn with activities outside of the home, such as trampolining, nature walks, local parks, and gardens.
Who this job would suit:
We are looking for a Support Worker with a positive attitude, a great sense of humour and someone who can remain calm whilst thinking on their feet. This will suit candidates with strong ASC experience who would welcome training about PDA and have the ability to implement PDA strategies to support the child. Prior experience of working with children with PDA would be highly regarded. A strong communicator is key as part of the role will involve providing feedback to Finn’s parents and the wider team of professionals involved in his care. Experience of complex presentations of autism and managing challenging behavior is important for this role.
What’s great about this job:
This is a lovely part-time position that would be perfect for someone looking for regular hours who has an interest in ASC, PDA and Psychology and is motivated to help children with special needs live their best possible lives. There is some flexibility with regard to days and hours for the right candidate. The family can offer job security and you will make a real difference to the life of a special child and their family.
Who is recruiting for this role?
We are working in association with a private client/case manager on this vacancy; they will be carrying out all recruitment, including final shortlisting and interviewing. By applying for this vacancy, you agree to us sending your CV and contact details to our client. Please see our website for more information.