AC BS: Two Personal Assistants – Support a Fun 13-Year-Old Boy Who Loves Adventures/Edinburgh

Lothian Centre for Inclusive Living; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A caring organisation in Edinburgh is looking for two reliable Personal Assistants to support a lively 13-year-old boy with autism and a learning disability. The role involves providing 2-to-1 support during fun activities such as swimming and visits to play centres. Essential requirements include experience with challenging behaviours and a willingness to learn communication methods. Competitive pay rates: £14.82 for Enhanced Rate PA and £12.87 for Standard Rate PA. Email to express interest and include job reference AC BS.

Qualifications

• Must have experience supporting young people with challenging behaviours.
• At least one team member must be a driver with access to a car.
• Member of the PVG Scheme (or willing to join).

Responsibilities

• Provide safe and engaging support during community activities.
• Support communication using Boardmaker symbols.
• Assist with mobility and ensure safety while using a wheelchair.

Skills

Experience supporting young people with challenging behaviours

Ability to learn basic Signalong

Understanding of Boardmaker symbols

Reliability and patience

Job description

Overview

I am a 13-year-old boy who is full of fun and energy, with a cheeky sense of humour. I have a severe learning disability and autism, and I am non-verbal. I’m looking for two caring and reliable Personal Assistants to support me for 3 hours each week.

I love swimming, going for walks (I use a wheelchair), trips to the beach, messy play, going out to cafés, visiting The Yard play centre, seeing the penguins at the zoo, and the occasional treat at McDonald’s – all the usual favourites! I am cheeky and fun, but I do need 2-to-1 support at all times. I’m tall and stocky, so you’ll need to be physically able to keep up with me.

Hours

• 3-hour slot each week (additional hours may be available).
• 2 Personal Assistants working together.
• Proposed shift is during the weekend day; however, I’m open to considering different hours for the right people.

Pay Rates and Requirements

• Enhanced Rate PA – £14.82 per hour
• Must have experience supporting young people with challenging behaviours.
• A solid understanding of what to expect in this type of role.
• Confident to guide and support less experienced team members.
• Standard Rate PA – £12.87 per hour
• Experience working with children or young people is preferred.
• Must be open to training and guidance from the Enhanced Rate PA.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide safe and engaging support during community activities (swimming, walks, play centres, café visits, outings).
• Support communication using Boardmaker symbols for now-and-next activities.
• Use (or be willing to learn) basic Signalong to help me express myself.
• Assist with mobility and ensure my safety while using my wheelchair.
• Work as part of a 2:1 support team.
• Support with personal care if needed.
• Be reliable, patient, and willing to join in with the fun!

Essential Requirements

• At least one team member must be a driver with access to a car (mileage paid).
• Physically fit to provide safe support.
• Member of the PVG Scheme (or willing to join).

Desirable Qualities

• Understanding of Boardmaker symbols (or willingness to learn).
• Basic Signalong (or willingness to learn).
• Friendly, patient, and dependable.
• Comfortable supporting a young person with autism, non-verbal communication, and learning disabilities.
• Happy to get involved in fun activities (swimming, outings, play centres, etc.).

If you enjoy making a difference, can work as part of a supportive team, and are up for plenty of fun and laughter along the way, I’d love to hear from you!

How to apply

Please email your interest in the position, including the job reference AC BS, to [e-mail]. You’re welcome to send your CV and a cover letter too.