Buddy/Support Worker

Independent Lives; Crawley; On-site; GBP 14,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

Independent Lives is seeking a friendly, patient Support Worker to assist a young person with autism in Crawley. You will help with daily activities, encourage participation in new experiences, and ensure safety and wellbeing in a warm, respectful environment.

The role emphasises building trust, clear communication, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions while working with another Support Worker in a 2:1 setting. Driving licence is helpful but not essential.

Qualifications

• Experience of Autism
• Able to speak and read English to a reasonable standard
• Reliable with good timekeeping
• Able to follow instructions and work on own initiative
• Hygienic, tidy and well organised
• Patient and possess excellent interpersonal skills
• Honest and cheerful
• Creative
• Fit and healthy to undertake duties
• Willing to work 2:1 with another Support Worker
• Non-smoker preferred or willing to refrain during working hours

Responsibilities

• Support the individual to engage in activities and enjoy new experiences in a safe environment.
• Keep relationships positive and build trust with the person and family.
• Maintain high standards of health and safety, and follow all policies.

Skills

Autism experience

Patience

Interpersonal skills

Reliability

Initiative

Creativity

English language skills

Job description

I am a very friendly, smiley and engaging young person. I love talking to people, keeping busy and, of course, enjoying my food!, I can sometimes become hyperactive, and you will need to be able to support me to remain calm and settled, so experience of supporting young people with autism is essential.

You must be patient, understanding and caring, with the ability to build a trusting relationship and develop a positive rapport with me. I am looking for someone who can encourage me to enjoy new experiences, take part in activities and have fun in a safe and supportive environment.

Having a driving licence and your own car would be helpful but is not essential., Respectful of the employer's privacy and confidentiality

• Reliable with good timekeeping
• Able to both follow instructions and work on own initiative
• Hygienic, tidy and well organised
• Fit and healthy to undertake the required duties
• Patient and possess excellent interpersonal skills
• Honest and cheerful
• Creative
• Able to speak and read English to a reasonable standard
• Able to always work to high standards of health & safety
• Experience of Autism
• Confident and calm
• Able to build trust and rapport
• Willing to work 2:1 with another Support Worker

Additional requirements

Non-smoker preferred or someone willing to refrain from smoking during working hours

Notes

All applicants must have the right to work in the UK and be willing to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check if required. If the role is offered on a self-employed basis, you will be responsible for the cost of your own DBS check.