Personal Assistant – KIRNCL

Disability North; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

Disability North is seeking a Personal Assistant to support an 11-year-old boy with autism in Newcastle upon Tyne. The role requires a driver with their own vehicle and is 3 hours on Saturdays or Sundays during term time, with 6.5 hours available flexibly in school holidays.

Applicants should be calm, patient, and energetic, able to engage in activities the child enjoys and ensure safety at all times, both in and out of the home.

Qualifications

• Experience with autism is essential.
• Must be patient, calm and reliable.
• Ability to keep a child safe and to supervise in/outside the home.

Responsibilities

• Support the child during activities and outings.
• Assist with routines and communicating as needed.
• Provide supervision and ensure safety in all settings.

Skills

Experience with autism

Patience

Safety awareness

Calm under pressure

Reliability

Driving licence

Job description

Location: Fenham, Newcastle upon Tyne

Hours: 3 hours on a Saturday or Sunday during term time, with 6.5-hours available flexibly during the school holidays

Hourly Rate: £14.25 per hour

Driving licence and own vehicle essential

I am looking for a caring, patient and energetic Personal Assistant to support my 11-year-old son, Kieran.

Kieran is a happy, bubbly boy who loves being out and about. He particularly enjoys swimming, bowling, visiting parks and going out for something to eat - especially McDonald's! He is very talkative, although sometimes he can find it difficult to get his words out or make himself understood.

Kieran has autism and can become very upset or angry when he is struggling to communicate or when things become overwhelming for him. At times, this can result in him lashing out at others or hurting himself. It is really important that his PA is calm, patient and able to support him through these moments. Kieran has a communication device which can be used when he is finding it difficult to express himself verbally.

Kieran has no awareness of danger and needs close supervision at all times, particularly when outside the home. He has been known to run off, so I am looking for someone who is physically fit, alert and confident in keeping him safe. He also needs support with using the toilet when out and about.

Kieran is still learning to read and attends Thomas Bewick School. I would love to find someone who can build a positive relationship with him, understand his needs and help him enjoy activities safely while encouraging his independence where appropriate.

The PA must have previous experience of supporting children with autism. Kieran is unable to use public transport, so a full UK driving licence and access to your own car are essential.

Support is required on a Saturday or Sunday during term time, we are flexible on days in the school holidays.

Most importantly, I am looking for someone who is reliable, understanding and genuinely enjoys spending time with children like Kieran. I want him to feel safe and comfortable with his PA while having fun and enjoying the activities he loves.

For more information, please see the Job Description

This vacancy will close as soon as a suitable candidate is appointed.

At the time of starting their employment, the successful candidate must have permission to work in the U.K.