Personal Assistant (Part-Time)

Support for a Child with Autism and Learning Disabilities

Location: Community-based (local outings and activities) – Ipswich, IP1, Suffolk.

Hours: Part-time – 3 hours per week (usually on a weekend day)

Pay: £13.00 per hour

Funding: Direct Payments

Job Overview

I am looking for a caring, patient and reliable Personal Assistant (PA) to support my 5-year-old son who has autism, is non-verbal and has a learning disability. The role involves supporting him to access and enjoy activities in the community safely while helping him build confidence, social skills and independence.

About My Son

My son is a happy and energetic little boy who enjoys being outdoors, visiting parks, going for walks and exploring play areas and sensory activities. He is non-verbal and has no awareness of danger, so he requires constant supervision and support when out in the community.

Key Responsibilities

• Support outings such as parks, walks and play centres.
• Ensure safety and wellbeing at all times.
• Encourage engagement with activities and surroundings.
• Follow guidance from parents on routines and strategies.
• Provide feedback to parents about outings.

Person Specification

• Kind, patient and understanding.
• Experience working with children with additional needs.
• Reliable, responsible and trustworthy.
• Able to build a positive relationship with a young child.
• Must be able to drive and have own vehicle (petrol costs covered).
• Physically able to keep up with an active child.
• Comfortable supporting a child in the community.
• Enhanced DBS for working with children (or willing to obtain).
• Able to provide references.

Hours Flexibility

The usual hours will be around 3 hours per week, typically on a weekend day. There may be some flexibility in days and times where possible. Additional hours during school holidays or occasional extra sessions may also be available by agreement.

Additional Information

The role will mainly involve taking my child out for activities in the community. Parents will provide guidance on routines, likes, dislikes and strategies that work best. The successful applicant will be expected to respect confidentiality and safeguard the wellbeing of the child at all times.

If you are interested in this position and feel you would be a good match, please get in touch for further information.