Job Overview
We are looking for a caring, patient and proactive Support Worker to provide one-to-one support for a young man with autism. He is physically independent and does not require personal care. Instead, this role is focused on helping him build confidence, develop greater independence, and navigate the practical and social aspects of everyday life.
The successful candidate will be someone who enjoys building genuine relationships and can act as a mentor as well as a support worker. They will be able to explain everyday situations, social expectations and life skills in a way that is clear, patient and meaningful to an autistic person. The overall aim is to encourage independence, helping him develop the confidence and understanding to do more for himself over time.
Responsibilities
- Build a positive, trusting and supportive relationship.
- Encourage independence by helping him develop practical life skills and confidence in everyday situations.
- Support him to understand and navigate social situations, routines and the expectations of daily life.
- Break down tasks and explain new concepts in a clear, patient and accessible way, adapting your approach to suit his learning style.
- Encourage problem-solving and decision-making rather than completing tasks for him, promoting long-term independence.
- Support him with planning and safely travelling to activities, classes and appointments, including using public transport where appropriate.
- Accompany him to social, recreational and educational activities, encouraging participation and confidence within the community.
- Introduce new experiences at a pace that feels comfortable, while encouraging personal growth and resilience.
- Help develop organisational skills, planning, time management and everyday decision-making.
- Communicate regularly with family regarding activities, achievements and any concerns.
- Maintain a safe, respectful and person-centred approach at all times.
- Occasionally accompany him on day trips or longer outings as required.
Skills & Experience
- A kind, patient and encouraging personality.
- A genuine belief in promoting independence rather than creating dependence.
- The ability to explain everyday situations, social interactions and practical life skills in a way that is easy to understand.
- Excellent communication, listening and interpersonal skills.
- Experience supporting autistic people or individuals with learning disabilities is highly desirable.
- An understanding that autistic people may process information, communicate and experience the world differently, with the ability to adapt your approach accordingly.
- Confidence supporting someone to build resilience, confidence and independence through positive encouragement.
- Reliable, organised and able to work independently.
Desirable
- Experience in autism support, education, mentoring, coaching or social care.
- A full UK driving licence and access to a car would be an advantage, although this is not essential.
- First Aid training is beneficial but not required.
What the Role Does Not Involve
- No personal care.
- No medication administration.
- No heavy lifting or physically demanding duties.
- No clinical or nursing responsibilities.
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a lasting difference in someone's life by supporting them to become more independent, confident and engaged with the world around them. We are looking for someone who sees beyond providing support and instead enjoys teaching, encouraging and empowering another person to develop the skills and confidence to live as independently as possible.
Compensation & Benefits
- £16.50 per hour - 10 hours per week with potential for more
- Free snacks and drinks provided while at work.
- Fuel reimbursement for work-related travel (where applicable).
- Free on-street parking.
Pay: Up to £16.50 per hour
Work Location: In person
