Who We Are: A Network Built on Quality
Mango Minds is a nationwide specialist provider of higher education support. We partner with universities to deliver tailored, one-to-one support to students in receipt of Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA).
We are defined by our commitment to quality and a highly supportive culture. We invest in the professionals we work with. Our mission is to provide excellent student outcomes, built on a framework of dedicated Lead Mentor guidance, collaborative peer communities, and ongoing CPD. When you join us, you are joining a network dedicated to high standards and practical, reliable support.
Specialist Mentor (ASC) Role Overview
We are looking for Specialist Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) Mentors to provide one-to-one well-being and academic life mentoring. Rather than focusing on essay writing, this role centers on helping students with autism adapt to the social, emotional, and structural shifts of university life.
Pay & Flexibility
- Rate: £20.00 per hour (Self-Employed/Freelance Contractor)
- The Mango Minds Difference: We handle the client matching, marketing, and invoicing so you can focus on mentoring. While standard role-related admin (such as session notes and student communication) is required, there are zero overheads and no room hire fees, making it a hassle-free addition to a private practice or portfolio career.
What You'll Do
- Help students navigate the transition to university, supporting them in developing practical communication and emotional regulation skills.
- Support students in building practical life skills, independent living routines, and social confidence.
- Monitor mental well-being, recognize the early signs of overwhelm, and escalate concerns appropriately.
Essential Eligibility (SFE Mandatory Qualifications) To meet SFE funding criteria, you must hold a Bachelor’s degree and meet the required autism-specific training or qualifications. See the pre-screening questionnaire for the full checklist.
The Mango Minds Advantage: Why Professionals Choose Us
We believe that high-quality student outcomes require highly supported professionals. When you join the Mango Minds Network, you gain access to:
- Support & Development: Dedicated Lead Mentor support, ongoing CPD, and continuous clinical guidance.
- A Culture of Quality: Access to a collaborative peer-mentor community to share strategies and reflective practice.
- Efficient Allocation: We aim to ensure your time is spent mentoring, not waiting, with quick student allocation and fast referral contact times.
- Flexibility & Pay: A competitive hourly rate of £20/hr and the freedom to choose your own availability as a self-employed contractor.
- Simplicity: Direct, transparent contracts and an ideal structure for a scalable portfolio career.
Location & Status
- Location: Greater Manchester (UK) – Join our network to provide support fully remotely, on-campus, or hybrid, based on student needs and your location.
- Status: Self-employed/Freelance Contractor. You must be eligible to work in the UK and possess proof of active professional membership/qualifications.
Pay: £20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee mentoring programme
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Work from home
Application question(s):
- Do you have previous experience providing one-to-one DSA support to higher education students? (Note: Answer does not automatically disqualify, but helps assess training needs).
- (YES/NO) Any Undergraduate Degree (Level 6) PLUS comprehensive training in adult autism (such as the 6 National Autistic Society online modules or approved equivalent training) PLUS a commitment to 10 hours of autism-specific CPD annually.
- (YES/NO) A relevant undergraduate degree that contains a substantial, verified autism component.
- (YES/NO) A Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert), Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s, or PhD in Autism, Asperger’s, or Critical Disability Studies focusing on autism.
Education:
Experience:
- Neurodivergent Support: 1 year (preferred)
Language:
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Location:
- Manchester, Greater Manchester (required)
Willingness to travel:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Manchester (Greater Manchester)
