Job Details
Job Title: Part time - Personal Assistant
Location of Job: Portgordon / Moray College
Contract Type: Permanent, subject to a successful three-month probationary period.
Working Hours: Term Time:
Friday 08.45am-4.15pm (40 weeks per year),
School/College Holidays:
4.5 hours to be used flexibly, as agreed with the employer.
Additional hours may also be available to provide cover for holidays and sickness within the support team. Flexibility is essential, and working arrangements will be discussed and agreed with the employer.
£16.88 per hour
Mileage will be reimbursed at 45p per mile whilst escorting the young person in the community.
- Job Purpose and Way of Working
The purpose of this role is to provide person-centred support to a young person with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and pathological demand avoidance (PDA) as he transitions into adult support services and further education.
This is a rewarding opportunity to support a young person to develop independence, confidence, social skills, and life skills within both educational and community settings. The successful applicant will build a positive and supportive relationship with the young person while encouraging engagement in meaningful activities aligned with his interests, including visiting historical locations and participating in community-based opportunities.
The role will involve supporting the young person both at home and within the wider community, including attendance at college, social activities, day trips, and potential volunteering opportunities. Some activities may involve significant travel, therefore good organisational skills, planning abilities, and effective time management are essential to maximise the support available.
- Main Duties and Responsibilities
Duties will include, but are not limited to:
- Supporting the young person to attend college during term time and assisting with a smooth transition into adulthood and further education.
- Providing support with organisation, time management, study skills, and understanding coursework.
- Supporting participation in day trips and activities, including planning and preparation in advance.
- Assisting the young person within the family home with chosen activities and developing independent living skills such as cooking, housekeeping, and basic household tasks.
- Supporting access to community activities and outings as requested by the family.
- Encouraging the development of money management and budgeting skills.
- Supporting the young person to develop social confidence, communication skills, friendships, and appropriate social interactions.
- Promoting confidence, self-esteem, independence, and positive relationships with peers and family members.
- Working collaboratively with the young person, family members, and professionals to ensure support is tailored to the young person’s views, wishes, and goals.
- Providing constructive and professional feedback where appropriate, identifying concerns sensitively and working towards practical solutions.
- Acting as an advocate for the young person and recognising when additional support may be required.
Full training and ongoing guidance will be provided to successful applicants.
Any questions concerning these duties may be asked at the interview stage. Full training will be provided for all successful applicants.
· Supervision and reporting relationships
The Personal Assistant will be directed by and accountable to the employer.
The successful applicant must be able to follow guidance and direction regarding the young person’s support needs while maintaining professionalism, confidentiality, and respect for the family’s privacy at all times.
· Skills, abilities and desirable personal qualities
Applicants should be:
- Reliable, trustworthy, and punctual
- Patient, understanding, and compassionate
- Able to work effectively on a one-to-one basis and as part of a wider support team
- Confident in managing challenging situations calmly and positively
- Able to communicate effectively with the young person, family members, and professionals
- Organised and proactive, with good planning and time management skills
- Flexible in their approach to work and support arrangements
Applicants must hold a full UK driving licence and have access to a vehicle insured for business use.
Experience of supporting individuals with autism and/or PDA would be beneficial, although not essential, as training will be provided.
· Training
Mandatory training will be provided. This includes Adult support & protection. Any other training needs will be discussed and determined by the Employer and social worker.
· References and the Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme
A reference from 2 employers, one of which should be current or recent is required. Employees will be required to register with the PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) scheme. Further information can be found at www.disclosurescotland.co.uk
To apply for this position, please contact [email protected] quoting REF PORSF0925
The Moray Council Self-Directed Support Team exists to support people to employ their own Personal Assistants and/or purchase services using Direct Payments. As an organisation we are not the employer, but merely assist people to recruit staff when required. If you are employed, your contract will be with the person in receipt of the Direct Payment and not with The Moray Council.
Pay: £16.88 per hour
Work Location: In person
