Please note: This role is linked to an individual we support who currently lives with his parents and will be moving into his own home soon (LA3 post code). We are building a new support team in preparation for this move. As a result, the position does not offer an immediate start, and the anticipated start date is around the end of October. There will, however, be some training and shadow shifts at his current home address beforehand (LA2 postcode). This may suit applicants who are happy to plan ahead and start with us once the move has taken place.
About the role:
Jack is a young gentleman with autism looking for a dedicated support worker to help him live a fulfilled life in his own home. He enjoys outdoor activities like walking, horse riding, shopping and spending time in the local community. He also appreciates good company and would love someone who can support his routine while respecting his independence and way of doing things. A driver is required for this role to support Jack with all his activities.
This role is part of a team that works together to provide the best support based on Jack's personal needs, making every day meaningful and engaging for him.
What Jack is Looking For in His Support Worker:
* Skills:
* Excellent communication skills
* Good listening skills, including the ability to use an iPad for communication
* Patience, resilience, and respect for his independence (Jack prefers to do things his way)
* Physically fit and energetic to keep up with outdoor activities
* Well-organized and reliable
Personality & Characteristics:
* Bubbly, kind, and understanding
* Empathetic with a sense of humour
* Willing to engage in activities like walking, cooking, and spending time outdoors
Practical Requirements:
* Must not be allergic to horses (due to Jack's love for horse riding)
* Able to walk long distances in various weather conditions
* Valid driver's license (as Jack enjoys going out and about)
* Experience with autism or a willingness to learn
* Non-smoker (essential)
About The Role
PLEASE NOTE WE ARE UNABLE TO OFFER SPONSORSHIP FOR THIS ROLE AT THIS MOMENT IN TIME.
You will part of a bespoke team supporting a young person within his own home. You will support him as part of a team that works together in ways that are led by the individuals needs.
This role requires empathy, compassion, resilience, problem-solving skills, respect for professional boundaries, and a commitment to improving the lives of people we support. Most importantly, a genuine passion for working with and supporting people is essential, along with a desire to be an advocate for individuals with learning difficulties and mental health support needs.
Responsibilities will include assisting with daily tasks, offering emotional support, and managing challenging behaviours when necessary. You will empower the individuals to develop life skills, make informed decisions, and build confidence in their independence. This includes support with budgeting, promoting self-care, and serving as a trusted advocate for their needs and aspirations.
Responsibilities:
* Support Jack in daily activities, both at home and in the community, ensuring his routine is followed.
* Engage in Jack's hobbies such as walking, horse riding, and swimming.
* Help him maintain his independence while ensuring he's safe and well-supported.
* Ensure clear communication using tools like an iPad.
* Be organized and ready to handle the practical aspects of his day-to-day life.
We believe in values-based recruitment and in building teams that are truly matched to each person we support. If you share our values of Individuality, Citizenship, Choice, Independence, Collaboration and Equality, we'd love to hear from you.
Our Safeguarding Commitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable individuals we support. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment and uphold the highest standards of safeguarding practice.
As part of our rigorous recruitment process, all successful candidates will be subject to:
* A thorough pre-employment screening, including reference checks from previous employers.
* An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including checks against the barred lists, where applicable.
* Right to work verification and identity checks.
* Employment history review, with clarification of any gaps.
It is a criminal offense for people who are barred from working in regulated activity (under the Safeguarding and Vulnerable Groups Act 2006) to apply for roles that require them to work unsupervised with that particular group (i.e. adults at risk, children, or both)
Equal Opportunities
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees by creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. We believe that diversity enriches our organisation and enables us to better support the communities we serve.
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age, disability, gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. Our recruitment decisions are based solely on skills, experience, and suitability for the role.
If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Required Criteria
* Are you allergic to horses? Must not be allergic to horses (due to Jack's love for horse riding)
* Do you have a valid driver's licence? (as Jack enjoys going out and about)
* Are you able to walk long distances in various weather conditions (Jack enjoys being outdoors no matter what the weather)
* Do you have experience supporting people with Autism and Learning Disabilities?
* Are you a non-smoker? (this is essential for the role)
Skills Needed
About The Company
We deliver high-quality, individualised support built around what matters to each person - day and night. Our small, well-matched teams help people build friendships, join community life and pursue long-term goals. As part of Lancashire's Small Supports approach, we embed inclusion, citizenship and continuity in everything we do.
Company Culture
We believe in teamwork, learning and appreciation—supported by reflective practice and meaningful training shaped by lived experience. We build small, skilled, well-matched teams around each person, we partner with individuals, families and advocates to provide day and night support designed around what matters to each person—friendships, community life and long-term goals.
Company Benefits
Culture of recognition
Free 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Line – offering support with range of challenges such as stress, anxiety, bereavement, relationships, housing, finances, legal matters, family and childcare, health advice, and more.
'Refer a friend' scheme
Employee discounts scheme
Access to our company caravan in the Lake District available at special rate for all our employees
Meaningful, comprehensive training and professional development to help you grow
Progression Opportunities
We emphasizes work-life balance, values based employment and team dynamics.
Retirement plan and/or pension, Referral bonus, Competitive salary, Long service recognition, Annual Rise, Culture of recognition, Progression opportunities, Long service awards
Salary
£14.00 per hour