Personal Assistant (PA) for a Child with a Learning Disability
Reference: DP/AG07
Location: Grappenhall, Warrington
Hours & Salary
Hours: 4 hours per week, typically up to twice weekly after‑school collection or a full 4‑hour session on a weekend day/evening by prior agreement.
Salary: £12.60 per hour
Start Date: ASAP
About the Role
We are looking for a kind, patient, and reliable Personal Assistant to support a bright and loving 7‑year‑old child with a learning disability who is non‑verbal and requires support with personal care. The PA will work closely with the child and family to promote a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment that encourages independence and well‑being.
Key Responsibilities
* Collect the child from school twice weekly, with flexibility to offer additional hours over weekends and holidays by prior agreement.
* Provide one‑to‑one support tailored to the child’s individual needs.
* Assist with all aspects of personal care, including intimate care and toileting.
* Support daily routines such as dressing, feeding and hygiene.
* Use non‑verbal communication methods (e.g., symbols, gestures, or assistive technology) to engage with the child, ensuring their well‑being and reducing stress.
* Encourage play, creativity and social interaction in a calm and structured way.
* Always ensure the child’s safety and emotional security.
* Work collaboratively with parents and other professionals involved in the child’s care (e.g., therapists, educators).
* Adapt to the child’s changing needs and maintain flexibility in approach.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
* Passion for working with children with additional needs.
* Hands‑on experience supporting children with learning disabilities, non‑verbal communication, sensory processing or autism.
* Excellent communicator, able to use non‑verbal or alternative methods.
* Understanding and sensitivity around providing intimate care while encouraging independence.
* Physically fit to assist with moving, handling and personal care tasks.
* Patient, empathetic, calm, compassionate and emotionally resilient.
* Reliable, punctual, respectful and professional.
* Ability to work flexibly and respond to the child’s changing needs.
* Confident in providing engaging and sensory activities in both home and external environments.
* Ability to follow care plans and guidance from the child’s family and specialists.
* Willingness to undertake relevant training (e.g., safeguarding, first aid, communication methods).
* Enhanced DBS check.
* References required.
* Clean UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
* Ability to use a mobile phone for pictures and sharing images with full discretion of the parents/employer.
Desirable Criteria
* Qualifications in education, childcare, health & social care or related fields.
* Knowledge of alternative communication tools such as PECS, Makaton, or AAC devices.
* Previous experience working in a home‑based setting.
This application will be subject to an Enhanced check through the Disclosure and Barring Service.
How to Apply
Send a cover letter outlining your interest and suitability for the role to iltrecruitment@disabilitypartnership.org.uk and quote the reference DP/AG07. The Independent Living Team will forward your application to the employer, who will arrange interviews directly.
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