You will work closely with the child and family to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment, supporting independence and wellbeing through low-demand, child-led interactions. A playful, flexible approach is essential. The role involves joining in with the child’s interests, which currently include: Music Sensory play and being outdoors Pretend play Physical activity Trips to cafés, play parks, and other community settings. Roles and Responsibilities Provide one-to-one, child-centred support tailored to individual needs Engage in a low-demand, non-directive way that respects the child’s PDA profile Support regulation through play, movement, and sensory activities Use clear, simple language to reduce anxiety and stress responses Encourage creativity, exploration, and social interaction in a calm, predictable way Ensure the child’s physical safety and emotional wellbeing at all times Work collaboratively with the family and other professionals (e.g. therapists or educators) Adapt your approach as the child’s needs vary throughout the day and over time. Specific Requirements Essential Criteria A genuine passion for working with children with additional needs Experience supporting children with autism and a PDA profile, with practical understanding of demand-avoidant presentations Good awareness of regulation strategies, sensory needs, and the impact of sensory overload A calm, patient, empathetic, and emotionally resilient approach Excellent communication skills and the ability to build trusting relationships Reliable, punctual, respectful, and professional Flexible and responsive to changing needs Confidence in providing engaging activities at home and in the community (e.g. parks, cafés, play centres, shops) Ability to follow care plans and guidance from parents and specialists Willingness to undertake relevant training (e.g. safeguarding, first aid, communication approaches) Enhanced DBS check References required Full clean UK driving licence and access to own vehicle Willingness to use a mobile phone to take photos, with all image sharing strictly at the discretion of the parents/employer Desirable Criteria Experience working in education, childcare, health and social care, or therapy-related fields Previous experience working in a home-based setting. Required Training Qualifications in education, childcare, health and social care, or therapy-related fields SEN/Autism awareness. How will the hours be usedPattern to be agreed with the successful candidate. Typically one weekend day or evening per month, plus some school holiday cover (equivalent to approximately 4 hours per week).