Personal Assistant / Support Worker for a Child with Complex Needs
Location: LU2 8PS (Luton area)
Hours: Up to 21 hours/week
· Schedule:
* Monday to Friday: 7:30am – 9:30am (10 hours/week) – to assist with the morning school run
* Two weekdays, preferably Monday and Tuesday: 2:30pm to 8:00pm (11 hours/week) – from school pick-up to provide care within the home
* Total: 21 hours/week
About the Role
We're seeking a kind, patient, and vigilant support worker to care for a 9-year-old non-verbal boy, who has severe autism and complex needs. This is a home-based role, focused on creating a safe, structured, and nurturing environment — both before and after school.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide close, continuous supervision at all times
* Support and engage in safe, structured sensory activities
* Follow strict safety protocols, particularly regarding gates and exits
* Assist with personal care (nappy changing, feeding, toileting)
* Morning shift (7:30am – 9:30am): Assist the school run
* Two weekday shifts (2:30pm – 8:00pm): Begin at school pick-up and continue with care in the home, supporting transitions, meals, personal care, and calming routines
* Maintain a calm, reassuring presence, especially during sensory or behavioural challenges
* Provide safe and active supervision during any community outings
* Work closely with the family to ensure consistent, high-quality support
Person Specification
We are looking for someone who is:
* Experienced with autistic, non-verbal, or profoundly disabled children
* Calm, emotionally resilient, and nurturing
* Confident managing high sensory needs and behavioural challenges
* Physically capable of supporting a child who may be resistive or floppy
* Alert, safety-conscious, and dependable
* A genuine team player, able to collaborate respectfully with others
* Energetic enough to keep up with a very active child
Essential Requirements
* Experience with children who have complex needs or developmental disabilities
* Enhanced DBS
* Driver with own vehicle – required due to remote location; a family car will be provided during working hours
* Live within a realistic commute to LU2 8PS (please confirm estimated travel time)
* Free from other job or school-run responsibilities during stated hours
* If you have children, reliable childcare must be in place during your working hours
* Willing to provide a six-week notice period to ensure smooth transitions
What You'll Gain
* A chance to truly make a difference in a child's life
* A consistent, fulfilling role in a warm, supportive home
* A respectful working environment with a family committed to positive care
* The opportunity to be part of a stable, child-focused support network
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: £13.00-£15.00 per hour
Experience:
* Support worker: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
* Driving Licence (required)
Work Location: In person