Job Role
Experienced PA/Carer to assist a young person with ASD and ADHD (in Bedford) ECL-BB-001
Job Description
We are looking for a kind, patient and reliable Personal Assistant to support a young child during the morning school routine.
The role involves supporting a young person with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD, helping her prepare for school in a calm, structured and supportive environment.
This role would suit someone with experience supporting neurodiverse children, particularly those with ASD and ADHD, and someone who understands sensory needs, clear communication and the importance of routine.
Building trust and a positive relationship with the child is very important, and the successful candidate will need to work at her pace while gently encouraging independence and engagement.
Contract Type
Part Time, Permanent
Roles and Responsibilities
* Supporting the child to get dressed
* Encouraging eating and drinking water
* Communicating clearly and calmly, explaining tasks slowly to support communication
* Using visual supports, such as a storyboard in the bedroom, to help guide the routine
* Supporting the child to get ready for school
* Escorting the child safely to the school bus
* Ensuring the school bag and lunch box are taken to the bus and handed to the school PA (these will be prepared by mum)
* Encouraging the child to wear a grey hoodie or bomber jacket in winter, while respecting sensory comfort if they become distressed
* Supervising around the house to ensure safety
* When the PA arrives, the child will usually already be in underwear and vest, and mum will have completed most personal care depending on what time the child woke up
Specific Requirements
* Experienced supporting neurodiverse children (ASD/ADHD)
* Calm, patient and understanding
* Able to communicate clearly and slowly
* Comfortable supporting children with sensory needs
* Reliable and punctual
* Happy to build trust gradually and work at the child’s pace
Required Training
* Autism Awareness
* ADHD Awareness
* Safeguarding Children
* Paediatric First Aid
* Understanding Sensory Processing / Sensory Integration
* Makaton or basic signing communication
* Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)
About the child
* The child communicates using both speech and signing and may sign or say “please” when they want something.
* Building trust and a relationship is very important.
* They may need quiet time in the morning, which should be respected.
* They enjoy singing nursery rhymes, which can be a great way to engage.
* They can sometimes become overstimulated, particularly with clothing.
* Dressing is usually best done 5–10 minutes before the school bus arrives.
* They often take a toy or sensory item to school, such as small figurines or sensory toys.
* They enjoy watching Cocomelon and Peppa Pig on a tablet.
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