Support Worker (Child) Carlisle
Advertised on behalf of a family:
We are looking for a kind, calm and patient individual to support our 9-year-old daughter who has a condition called Fragile X syndrome. This means she has intellectual and physical issues. She is non-verbal, has an unsteady walking gait and requires supervision at all times. She is a fun-loving child, but anxiety is her main challenge and needs time to get used to new people. She has good receptive language and understands what is being said to her.
The role will involve, but may not be limited to:
- Providing full assistance with all her personal care – she wears pull ups and requires changes often, although she does use the toilet but needs prompted to do so.
- Regular change of bib due to excessive drooling
- Assist with snacks and lunch - she finger-feeds independently but requires help to open crisp packets and load yoghurt on spoon
- Assist in helping her participate with fun activities eg: play park, soft play
- Provide light-hearted distraction by using action songs. Eg: ‘Wind the bobbin up’, ‘Head shoulders knees and toes’, ‘If you’re happy and you know it.’
- Oversee her independent use of iPad’s/iPhone, Tonie box.
- Clothing adjustments when required
Applicants must be physically able to participate in play activities and keep up with her when she runs around (she is not fast but has an unsteady gait and can often fall over) and have a good sense of humour and enjoy laughter and fun. The child responds well to adults with these attributes.
Expected shifts will be predominantly on a Saturday, as well as various weekdays during school holidays. There is an average of 4 hours per week available, further details of shifts required will be discussed at the next stage of the application process.
We would require a Personal Assistant to slowly build a trusting relationship with her, scaffolded by parents initially, mostly within the home until she is confident enough to be on her own with you.
Requirements:
· Experience working with children with challenging additional needs
· Safety aware as child has low risk awareness.
· Full UK Driving licence is preferred
This position is subject to a satisfactory DBS check, funded by the employer. Applicants on the Update Service are an advantage.
Reference ID: PF-ICM040