Personal Assistant/Support GCIL.TA.HMcA.LJ.1.26 Location G3

Personal Assistant/Support GCIL.TA.HMcA.LJ.1.26 Location G3

Personal Assistant Required - Cat Lover, Gamer & Professional Joke Maker Needs a Sidekick!

A bit about me

Hi, I'm Tom. I'm 11 years old and looking for a Personal Assistant to join my team.

My mum describes me as "intelligent, hilarious, angry, illogical, charismatic and controlling." I describe myself as "Pussums the Cat."

I'm autistic and have ADHD, which means I experience the world a little differently. I prefer to feel in control of situations. When things become overwhelming or don't go as expected, I can become very anxious, upset, or angry.

When I'm feeling dysregulated, my nervous system can switch into fight-or-flight mode, which means I might run away, hide, or struggle to stay safe. Because of this, I need someone who can provide close supervision, support me to regulate my emotions, and help me enjoy activities safely.

The good news? Once I get to know and trust people, I'm sociable, affectionate, funny, and great company.

Things I Love

• Cats
• Gaming
• Quiet outdoor spaces
• Swimming
• Singing and rapping
• Making up jokes
• Talking about my latest interests

What You'll Be Doing

As my PA, you'll support me to:

• Access activities and opportunities in the community
• Build my confidence and independence
• Stay safe when out and about
• Spend time doing things I enjoy
• Navigate situations that feel overwhelming
• Have fun and make happy memories

Most importantly, you'll take the time to get to know me and build a positive relationship based on trust, respect and understanding.

Who I'm Looking For

You don't need to know everything from day one. My family will help you learn what works best for me.

Essential:

• Valid First Aid Certificate
• Experience of, or willingness to learn about, Pathological Demand Avoidance as a distinct autism profile
• Physically able to keep up with me if I decide to run for short distances
• Able to spot potential risks and help keep situations safe
• Calm and patient when I'm overwhelmed
• Creative and adaptable when plans change
• Kind, understanding and reliable
• Comfortable working in a home with a (real) cat

Desirable: 

• Lived experience of autism and/or experience supporting someone with a similar profile
• A genuine interest in building a long-term relationship with me
• Happy to join in with activities such as swimming and community outings
• Experience supporting emotional regulation or de-escalating challenging situations
• A hobby, skill or interest you'd enjoy sharing with me

I currently enjoy French, Chinese, making up songs, foraging and talking about maths, but by the time you read this I may have moved on to something else!

Hours and rate of pay

11 hours per week

The role includes:

• At least one weekday school pick-up (minimum 3pm to 6pm)
• Some flexibility around weekend working
• Additional availability during school holidays would be welcomed

We're happy to discuss the most suitable working arrangement with the right person.

Rate of pay: £18 per hour

All reasonable expenses incurred during outings and activities for both Tom and the PA will be covered by Tom's family.

Additional Information

PVG Scheme membership will be required before employment can commence.

Interested?

If you'd like the opportunity to build a rewarding relationship with a funny, unique and memorable young person, we'd love to hear from you.

Please send us:

• A little information about yourself
• Details of any relevant qualifications and experience
• How you meet the essential and desirable criteria
• Why you are interested in the role
• Any restrictions on the hours you are available to work

Come and join Team Tom.

Apply today by sending your CV to par@gcil.org.uk quoting the reference “GCIL.TA.HMcA.LJ.1.26” in the subject line and body of the email. If you have any questions, please contact GCIL at 0141 550 4455.