Care Worker for Young Male Adult with Complex Health and Learning Needs, Trauma and Demand avoidant Behaviours, and his Therapy Dog

We are looking for a reliable, kind, and fun-loving support worker to provide in-home support for a young adult male with complex additional health and learning needs and occasional behaviour that challenges. He enjoys gaming, drumming, music, socialising and various other activities. He lives in his own home with a therapy dog that plays a key role in his emotional and behavioural well-being. The ideal candidate will have a calm, positive attitude, a good sense of humour, and a passion for helping others live their best life. You will provide person-centred care and support, helping him manage his daily routine and support him in the activities he loves. This role also involves assisting with the care of his therapy dog and working closely with his family and other staff to ensure consistent and high-quality support, predominantly in the comfort of his own home. There are a variety of shifts available and a minimum of two overnight stays per week.

Responsibilities

Help maintain a structured daily routine that promotes his independence and engagement in college and extracurricular activities; Participate with him in activities he enjoys, including gaming, listening to music, and outdoor activities; Accompany him to appointments, therapy sessions, and social outings as needed; Involve and assist him with household tasks such as meal preparation, light cleaning, and laundry in his home; Manage and de-escalate more challenging behaviours in a calm, supportive manner, following the behaviour management plan; Build a trusting relationship with him to foster emotional well-being and stability; Provide emotional support during difficult moments and offer encouragement to promote his independence and happiness; Assist with the daily care of his therapy dog, including feeding, walking, and grooming; Support the interaction between him and his therapy dog to maximise the therapeutic benefits; Ensure a safe and nurturing environment for both him and the therapy dog in the home; Engage him in his favourite activities like gaming, music, and outdoor events, adapting to his preferences and mood; Use your positive attitude and sense of humour to make the home life enjoyable and fulfilling; Encourage social interaction and community involvement to help him live his best life; Respond effectively to behavioural crises, using therapeutic techniques and de-escalation to ensure safety; Collaborate with Senior Carers and family to adjust care and behaviour management strategies as needed; Maintain open and clear communication with him, his family, and the support team, using appropriate communication methods (verbal and non-verbal); Keep accurate records of all activities, behavioural incidents, and his progress in his home environment

Requirements

Proven experience in supporting individuals with complex health and learning needs and understanding of therapeutic approaches; Knowledge of behaviour management techniques; Willingness to engage in activities like gaming, music, and activities to encourage participation and enjoyment; Ability to prepare and cook food safely; Experience of working in healthcare or education within the SEN arena; Willing to undertake training in managing challenging behaviour, safeguarding, and first aid; Experience of working within a team; Reliable, kind, and patient, with a good sense of humour and a positive attitude; Calm, adaptable, and able to handle challenging situations with confidence; Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently in the setting

Nice to have

Confident to work with dogs; Experience of being with dogs; A shared interest in gaming, music, or activities to connect with him on a personal level; Full driver’s license and access to a vehicle (if required for transportation)

Benefits

Very competitive salary based on experience; Ongoing professional development and training opportunities; Flexible working arrangements and a supportive environment; On call opportunities; The chance to make a meaningful impact on a young man’s life, helping him live independently in his own home; Blue light card; Pension scheme