Direct Payment Worker

Description

The job itself

(Please note this is an external vacancy and is not employment with East Riding of Yorkshire Council)

About the recipient

What do people like about me? What amazing things can I do?

People say I’m funny, imaginative, and full of character. I have a brilliant sense of humour and can make people laugh without even trying!

I’m very loving and affectionate with those I trust, and I have a big heart - I care deeply about my family, animals, and kind people. I’m bright and curious about how things work. When something grabs my attention, I can remember amazing details and explain things in my own creative way. I love coming up with ideas, games and stories - I notice things other people might miss!

What I like.

I love gaming - especially VR and Roblox - where I can build, explore and create. I also enjoy Lego and building things in real life too! I like being outdoors, especially going to The Deep when iti s quiet, or visiting calm and familiar places. I enjoy music, funny videos, and spending time with people who make me feel safe and relaxed. I like cosy things like my weighted blanket and soft blankets, and I love calm sensory lights

What I find tricky.

I find it hard when things change suddenly, when I am rushed, or when people use a cross or demanding tone. I do not like loud, busy places or being around too many people at once. I can become anxious if I feel I am being told what to do, or if I do not understand what is happening next. It really helps when people explain things calmly, give me choices, and let me go at my own pace.

What I enjoy doing

I enjoy creative play - building with Lego, gaming, or inventing my own stories. I also love sensory activities like bouncing, spinning, or relaxing under my weighted blanket. I like calm one-to-one time with adults who understand me, where I can talk about my interests or try things at my own pace. When I feel safe and calm, my sense of humour and kindness really shine through!

How people can help me.

I’m autistic and have a PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidant) profile. This means I can become anxious when I feel under pressure or when things are presented as demands. I respond best when things are offered as choices or made into games. I need calm, patient adults who help me feel safe and know when I need space or quiet time. Clear routines, gentle encouragement and lots of preparation help me feel confident. I am still learning how to manage big feelings and transitions, so co-regulation and staying calm with me really helps. I also need help to feel comfortable doing things in the community - visiting safe, familiar places like parks, shops or The Deep, with someone who understands my sensory needs. Most of all, I need people who will see my strengths first, be patient, and help me thrive in my own way.

About the role

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

Encouraging the recipient to engage in activities. Helping to improve their social skills. Settling and supporting the individual. Keeping them safe in the community. Helping to fulfil their potential and aspirations. Attending/transporting the individual to social activities and appointments. Encouraging social interaction and inclusion and providing emotional support.

About the candidate

The suitable candidate must:

Be conscientious and committed to providing support as necessary for the child. Be patient, caring and understanding. Be able to build a positive relationship with the child to both encourage and support them. Be flexible to meet the needs of the family. Have knowledge of working with or supporting a child with special needs.

DBS/Reference checks will be required for this post - Cost to be met by the local authority.