Female Social Personal Assistant

Karen is 53-year-old woman who lives at home with the support of her family. She has a diagnosed severe learning disability and Autism. Karen is selectively mute however she will converse with trusted member of her family. She will communicate with other with written communicate and technology. Karen enjoys listening to music with her favourite genre being the 80's. Her favourite song is "Starship" and she cannot resist a bit of Duran Duran. Karen enjoys going out for a social drink if the occasion arises and loves to attend the Fresh Disco.

Karen enjoys the usual soaps on tv, she loves Casualty and enjoys a good laugh with Mrs. Browns Boys. She can get obsessional and focus on things in a repetitive manner. If Karen's support is cancelled or changed at short notice, this will cause Karen to become anxious and not want to go anywhere. Routine and consistency are essential to Karen.

As Karen's Personal Assistant you would be expected to accompany Karen to her chosen social activities which could include trips to the Metro Centre, Cinema visits, lunch dates and days out to the beach, she would also like to try some new places of interest. You must be able to access and transport her safely on public transport as Karen enjoys, bus trips, ferry trips and the metro to access the community.

You will be required to assist and encourage Karen with personal hygiene care including, prompting and assistance with showering, haircare and toileting hygiene. Karen will need support with dressing and choosing garments appropriately for the weather. She is currently working on Healthy Eating and exercising which you would be expected to encourage and assist with, meal preparation would be included in this role. Accompanying Karen to scheduled appointments will be required and you may be required to make booking/appointments on her behalf.

Experience working with adults with autism is essential and you must be able to demonstrate strategies to manage dysregulation.