Job Reference: LCSNOV03
A lovely young lady, age 14 from North Berwick, East Lothian is looking for a Personal Assistant (PA) to support her 2 or 3 mornings each week before going to school. The role will involve getting her up, bathed, dressed and ready for school with all medications and breakfast given, as well as some light household tasks to support the family.
This is a temporary role to begin with.
Start Date: ASAP
Days: 2 or 3 weekday mornings
Times: 6.30am to 8.30am or 6.30am to 8am if preferred.
Hourly rate: £20 per hour (plus holiday pay £2.41 per hour)
The role can be term time only or include school holidays with later starts.
This young lady has a complex disability, called Rett Syndrome and is mostly in a wheelchair, although she can stand and walk a few steps with support. She has epilepsy, however her seizures are well controlled with medication at the moment. Although she eats orally, she has a gastrostomy button to provide water and medication. She is non-verbal, but she does vocalise and she can convey her emotions through facial expressions. The family have a track and hoist/slings at home, although they tend not to use these yet as she is still able to stand and walk a few steps with support. However, someone who has experience of hoisting would be beneficial. She wears pads and requires all personal care attended to with 1:1 support at all times. She takes several medications daily, through her gastrostomy button. Gastrostomy training can be provided by parents and also the community nursing team for formal training.
She is under Occupational Therapy, Physio and Speech Therapy, as well as Neurology, Respiratory and a Dietician.
She can become upset sometimes, therefore needs a calm and consistent approach from a PA who is willing to get to know her needs. Generally she is happy and content, and can be very smiley and engaging. She loves to watch her favourite programmes on her iPad, likes to go for a walk in her buggy / wheelchair and also likes trips out to the shops and cafes. She likes fairground rides, trains, going on boats and swimming with support.
She is the second oldest of four children.
The family are looking for a PA who preferably has experience with children with additional support needs, although this is not necessary. Someone who is has a calm and caring nature, who is kind and understanding as well as physically able and fit. Someone who will be sensitive to this young lady’s needs and who is open and willing to learn then have the independence and ability to get on with tasks competently once trained. The PA must show a high level of initiative and ability to cope in a busy household. A non smoker.
A driver is not required but there will be access to the family car if needed.
As the family have two dogs – a Labrador and a smaller, Australian Labradoodle – the PA will need to be a dog-lover.
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