Reports to: Service Manager and Clinical Psychologist
Role overview:
In this role, you will provide direct care and support to children with neurodevelopmental disabilities and behavioural needs. You'll combine practical assistance with opportunities to contribute to therapeutic interventions, working alongside our multidisciplinary clinical team, including psychologists, occupational therapists (OTs), speech and language therapists (SaLTs), and behavioural specialists. This hands-on experience will allow you to develop therapeutic skills while actively participating in the planning, delivery, and evaluation of psychologically-informed interventions.
Key Responsibilities:
Direct Care and Support:
Provide daily care and supervision of the young people, promoting a safe and nurturing environment.
Assist children with daily routines, including personal care, mealtime support, and engagement in activities.
Foster positive relationships with the children, encouraging social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Therapeutic Support:
Collaborate with the clinical team to assist in the implementation of therapeutic interventions.
Support children in therapeutic activities designed to improve emotional regulation, communication, and social skills.
Use trauma-informed approaches when interacting with children.
Implement behaviour support plans as directed by clinical staff, helping children manage their behavioural needs.
Engage in reflective practice and attend clinical supervision sessions to enhance therapeutic understanding.
Provide input into the child's care and therapeutic progress.
What We Offer:
Regular group sessions facilitated by a Clinical Psychologist, designed to enhance your therapeutic skills and promote reflective practice.
Access to workshops and training led by our in-house Therapies team, providing exposure to therapeutic models and psychological formulation. Learn how these approaches inform care planning and interventions.
Opportunities to work closely with experienced clinicians to develop and implement therapeutic interventions.
Be part of an inclusive team that focuses on the holistic development of each child, fostering a positive and collaborative work atmosphere.
Person Specification:
Essential:
An upper second-class honours degree or higher in psychology or a related field.
Previous experience working with children or young people in a care or support capacity.
A genuine interest in gaining therapeutic experience and contributing to a child's psychological and emotional well-being.
Compassionate, patient, and empathetic nature.
Ability to work flexibly, including shifts, evenings, and weekends.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to form positive relationships with children and colleagues.
Ability to remain calm under pressure and handle challenging situations effectively.
Desirable:
Prior experience working with children with learning disabilities, autism, or behavioural needs.
NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) or equivalent qualification.