Direct Payment Worker

Direct Payment Worker

Hours of work: 4 hours per week term time and 8 hours per week in the school holidays

About the recipient

What do they like?

They enjoy attending their weekly SEN football group, using their iPad at weekends, spending time at playgrounds, playing with friends, swimming, and engaging in sensory or messy play. They also like music, their dog, Lego, putty, kinetic sand, as well as physical comfort such as hugs and reassurance.

What do they dislike?

They find loud noises, bright lights and crowded environments difficult. They prefer not to be told “no” without an explanation or an alternative option. They may become unsettled if adult attention is redirected elsewhere They use noise‑cancelling headphones that play music for support. Too much spoken language can also be challenging as they struggle to process what is being said.

What activities do they enjoy?

They enjoy litter picking, drawing, colouring, craft activities, going to the playground, cooking and baking, football, singing, dancing, building with Lego and trampolining.

What support do they need?

They benefit from help when socialising in larger groups, staying safe in different environments and understanding boundaries. Consistent responses from adults are important. They may need support when exploring new spaces so these can be introduced calmly. They are still learning about how their brain works; at times they may not be able to do something they have previously shown they can do — this reflects an inability in the moment, not unwillingness.

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.