Personal Assistant

Personal Assistant (Support Worker)

Job Purpose

Our Personal Assistants support people to lead full, active and socially connected lives, supporting people to achieve the things that matter to them.

Applicants should have, or be willing to work towards, a qualification meeting the standards required for registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC).

Job Details

Please note that a driving license is essential for this position.

We are looking for a part-time Personal Assistant to support a 57-year old gentleman in his own home. He stays in Newington, Edinburgh.

Experience working with individuals with neurological conditions is desirable but not essential.

About this opportunity

He says:

"Last year I moved from the south of England to be near family members here in Edinburgh. They have helped me find a place to live, adapted it to my needs, and supported me to date. I have a diagnosis of Epilepsy that is not fully controlled despite a lot of medication, but I am hoping this will not inhibit me from having the lifestyle to which I aspire.

My interests include reading, creative writing, crosswords, competitive Scrabble, and painting and drawing. I like good conversation on diverse topics and I listen to the radio a lot, especially to programmes on history, science and medicine. I am also a keen gardener, and I am interested in nature, particularly birds, flowers, butterflies and moths. I enjoy spending time with my family who are a big part of my life and live nearby.

I want to build on my day-to-day living skills within my new home, wherever possible and consistent with my safety. I need support with daily chores and my personal care but would like to be as independent as I can be. This will take patience and understanding from you.

As well as learning to cope on my own in the house and garden I would like to get out more and acquire new skills and interests. With your support I would also like to start doing other activities in and around Edinburgh, explore my local community and get involved in new pursuits, ventures and clubs. I would like to build up my confidence and develop relationships. I am hoping you will aid and encourage me in achieving all these goals. I do already have some plans but I am also open to suggestions as to what these new ventures could be. I want to embrace what life has to offer."

About you:

Do you believe you can be the supportive person to help me live independently?

I need an adaptable person to support me, as my needs can and will vary, especially as I build my skill set and self-assurance, extend my social circle and expand my list of activities.

You will require good communication and social skills to work effectively with family and other members of a small team dependant on the service. We are looking for someone with a warm and friendly personality, who can work professionally and use their own initiative.

Are you flexible and responsive? Do you have what it takes to support individuals to achieve and maintain a great life? Are you a unique person who wants to share their skills and gifts and make a difference to someone’s life? Can you help build friendships and find ways to contribute and connect to the local community?

If you would like an informal chat about this vacancy, please contact Melanie.Caplan@thistle.org.uk

Please click here for the full job description.

Job ref: PB221