Autism Support Practitioner

Contract: Permanent, with the potential for Hybrid working.

Hours: Full time.

Salary: £37,000 (based on 40 hours per week)

Job Purpose:

• To contribute to Autism Initiatives autism specialist understanding and support to people with ASC.
• To contribute to the development and implementation of the strategic practice aims for Northern Ireland.
• Work closely with the Regional Practice lead to ensure a high level of person centred care and support across our services.
• Deliver training and Induction support across services in Northern Ireland, including core skills and safeguarding training as required.
• To respond to priorities as they arise, which may include providing support to teams and people we support.

As an employee of Autism Initiatives, the post holder will also be expected to:

• Work in the context of Autism Initiatives’ Vision, Mission and Philosophy and use our ‘Five Point Star’ approach to support people in achieving their goals.
• Work to develop their abilities in line with the Autism Initiatives Competency Framework.
• Recognise the strengths and abilities of the people who access our services and support our shared belief in lifelong learning.
• Adhere to the Autism Initiatives’ Code of Conduct, showing a high degree of professionalism, resilience, and a willingness to remain committed during particularly demanding times.
• Observe all legal and procedural requirements in relation to data management and confidentiality e.g. adherence to GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and internal data management policies.
• Adhere to all safeguarding requirements and any procedures aimed at the protection of adults at risk.

You will enjoy an enhanced range of benefits designed to reward the outstanding support that staff provide.  Some of these benefits start immediately, whilst others are awarded at later dates in recognition of loyalty, dedication and long service.

• Competitive salary.
• Employer pension scheme.
• Enhanced company sick pay.
• Enhanced maternity pay.
• Access NI paid.
• NISCC fee paid after two years service.
• Generous paid annual leave.
• Incremental increases to annual leave.
• Paid bank and public holidays.
• Birthday leave.
• Option to buy and sell annual leave.
• Long service awards.
• Monthly staff cash prize draw.
• Blue light discount card.
• Employee Refer a Friend initiative.
• Free Autism specific training.
• Comprehensive induction training.
• On the job learning.
• Buddy/mentor for new staff.
• Funded QCF development opportunities.
• Continuous learning & development opportunities.
• Line management support structure.
• Regular 121 meetings.
• Annual Performance review.
• Culture of recognition.
• 24/7 employee assistance programme (confidential counselling helpline) available from day one of employment. Offering free support from experts on a wide range of subjects from childcare and probate, to managing money and work life balance.
• Medicash health scheme, subject to eligibility.
• Menopause support line as part of Medicash scheme.
• Career break policy.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Compassionate & Bereavement leave.

Essential criteria:

• Minimum of 3 years continuous experience within a social care role.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience working with someone with support needs, preferably within an autism specific setting.
• Minimum of Level 3 Health and Social Care Diploma, or equivalent.
• Driving licence, with access to your own vehicle as some travel may be required with this post.
• A willingness to training and become a certified PROACT SCIPr UK ® Instructor.
• Knowledge of Autism Spectrum Conditions and ability to apply this knowledge in different situations.
• Flexible approach to working within a busy environment.
• Be an engaging communicator and reflective practitioner.
• Demonstrate accuracy and attention to detail at all times.
• Lead by example and demonstrate resilience and best practice, with an inclusive approach.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Able to use your own initiative but also be a key team player.
• Proficient IT skills in order to support good record keeping.
• Ability to train staff and cascade key messages.
• Be self-initiating and effective in diary and time management.

How to apply?

If you wish to be considered for this opportunity, please submit your application form, detailing
the skills and experience that you feel would make you successful in this post to recruitment@ai-ni.
co.uk.
The closing date for applications is Friday 20th June 2025 at 12 noon. We may decide to bring
the closing date forward if we have received a high volume of applications.

Autism Initiatives are an Equal Opportunities employer.  We are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in employment and service delivery. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified applicants, however, we particularity welcome male applicants and also those from a Protestant community background as these cohorts are currently under-represented.

Registered Charity No: XR72211, NIC 104641