Autism jobs

Job Description

Balance is looking for a dedicated compassionateSupport Worker/Driver to join our  Day Centre in Wandsworth.

Who you are

• You are someone who shares and is able to mobilise the charities values of Independence, Empowerment, Partnership, Professionalism, Staff Recognition and Sustainability. If you have knowledge, application and commitment to these values we want to hear from you.
• You must  have a Clean Current D1 Driving License.

Who we are

At Balance we are committed to empowering those we support to build independence, fulfilled and self-confident lives.  We work hard to ensure our charitable values are central to the professional experience of those who work for us, with us and who benefit from our services. 

Main Responsibilities of the Job

• To provide support and assistance during journeyspick up and drop of duties at the commencement and end of sessions at our day centres.
• To demonstrate Balance values of partnership, independence, professionalism, empowerment, staff recognition and sustainability in your conduct and approach to your work
• Through partnership, support and develop peoples skills, confidence and interests as part of a multi-disciplinary day service offer.
• To support your colleagues, service managers and other key professionals to put those using our service at the centre of your daily work. .
• To maintain and update client and related operational records with an accurate and professional commitment.
• To ensure compliance with and the delivery of the charity policies and procedures particularly those related to safeguarding, inclusion and disability discrimination.
• To support clients with there daily activities and to promote their independence 
• To be able to communicate effectively with families , colleauges and  clients.

Working Expectations

• The working day is  8.00am - 5.30pm Monday to Friday -  The current rate reflects the additional hours 
• Drive a passenger service vehicle.
• Attendance at training. 
• Use of information technology to support your work.

Benefits of Working for us

The charity ensures the following benefits for all its operational staff:

• A baseline commitment to pay London living wage for all its front line staff.
• A commitment to training and professional development to support internal progression as part of our performance support.
• Inclusion in and contribution to the charity's pension scheme.
• Generous annual leave allowance of 25 days a year plus an additional day off for your birthday.
• Access to a range of discount schemes.
• Access to the charity's employee assistance programme.
• Access to travel card loan and bike to work scheme.

Full Time – Term Time Only
Hours: 8.30am – 4.30pm
Start Date: September 2026

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of autistic young people? Are you patient, understanding, and committed to helping learners achieve their full potential? If so, we would love to hear from you.

Due to continued growth, The Rise Sixth Form is seeking enthusiastic and dedicated Teaching and Learning Assistants to join our expanding team.

We currently have three exciting opportunities available:

• TLA to support Science up to and including Level 3
• TLA to support Creative subjects (Art, Drama, Music, Animation or Media) up to and including Level 3
• TLA to provide general learning support across the sixth form provision

At The Rise Sixth Form, we aim to build aspirations, inspire confidence, and motivate learners so they can make informed choices about their futures and reach their full potential.

All learners follow a personalised timetable and an individual learning programme designed around their strengths, interests, ambitions, and support needs. Learners are encouraged to develop independence, celebrate their individuality, and achieve meaningful outcomes both academically and personally.

As a Teaching and Learning Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting learners academically, emotionally, and socially. This is a rewarding opportunity to positively impact the lives of extraordinary young people as they prepare for adulthood and further education.

Learners attend lessons at West Thames College and are also supported within the sixth form base. Staff work closely with learners to help them:

• prepare for lessons
• complete coursework and assignments
• develop revision and study skills
• improve time management and organisation
• build confidence in essay writing and exam preparation
• access appropriate exam arrangements and support strategies

We are looking for empathetic, adaptable, and resilient individuals who can remain calm under pressure and respond positively to challenges. Successful candidates will have a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and will be keen to work within our positive behavioural approach.

Experience of working with autistic young people or individuals with additional needs is desirable, although training and support will be provided for the right candidates.

Please note that appointed candidates will be based in Isleworth.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications, therefore early application is encouraged.

Closing Date:Monday 1st June 2026

Shortlisting Date: Thursday 4th June 2026

Interview date: Monday 8th June 2026

Start Date: September 2026

Join The Rise School and become part of a team that changes lives every day.

Only applications submitted online will be considered via the recruitment portal

 Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

We’re looking for an empathetic and skilled Facilitating Trainer to join our Lived Experience Training team, supporting autistic trainers and trainers with learning disabilities to co-deliver the Oliver McGowan Tier 2 Training across Hampshire.

This nationally recognised programme helps professionals in health and social care better understand and meet the needs of autistic people and people with learning disabilities. You’ll play a key role in ensuring that trainers with lived experience are supported, empowered, and able to deliver engaging, high-quality training sessions.

We actively welcome applicants from all backgrounds and identities, particularly those with lived experience of autism, learning disability, or neurodiversity, and from groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.

You will:

• Facilitate Oliver McGowan Tier 2 training sessions across Fareham, Portsmouth and Southampton
• Support co-trainers with lived experience of autism and learning disabilities to prepare for and deliver training sessions
• Provide practical support around travel, accessibility, preparation and wellbeing needs
• Encourage the development and confidence of co-trainers, supporting them to contribute to and lead sessions where possible
• Ensure that training venues, materials and delivery approaches are adjusted to meet trainers’ individual needs
• Work collaboratively with the wider Lived Experience Training team to manage session registers, feedback and administration
• Support trainers to debrief following sessions where needed, promoting wellbeing and continued participation
• Promote inclusion, respect and empowerment in every training interaction

We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Experience delivering face-to-face training, ideally within health, social care or a related setting
• Experience building rapport and working collaboratively with autistic people and people with learning disabilities
• Strong communication, facilitation and organisational skills, with a collaborative approach
• An understanding of the barriers faced by autistic people and people with learning disabilities, and a commitment to inclusion and empowerment
• Knowledge of current issues and best practice within autism, learning disability and health and social care sectors
• Confidence balancing the needs of co-trainers, learners and training delivery requirements
• The ability to work independently as part of a distance-managed team
• Competence using Microsoft Office, Teams and Zoom
• A full driving licence or the ability to travel regularly across Hampshire

Essential requirements:

• Oliver McGowan Tier 2 Facilitator qualification
• Good standard of education, including GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent)

Desirable:

• Oliver McGowan Tier 1 Facilitator qualification
• A relevant training or teaching qualification

We’re a flexible, supportive employer. We’re happy to discuss any access needs, working pattern requests or adjustments that would help you thrive in this role.

Why join us?

Impact Initiatives is a Brighton-based charity with a strong reputation for supporting people of all ages and abilities across Sussex and beyond. Our Lived Experience Training project empowers autistic trainers and trainers with learning disabilities to influence change and build professional confidence.

You’ll join a welcoming, values-led team dedicated to inclusion, development, and the power of lived experience to make a difference.

Closing date: Open until vacancy is filled – early application is advised
Interviews: Late May – Early June 2026

The successful applicant will be subject to a Basic DBS check. Having a criminal record will not necessarily bar someone from working with us and any disclosures will be considered in relation to the duties of the role.For further details and to apply, please visit our jobs page on our website

Registered Manager (CQC) – Learning Disabilities & Autism

Permanent

£44,000 per annum

East London

An ambitious, values-driven social care organisation is seeking an experienced CQC-registered manager to lead a portfolio of supported living services for adults with learning disabilities and autism in East London.

You will become part of a team that truly champions person-centred, empowering support, fuelling people’s independence and purpose. Step into a leadership role where your proactive spirit and resilience will drive meaningful change, sharpening service quality, culture, and outcomes at a pivotal time

The Role

As Registered Manager, you’ll passionately guide supported living services that support adults with learning disabilities, autism, and complex needs. With varying levels of independence, you will champion creative and adaptive support for every individual.

Holding responsibility as the CQC Registered Manager, you will provide leadership across compliance, safeguarding, operational delivery, and team development, while ensuring customers remain at the centre of all support planning and decision-making.

The role blends strategic and operational leadership, including:

· Leading and developing staff teams across multiple supported living services

· Driving service quality improvements and embedding positive service cultures

· Supporting services through compliance and inspection readiness activity

· Embedding Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and Active Support approaches

· Managing safeguarding concerns, HR processes, and service performance

· Promoting meaningful community engagement and improved quality of life outcomes for customers

About You

Applications are welcome from experienced Registered Managers or strong Deputy Managers ready to step into a more senior leadership role, provided they have substantial experience in CQC-regulated learning disability and autism services.

Candidates should bring:

· Strong knowledge of CQC standards and regulatory compliance

· Experience within supported living services for adults with learning disabilities and/or autism

· Experience supporting individuals with complex needs and behaviours of concern

· A person-centred, empowering approach to support delivery

· Experience leading teams through service improvement or culture change

· The confidence to manage performance, capability, and operational challenges effectively

· Experience of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), Active Support, or similar approaches

A Level 5 qualification in Leadership & Management (or equivalent) is highly desirable.

Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis, and the role may close early.

Specialist Teaching Assistant (STA) – Autism / SEND

Ambitious About Autism is recruiting for a Specialist Teaching Assistant (STA) to support autistic young people aged 16–25 at Ambitious College, our specialist further education college.

• Full time, permanent (term time only)
• Hours: 9am - 4.30pm
• Salary: £25,837 - £27,165 per annum
• Location: Tottenham, North London (N15 4FY)
• Start date: September 2026 (earlier start dates available)

Please note, this role may not meet Skilled Worker visa sponsorship criteria

You will work 1:1 with autistic learners, supporting them to access learning, build independence, confidence, and life skills — both on campus and in the community. This role involves personal care.

This role is ideal for candidates with experience or interest in:

• SEN / SEND
• Autism
• Learning Support Assistant or Teaching Assistant roles
• Care, youth work, education, or psychology backgrounds

What we offer:

• Term time only working (paid across 52 weeks)
• Extensive autism specific training and CPD
• Support from leading autism specialists
• Free daily breakfast
• Employee benefits including EAP, cycle-to-work, and season ticket loans
• Full benefits package on our website

(Due to a high number of applications, we reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the advertised end date).

Ambitious About Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious About Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search may be carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The safeguarding responsibilities of the post are as per the job description and person specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities, certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

St John's College is an award-winning, Ofsted-rated Good autism-specific college for autistic young people aged 16–25. We are now seeking an experienced and strategic Deputy Head of College to join our College Leadership Team (CLT).

About the Role

As Deputy Head of College, you will play a key role in the strategic and operational leadership of the College. Working closely with the Head of College, you will drive the quality of education, ensuring that all learners receive a high-quality, ambitious and personalised curriculum that prepares them for adulthood.

You will lead on the continuous improvement of teaching, learning and assessment, ensuring strong outcomes for learners, and will contribute to the development and delivery of the College's strategic vision. This is a highly influential role, supporting the alignment of education, health and care provision while ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the strategic leadership and continuous improvement of the College, contributing to long-term planning and vision
• Lead on the quality of education, ensuring a well-sequenced, ambitious curriculum aligned to learner needs and EHCP outcomes
• Drive high standards in teaching, learning and assessment through effective leadership and performance management
• Oversee curriculum planning, timetabling and delivery, ensuring consistency across provision, including off-site learning
• Lead on external accreditation and RARPA, ensuring robust assessment, tracking and reporting of learner progress
• Monitor learner outcomes and use data to inform decision-making, interventions and improvement planning
• Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders including families, local authorities and partner organisations
• Support safeguarding across the College, contributing to DSL responsibilities and a strong culture of safety and wellbeing
• Ensure effective operational management, including staffing structures, resource allocation and day-to-day systems
• Deputise for the Head of College as required

About You

We are looking for a confident and values-driven leader who is passionate about improving outcomes for autistic young people.

You will bring:

• Qualified Teacher Status and a relevant degree (or equivalent)
• Experience of leading teaching, learning and curriculum development within a SEND or specialist setting
• Strong understanding of autism, SEND legislation, EHCPs and the SEND Code of Practice
• Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop teams to deliver high performance
• Excellent communication, organisational and decision-making skills
• A commitment to inclusive practice, equality and learner-centred approaches

You will be resilient, collaborative and driven to deliver continuous improvement, with the ability to balance strategic thinking and operational delivery.

Why Join St John's College?

• Be part of a values-driven, autism-specialist organisation with a strong reputation for quality and innovation
• Join a committed and supportive leadership team with a shared ambition for learner success
• Play a key role in shaping the future of education for autistic young people
• Access high-quality training and professional development opportunities

If you are an experienced leader with a passion for inclusive education and a commitment to excellence, we would love to hear from you. Only applications submitted online will be considered via the recruitment portal.

Informal visit to setting/main college site - Ongoing through May 2026

Candidates informed of application outcome - Monday 18 May 2026

 Interviews - Friday 22 May 2026

Start Date- September 2026

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

We are looking for an experienced youth worker to join our team and lead our Short Breaks project, which provides activities and support specifically for children and young people who have autism and have low to moderate support needs. Camp Mohawk is a woodland activity centre that provides support to children, young people and families from across the South of England.

The children and young people (approximately 100 individuals) supported by the project are aged 8 to approximately 25 years and are largely independent in terms of their self care but have a variety of social, sensory and sometimes medical needs that mean it is very difficult for them to participate in mainstream activities. Our Short Breaks service offers after school activities (in 3 age groups) on Tuesdays and Thursdays in term time, as well as full days of activities once per week in school holidays. These activities give the young people essential social opportunities during which they are supported with things they find challenging, encouraged to express their natural personalities and explore and develop their interests. During these sessions they can receive support to develop their social skills if that is what they need, and can take part in fun activities with their peers. The groups generally cater for between 10 and 20 young people per session.

To be a good fit for this role, you will need to be an exceptional and dedicated childcare / youth worker who has proven experience of supporting and safeguarding children and young people, particularly those who have autism. You should have experience of planning inclusive activities, managing budgets and supervising teams of staff. The role is very much a ‘hands on’ role working directly with the project beneficiaries for the majority of the post hours - you must be able to commit to working the majority of Tuesday (16.00 - 19.30) and Thursday (18.30 - 22.00) evenings in term time, and at least one full day (09.00 - 17.30) per week during school holidays, with the exception of the Christmas holidays when the centre is closed. You will work 10 hours per month on project associated admin which can be undertaken remotely and largely at times that suit you. You must have a full UK driving license and access to a reliable vehicle that is insured for business use. Camp Mohawk is not easily accessible by public transport, whilst some Short Breaks activities take place at off site locations in Reading, Wokingham, Maidenhead, Bracknell, Slough and surrounding areas.

The current post holder also works in the role of Duty Manager for other school holiday days / term time weekend days. This aspect of the role, which will be an optional add on to the Short Breaks Coordinator role with negotiable hours, would be undertaken on a rotational basis with our 4 other Duty Managers. The role involves overseeing the daily delivery of general Family Sessions which support families who have children of all ages and who have a wide range of special needs and disabilities. In this role you will guide and supervise a team of support staff and volunteers through set up of the facilities at the start of the day, oversee the smooth and effective delivery of the service and support families during their visits, work effectively within our Safeguarding Lead Team, and supervise the cleaning and close down of facilities once the session has completed.

For full job description and person specification please see the attached application pack. Informal enquiries prior to application to discuss the role requirements, and applicant requirements in terms of hours and salary, are welcomed.

The successful applicant will be required to undergo all checks and training in accordance with our Safe Recruitment policy including enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and Right to Work check.

Be the person who makes the system work for children and young adults

Circles Network is looking for a skilled, compassionate Keyworker to join the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Keyworker Collaborative, supporting children and young adults up to 25 with learning disabilities, autism, or both, who have complex needs and are at risk of admission to specialist hospitals or out‑of‑area placements.

This role exists because the system does not always work as it should. Your job will be to make it work better, by standing alongside young people and their families, coordinating support, challenging poor practice, and ensuring the right help is in place at the right time.

If you are passionate about rights, inclusion, trauma‑informed practice, and persistent advocacy, this role will give you real scope to make a difference.

What the role involves

As a Keyworker, you will:

• Work directly with children and young adults, and with those who support them, to reduce risk and improve outcomes
• Act as a consistent, trusted point of contact for families navigating education, health, and care systems
• Coordinate and challenge multi‑agency support, holding services to account when needed
• Contribute to Care, Education and Treatment Reviews and Dynamic Support Register processes
• Use creative, accessible communication to ensure children and young adults are truly heard
• Champion person‑centred, trauma‑informed approaches across the system
• Maintain clear, accurate records and share learning locally, regionally, and nationally

This is a role for someone who is organised, resilient, values‑driven, and comfortable working in complexity.

About you

You will have:

• Experience supporting children or young adults with learning disabilities, autism, or related needs
• A strong understanding of the education, health, and care system, or the confidence to navigate it quickly
• Excellent communication skills, including adapting your approach to different needs and situations
• The confidence to escalate concerns and advocate firmly but respectfully
• A commitment to equality, inclusion, and safeguarding
• The ability to manage your own workload while remaining responsive to families

Lived experience, professional qualifications, or knowledge of CETRs and the Dynamic Support Register are welcome, but what matters most is your values, curiosity, and commitment to doing the right thing.

A new service — with the right support behind you

We are opening a new children’s residential home and supported living service — and we’re looking for a Registered Manager to lead it.

This is not a turnaround. It’s a planned, supported launch, with direct involvement from senior leadership and a clear development roadmap.

If you’re an experienced Registered Manager — or a strong Deputy ready to step up — this is an opportunity to shape a service properly from day one, with the backing to do it well.

What makes this role different

• New service with clear structure and leadership support
• Hands-on Director involvement — you won’t be left to manage alone
• Focus on quality and stability, not rushed occupancy
• Real opportunity to grow into Responsible Individual / Operations Manager

About Us

Striving For Independence Care Solutions (SFI) is a values-driven provider of care homes, supported living, and domiciliary care services across Brent, Harrow, and the surrounding areas. We are now expanding into children's residential and supported living provision for children and young people with learning disabilities, autism, and complex needs.

Our focus is simple: to deliver high-quality, person-centred care that empowers children and young people to live safe, fulfilling, and meaningful lives. We specialise in supporting individuals transitioning from family homes, hospital settings, assessment and treatment units, and other specialist placements — creating stable, nurturing community environments.

The Opportunity

As Registered Manager, you will:

• Establish and shape a brand new children's home and supported living service

• Lead and develop a high-performing, child-centred team

• Drive quality, compliance, and outcomes for children with complex needs

• Prepare for and lead Ofsted inspections, with the aim of achieving and maintaining Good or Outstanding ratings

• Work closely with senior leadership, with real influence over service development and growth

This is a key leadership appointment with progression potential to Responsible Individual or Operations Manager as the service grows.

What You'll Do

Lead with vision and integrity

• Create a safe, nurturing, and therapeutic home culture

• Be a strong advocate for children and young people

• Empower your team to deliver child-centred, outcome-focused care

• Embed therapeutic approaches such as Positive Behaviour Support and trauma-informed care

Own Ofsted compliance and readiness

• Register with and act as the Ofsted Registered Manager

• Ensure full compliance with the Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards

• Lead and prepare for Ofsted inspections

• Drive continuous improvement to achieve and maintain Good or Outstanding ratings

Champion safeguarding and care excellence

• Lead safeguarding practice and promote a strong safeguarding culture

• Oversee care planning, risk management, and reviews

• Ensure safe medication practices and accurate record keeping

Build, develop, and retain your team

• Recruit, lead, and develop a high-performing staff team

• Conduct supervisions, appraisals, and performance management

• Support staff development including Level 3 and Level 5 pathways

• Build a positive, inclusive, and accountable team culture

Operate the service effectively

• Manage rotas, ensure safe staffing levels, and oversee budgets

• Monitor KPIs, service quality, and outcomes

• Build strong relationships with Local Authorities, Commissioners, families, and professionals

• Participate in the on-call rota (shared across the leadership team)

What You'll Bring

Essential

• Experience as a Registered Manager or Deputy Manager in a children's residential setting

• Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or working towards)

• Strong, current knowledge of Ofsted regulations and Children's Homes legislation

• Proven leadership and team management experience

• Strong safeguarding knowledge and instinct

• Full UK driving licence

Desirable

• Experience supporting children with learning disabilities, autism, and complex needs

• Track record of achieving or maintaining Good/Outstanding Ofsted ratings

• Knowledge of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and trauma-informed practice

• Experience of opening or developing a new service

What We Offer

• £45,000 + increase to £55,000 following first placement (supported occupancy plan)

•     Clear progression path to Responsible Individual or Operations Manager roles

• 28 days annual leave (including bank holidays)

• Ongoing training and funded qualifications

• Supportive senior leadership team and direct access to the Director

• Referral bonus scheme

• The genuine opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up

Our Values

We are looking for someone who shares our commitment to:

• Quality and continuous improvement

• Compassion and child-centred care

• Dignity and respect

• Trust, teamwork, and accountability

Safeguarding

SFI is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All roles are subject to enhanced DBS checks and safer recruitment processes.

Ready to apply?

Click "Apply Now" to submit your application. Please include a CV with full employment history and a cover letter explaining your interest in this role and what you would bring to a brand new service.

We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis — early applications are encouraged. Interviews will be held during the week commencing 18 May 2026.

Join us in shaping high-quality children's services and making a lasting difference.

Role/Job Title: Head of Kent Services
Location: Pembury, with travel between services as required 
Contracted Hours Full time -37 hours per week (Mon-Fri)
Salary: £55,000 - £65,000 per annum FTE

Application Deadline Date:  Friday 24th May 2026 / Interviews to take place at Cornford Lane site (Pembury) on Wednesday 10th June
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

FULL JOB DESCRIPTION

Equal Opportunity/Accessibility and Accommodations Statement:
As a Disability Confident employer, Aspens Charities is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities. We actively promote the recruitment, retention, and career development of people with disabilities, recognising the invaluable contributions they make to our organisation. We are dedicated to ensuring an accessible recruitment process for all candidates. If you require any accommodations during the application or interview process, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Aspens’ mission is to provide high-quality care and support to individuals on the autism spectrum and with learning disabilities; meeting their needs and aspirations and empowering them to learn and grow through an integrated network of services across the South-East.

We provide support and care to children, families and adults across Kent, East Sussex, West Sussex, Brighton and Hove, Surrey and the London Borough of Bexley. Our services include registered care homes; supported living; community outreach; day services, including pathways to employment; children and young people’s groups and support; specialist support; and free online support for families and carers across the South-East.
 

About the role:
This is a tremendously exciting time to join Aspens. With our new Chief Operating Officer in place, we are actively shaping how we work to ensure we deliver the very best for the people we support. Her focus and ambition are centred on establishing consistent, high-quality practice across the organisation and ensuring that everything we do enhances, in a meaningful and measurable way, the lives of those we support.
 

The Head of Kent Services is a leadership role responsible for the strategic, operational, and financial oversight of services within Kent, currently residential services for adults with autism and/or learning disabilities, supported living services, and services for children and families across Kent.

The postholder will ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality, person-centred care and support that promotes autonomy, dignity, inclusion, and positive outcomes for individuals and families. The Head of Kent Services will lead and develop a small team of locality managers ensuring regulatory compliance, financial sustainability, and continuous service improvement across the portfolio.

The Head of Kent Services will be a member of the Inclusive Executive Leadership Team, working in collaboration with other leaders to drive the best outcomes for the People we Support and the Charity.

 

Knowledge and Experience:

We’re looking for someone who brings a combination of the following experiences, whether gained through formal roles, lived experience, volunteering or other pathways.  We value diverse routes into leadership and welcome applications from individuals who may not have followed traditional career paths.

Essential Experience:

• Significant senior management experience in health and social care.
• Proven leadership experience managing CQC Registered Managers.
• Strong knowledge of autism and learning disability support models.
• Experience managing budgets and financial performance.
• Demonstrable experience of regulatory compliance and inspection processes.
• Experience working with commissioners and local authorities.
• Experience managing large-scale change programmes.
• Significant experience in building team capability and managing complex employee relations.
   

Essential Skills & Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and operational delivery capability.
• Strong financial acumen.

• Experience overseeing impactful, outcomes-driven services at a strategic level.

• Strong project and programme management skills.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent analytical and data interpretation skills.
• High-level communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage complexity and drive change.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability.
• Ability to build and sustain relationships, with trust and integrity
  
  
   

Desirable:

• Relevant professional qualification in health or social care (Level 5 or above).
• Experience overseeing multiple residential and/or supported living services.
• Experience in service mobilisation or turnaround.
• Experience with Positive Behaviour Support at strategic level.
   

Core Values & Leadership Expectations:

• Commitment to person-centred, rights-based and autonomy approaches.
• Passion for inclusion, dignity, and empowerment.
• Dedication to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
• Evidence-informed decision-making.
• High levels of integrity, resilience, and accountability.

• Reflective, open to feedback and committed to continuous learning
• Brings authenticity, empathy and a collaborative spirit
  
   

What we can offer you:

• An exciting and rewarding role that you can really make your own
• An opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive environment, with formal and informal training and development initiatives.
• Member of the Inclusive Executive Leadership Team.
• Hybrid working
• Adjusted Hours or compressed working weeks
• Fantastic paid training and career progression opportunities (including recognised qualifications in health and social care)
• Paid DBS 
• Annual Leave / Pro rata dependent on hours. Annual leave entitlement increases with length of service
• Nest Pension and Death in Service Benefit
• Dedicated Employee Assistance Programme and Access to Mental Health First Aiders
• Aspens High Street Stores -20% discount on all items for Aspens’ staff
• Bluebell cafe- Discounted staff menu available
• Refer a Friend scheme, so you can earn up to £250 for every person you refer to work for Aspens
• Recognition schemes, including ‘Employee of the Month’
• Wellbeing initiatives such as: no email/meeting Fridays, no meetings over lunchtime to ensure people can take a break, encouraged not to read or reply to emails outside of working hours, and access to counselling

If shortlisted, we will contact you directly to schedule an interview. We strive to respond to all applicants; however, if you have not received a response within a reasonable timeframe, please feel free to contact us for a status update or feedback (where available). After the interview, you will be notified of the outcome. If successful, you’ll receive a formal offer in writing. Upon acceptance, we’ll guide you through the onboarding process, providing you with all the details you need.

Please note, any offer of employment will be subject to Disclosure and Barring checks (which we will arrange on your behalf if you don’t already have one) and satisfactory employment references.

• Location: Bath & Keynsham (BA2 & BS31)
• Salary: £38,750                                       
• Hours per week: Full time (37.5 hours) and participation in an on-call rota
• Training Provided: Opportunity to complete NVQ/QCF Diploma Level 5

Requirements 

• Leadership & Management Qualification: You hold, are working towards, or are prepared to complete a recognised Leadership and Management qualification.
• Experience: You have experience managing teams and have experience working with adults with learning disabilities and autism.
• Communication: You are adept at using a variety of communication aids and developing robust support plans.
• Compliance: Experience working with several compliance IT platforms is desirable.
• Driving: You must be a driver with access to your own vehicle

Are you an experienced manager ready to make a real difference? We are seeking a skilled and confident leader to join our two supported living locations in Keynsham and Bath, supporting adults with learning disabilities to live their lives their way. Our services are CQC regulated and focused on person-centred approaches.

About the Role

As Supported Living Manager, you will play a crucial role in ensuring we continue our goal of making a difference every day. You will work closely with an Operations Manager, external practitioners, and the local authority to meet compliance requirements and deliver consistent, high-quality support.

You will be responsible for:

• Inspiring and leading your teams to deliver consistent, person-centred support and supporting staff to gain confidence in their roles.
• Ensuring robust support plans are in place and using a variety of communication aids to support adults who may not communicate using words.
• Supporting staff training and development by ensuring all staff are supported to complete and embed training effectively.
• Maintaining compliance by ensuring rotas are compliant, routines and structures are maintained to promote independence, and by managing compliance with CQC and other regulatory requirements.
• Working flexibly, including participation in the out-of-hours on-call rota, which may involve travelling to locations within your division.

Why Join Us?

What we do matters. The adults we support have so much potential and, with the right support, can achieve great things. We are looking for a manager who can inspire, lead, achieve, and make a real difference to the people we support and their teams. If you are passionate about person-centered care and ready to take the next step in your management career, we would love to hear from you!

What Benefits Will I Have?

We offer a range of benefits that you can mix and match to suit your needs, including:

• Stream: Access your pay as you earn it, plus coaching, vouchers, discounts, cashback, and more.
• Blue Light Card: We reimburse your membership for discounts in shops and restaurants.
• Simply Health: Fully funded health cash plans with 24-hour GP access, money back on prescriptions, dental, opticians, and more.
• Buy and Sell Annual Leave: Transfer windows open twice a year.
• Pension and Life Assurance: Enrolment in our Scottish Widows pension and Life Assurance schemes.

Ready to Lead and Inspire?

If you’re looking for a role where you can truly make an impact, inspire your team, and help individuals realise their potential, we’d love to hear from you. Join us and become a driving force in empowering people to live fulfilling, independent lives on their own terms.

Apply today and start making a difference!

If you are offered a role with us, you will need to complete an enhanced DBS check. We will submit your application and pay for your check.

Please note that we are actively shortlisting candidates throughout the duration of the advert, interviews will be held as soon as possible and we will make an offer immediately if we find the right candidate.

Barnet Mencap is a charity based in Finchley supporting people with learning disabilities and autistic people across Barnet. Through our Bright Futures Employment Programme, we support individuals into meaningful employment, training, and long-term independence.

We are looking for a motivated and outcome-focused Employment Officer to join our team.

This role is centred on supporting individuals into sustained employment, managing a caseload of learners, and working directly with employers to create real opportunities.

The Role

You will:

• Manage a caseload of learners and support them into work
• Deliver 1:1 employability support and job club sessions
• Support CV writing, applications, and interview preparation
• Build relationships with employers and identify opportunities
• Support individuals in the workplace where needed
• Track outcomes and maintain accurate records

This is a results-driven role, focused on real job outcomes, not just engagement.

 The Candidate

You will have:

• Experience working with people with learning disabilities and/or autistic people
• Understanding of barriers to employment
• Strong communication and organisational skills
• Ability to motivate and support individuals
• Experience delivering structured support (desirable: employment programmes)

 What We Offer

• 30 days annual leave (pro rata, including Bank Holidays)
• TOIL system and flexible working approach
• Supportive team environment
• Opportunity to be part of a high-impact employment programme

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining how you meet the criteria on the person specification.

The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service application in line with Section 115 of The Police Act 1997.  

Closing Date: Friday 15th May 2026

Interview Date: We will review applications as they come in and offer interviews to those who meet the criteria. 

Support Worker at Plus Services

Are you a positive, engaging and caring person that wants to make a real difference to the world?

Do you think the greatest gift you can give is to make other people’s lives better?

Do you believe that people living with Learning Disabilities and Autism should have happy fulfilling lives, with access to the Community and enjoy the same things the rest of us take for granted?

If you answered “Yes” to these 3 Questions then Plus has an amazing role for you!!!!!

Who are Plus Services?

Plus is one of the most respected Learning Disability and Autism Charities in London with a proud history stretching back more than 30 years.  We have an amazing team that is dedicated to supporting people to live their best possible lives and we have literally changed people’s worlds with the support we have provided.

Our Client Group is quite varied and during the recruitment process you would be specifically recruited to work with those that your personality, skills and experience would fit best with.  Some have really challenging behaviour, but unless you had the capability to best serve those people you would be assigned to a different group.  So, there is no need to worry about being out of your depth.

We also provide industry leading training and on-going support, so rest assured you will be ready for anything the job throws at you.  I cannot promise you it will be easy, but I can promise you it will be worth it.  And when you go home you will know you have made a massive difference and the world is a slightly better place as a result of your efforts.

Who are you?

You are a caring, compassionate and capable individual?  You could be either already working within Social Care or are thinking about joining the sector.  We recognise everyone, regardless of their personal history, talents, abilities and unique personal qualities

What does matter is you must care and you must want to enhance the lives of the people who we support and rely on us.

You will need to be comfortable spending large amounts of your day one-to-one with the Service Users, there is no leaping from client to client here with 15 minute blocks.  You will need to be happy supporting people to learn new skills and become independent.  And you will need to thrive on taking people out into the big wide world, expanding their horizons, bringing a smile to their faces and adding a spring in to their step.

To be considered for the role you will need to be able to:

• Do your share of weekend shifts, sleep-ins, waking nights and bank holidays.
• Be physically fit and able to move freely and physically and to support service users who may be physically dependent.
• Have a supportive attitude and want to help individuals to maximise their lives.
• You must be able to support people with Learning Disabilities who have different ways of expressing themselves
• Be eligible to work in the UK

In return we offer opportunities for professional development and real job satisfaction.  We can help you to develop your professional skills and knowledge and progress toward recognised qualifications such as Diploma in Adult & Social Care levels 3/4/5.

We are reviewing applications on a regular basis as part of our ongoing recruitment process and we are committed to ensuring all candidates are treated fairly

Available positions:

Full time Support Worker (38 Hrs per week)
Locations: Lewisham, Southwark, Greenwich or Sutton

Pay: £29,245
Holidays: 28 days per Annum 

Part time Support Worker 
Locations: Lewisham, Southwark, Greenwich or Sutton

Pay: £29,245 pro-rata
Holidays: 28 days per Annum (Pro Rata)

Bank Support Worker (zero hours contact)

Location: Lewisham, Southwark, Greenwich or Sutton

Salary:  £14.80 per hour.

Holidays: Based on hours accrued

Our benefits package includes:
• Pension contribution scheme
• Fully funded Learning and Development
• Company employee assistance programme service

• Sleep in allowance

Who are Plus Services?

Plus is one of the most respected Learning Disability and Autism Charities in London with a proud history stretching back more than 30 years.  We have an amazing team that is dedicated to supporting people to live their best possible lives and we have literally changed people’s worlds with the support we have provided.

Our Client Group is quite varied and during the recruitment process you would be specifically recruited to work with those that your personality, skills and experience would fit best with.  Some have really challenging behaviour, but unless you had the capability to best serve those people you would be assigned to a different group.  So, there is no need to worry about being out of your depth.

We also provide industry leading training and on-going support, so rest assured you will be ready for anything the job throws at you.  I cannot promise you it will be easy, but I can promise you it will be worth it.  And when you go home you will know you have made a massive difference and the world is a slightly better place as a result of your efforts.

Who are you?

You are a caring, compassionate and capable individual?  You could be either already working within Social Care or are thinking about joining the sector.  We recognise everyone, regardless of their personal history, talents, abilities and unique personal qualities

What does matter is you must care and you must want to enhance the lives of the people who we support and rely on us.

You will need to be comfortable spending large amounts of your day one-to-one with the Service Users, there is no leaping from client to client here with 15 minute blocks.  You will need to be happy supporting people to learn new skills and become independent.  And you will need to thrive on taking people out into the big wide world, expanding their horizons, bringing a smile to their faces and adding a spring in to their step.

To be considered for the role you will need to be able to:

• Do your share of weekend shifts, sleep-ins, waking nights and bank holidays.
• Be physically fit and able to move freely and physically and to support service users who may be physically dependent.
• Have a supportive attitude and want to help individuals to maximise their lives.
• You must be able to support people with Learning Disabilities who have different ways of expressing themselves
• Be eligible to work in the UK

In return we offer opportunities for professional development and real job satisfaction.  We can help you to develop your professional skills and knowledge and progress toward recognised qualifications such as Diploma in Adult & Social Care levels 3/4/5.

We are reviewing applications on a regular basis as part of our ongoing recruitment process and we are committed to ensuring all candidates are treated fairly

Available positions:

Full time Support Worker (38 Hrs per week)
Locations: Lewisham, Southwark, Greenwich or Sutton

Pay: £29,245
Holidays: 28 days per Annum 

Part time Support Worker 
Locations: Lewisham, Southwark, Greenwich or Sutton

Pay: £29,245 pro-rata
Holidays: 28 days per Annum (Pro Rata)

Bank Support Worker (zero hours contact)

Location: Lewisham, Southwark, Greenwich or Sutton

Salary:  £14.80 per hour.

Holidays: Based on hours accrued

Our benefits package includes:
• Pension contribution scheme
• Fully funded Learning and Development
• Company employee assistance programme service

• Sleep in allowance