Mentor/companion for Autistic Adult

Job Title: Mentor/Companion for 19-year-old autistic male - Durbanville area.

Main Purpose of the job:
To be a “helping hand” to an individual with unique and specific challenges and support needs, giving him the necessary guidance and support to thrive. A special interest and passion to be a secure, long-term source of support to a neurodivergent individual is of the utmost importance.

Job Objectives:

- To collaborate with a team to support the young adult’s individual needs.
- Providing companionship and emotional support to the young adult at home.
- Support and scaffolding for his regulation needs (lessening uncertainty and anxiety for him).
- To plan and organise suitable fun activities and outings for the individual.
- Going for walks and doing outdoor activities together.
- Preparing meals and snacks tailored to the young adult’s needs.
- Teaching practical self-help, social and life skills.
- Occasional driving for certain appointments and outings.
- Assisting with implementing structure and routine for him, supporting his executive functioning around planning, problem-solving, reasoning etc.

**Benefits**:
Support and training from a multi-disciplinary team knowledgeable in the field of Neurodiversity.

General Requirements:
A valid driver’s license and reliable car - Essential.

Fluent in Afrikaans.

Being fun and relaxed with a non-demanding approach to create a comfortable environment for the young adult - Essential.

Education Requirements:
A relevant qualification or currently still studying in psychology, occupational therapy, or special needs education - Desirable.

Job Related work experience:
Previous experience in a facilitator role supporting neurodivergent children or adults Essential.

Job Related Knowledge:
Familiarity with a low arousal approach - Essential.

Knowledge of the unique support needs of a neurodiverse individual - Essential.

Knowledge of a neurodivergent person’s sensory challenges, e.g., pertaining to smell - Desirable.

Job Related Skills:
Ability to minimize stress and anxiety for the individual by utilizing a low arousal approach - Essential.

Strong verbal communication skills - Essential.

Organizational skills, i.e., ability to implement structure - Essential.

Social and life skills - Essential.

Relationship building skills - Essential.

Working hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10:00-14:00.

Please note we will only contact applicants that have been shortlisted, thank you for your time.

**Job Type**: Part-time

**Salary**: From R6,500.00 per month