Home care Assistant

Job summary

Job Title: Personal Assistant / Support Worker
Employer: Fellside Homecare
Location: Arnside

Job Description

Fellside Homecare is looking for a compassionate, reliable, and inclusive carer with the relevant skills and understanding to support a client with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), who also identifies within the non-binary spectrum. The ideal candidate will be person-centred, respectful of the client’s individuality, and committed to promoting independence, dignity, and well-being.

About the Client

The client enjoys expressing their individuality through their clothing and expects their carer to actively support these choices. They are passionate about psychology and activism, particularly in areas concerning autism and LGBTQ+ rights, and volunteer as a young ambassador for the National Autistic Society. They are also involved in advocacy work with Cumbria County Council to improve autism services and awareness.

They live with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a condition that affects all areas of their daily life. Symptoms include fatigue, mobility impairment, limb paralysis on difficult days, and disturbed sleep. They are working to maintain independence but may require full assistance with meals, personal care, and daily tasks during low-energy periods. Managing their energy and avoiding a “boom and bust” cycle is crucial to their well-being.

The client’s emotional support cat plays a significant role in their life and is always within close proximity. The carer must be comfortable with animals and respectful of the bond between the client and their cat.

Key Responsibilities

• Respect and support the client’s choices in self-expression, including clothing and identity.

• Help manage energy levels by supporting a balanced and predictable routine.

• Maintain a calm, low-stimulation environment to minimise fatigue and overstimulation.

• Support the client with engagement in volunteer and advocacy work where possible.

• Build a trusting one-to-one relationship, maintaining appropriate boundaries and confidentiality.

• Respect the client’s gender identity and be open to inclusive and non-judgmental communication.

• Ensure the cat remains undisturbed and always within 3 meters of the client.

Essential Requirements

• Kind, empathetic, and inclusive approach to care.

• Understanding of or willingness to learn about FND, autism, and neurodivergence.

• Respect for non-binary and LGBTQ+ identities.

• Adaptability to changing needs depending on the client’s health and energy levels.

• Comfortable being around and respecting the presence of a support animal.

Desirable Attributes

• Previous experience working with individuals with FND, autism, or other complex health needs.

• Interest in psychology, activism, or social justice.

• Calm and grounding personality, with good listening and communication skills.

If you believe in empowering others and want to make a real difference, Fellside Homecare would love to hear from you.