Personal Assistant / Buddy / Companion CC652

I'm a keen football fan and support Chelsea FC but please don't hold that against me. I have a wife, 2 stepsons and young granddaughter, who I adore. I'm looking for a Personal Assistant to take me out for some social and leisure time, to be a companion (and hopefully a friend). My visits out will give my wife some well needed respite. There is a Sailability club which I love to attend on a Tuesday and Thursday so this is the main goal. I would also like to go to some football matches which are usually on the weekends so some flexibility to accommodate this would be ideal. My other interests include astronomy, fishing, the cinema and museums so if a PA is willing to help me explore these too, would be amazing. I can't get out on my own, I am wheelchair based. I have weakness on my left side affecting my left leg, left arm and both eyes due to a stroke. I'm recovering well and can still talk to communicate and mobilise, but will always need support on my left side to avoid falls which can happen quickly if unsupported, Hands on support is essential. I have a leg and shoulder support which my wife puts on for me. Having a sense of humour would also be a bonus. A PA that can drive and has their own car is essential to the role, mileage expenses will be paid and there is free parking at my address. Duties include: Moving and handling Other relevant duties as required Transportation Companionship Bathroom assistance Personal Care: Most important is to always support me on my weak left side to reduce/prevent falls, should I wish to walk. Transferring between wheelchair and car. Folding and lifting wheelchair in/out of car. Pushing me in my wheelchair. On occasion - assistance to put on a coat, gloves etc. Assisting with activity related requirements, e.g. putting on/off life jacket for sailing. Social: Accompany and assist when accessing social and leisure activities, such as: Sailing (during the season) Fishing (during the season) Football matches cinema visiting friends/family local visits shopping The above duties will involve driving in the PA's car, helping me in and out of the car and taking part in the activities where needed etc.

Respectful of the employer's privacy and confidentiality Reliable with good timekeeping Able to both follow instructions and work on own initiative Hygienic, tidy and well organised Fit and healthy to undertake the required duties Patient and possess excellent interpersonal skills Honest and cheerful Able to speak and read English to a reasonable standard Able to always work to high standards of health & safety Notes: All applicants must have the right to work in the UK and be willing to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check if required. Please note, if you are successful in your application for this position, you will be either engaged directly or employed by the individual employer and not by Independent Lives. The role may be offered on an employed or self-employed basis, depending on the suitability and agreement with the employer. If the role is employed, you will be entitled to holiday pay and issued an employment contract.

• Exemption for gender is claimed under the Equality Act 2010 Part 1 Schedule 9
  
  Hours per week: Minimum 12 hours per week. 6 on Tuesday and 6 on Thursday but other hours available including the occasional weekend day.
Hourly pay rate: £14 to £14.50 employed depending on applicant. Self-employed rate TBD.