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Youth Mentor & Support Companion Full-Time Ongoing Role Supporting a 14-Year-Old South Dublin Area About the Role We are seeking a reliable, calm, and emotionally intelligent adult to work as a mentor and support companion for our 14-year-old son. He has diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 1) and ADHD, and benefits enormously from consistent, patient adult support outside of the immediate family. This is not a clinical or therapeutic role. We are looking for someone who can build a genuine, trusting relationship while providing practical day-to-day support – helping him get to school, accompanying him to activities, and being a steady, positive presence in his life. The right person will understand that he is a bright, engaging young man with a great sense of humour, a passion for horses, and real potential. He responds best to adults who are relaxed, non-confrontational, and willing to meet him where he is. This is a full, ongoing role and is not suited for someone looking for a short-term contract. Key Details Location South Dublin (Ballsbridge area) and surrounding areas Hours 10-15 hours per week (flexible, to be agreed) Schedule Primarily mornings (school run) and some afternoons/evenings (activities). Flexibility required. Rate Very competitive hourly rate, dependent on experience, plus mileage Start Date As soon as possible / To be agreed Contract Full, ongoing role (not suited for short-term) Requirements Full driving licence, valid work permit (if applicable), own vehicle, living in Dublin, Garda vetting, references What the Role Involves Daily/Practical Support • Collecting from home and transporting to school in the mornings • Collecting from school and bringing home or to activities • Supporting morning routines (ensuring he has eaten, taken medication, is ready for school) • Accompanying to horse riding lessons or other activities Mentoring & Relationship Building • Building a consistent, trusting relationship over time • Being a calm, reliable presence – someone he can talk to and rely on • Modelling positive communication and problem-solving • Gently encouraging independence and self-management without being directive or confrontational Communication with Family • Brief daily check-ins with the family regarding how things went • Flagging any concerns or observations in a timely, professional manner About the Young Person He is a 14-year-old in 2nd year of secondary school with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 1, requiring support) and ADHD Combined Type. He is intelligent, perceptive, and has a wonderful dry wit when he's comfortable. His strengths include: • Deep passion for horses and equestrian activities • Strong visual learning abilities • Engaging and personable when he feels safe and understood • Responds well to structure, predictability, and clear expectations What helps him thrive: • Adults who are calm, patient, and don't take things personally • Indirect communication rather than direct demands (e.g., "We need to leave in 10 minutes" rather than "Get ready now") • Consistency and reliability – knowing what to expect • Being given time to process information and transitions • Feeling respected and heard, not managed or controlled Challenges to be aware of: • Demand avoidance – direct requests can trigger resistance, even for things he wants to do • Emotional dysregulation – he can become overwhelmed, particularly with unexpected changes • Difficulty with transitions and changes to routine • Can find it hard to accept criticism, even when gently delivered Who We're Looking For Essential: • Genuine understanding of autism and ADHD (lived experience, training, or professional background) • Calm, patient temperament – not easily frustrated or rattled • Reliable and consistent – punctuality and dependability are essential • Full clean driving licence and access to own vehicle • Willingness to undergo Garda vetting • Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence • Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries while building rapport Desirable: • Interest in or experience with horses/equestrian activities • Background in social care, psychology, youth work, or education • Experience working with teenagers with additional needs • Understanding of PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) profile What We Offer • Competitive hourly rate (to be discussed based on experience) • Mileage allowance for travel • Flexible scheduling within agreed hours • Full briefing on needs, including access to relevant clinical guidance (with appropriate confidentiality) • Supportive family environment – we work collaboratively and value open communication • Opportunity to make a genuine, meaningful difference in a young person's life How to Apply If you believe you could be the right fit for this role, please get in touch with a brief introduction about yourself, including: • Your relevant experience (professional or personal) • Why this role interests you • Your availability • Contact details for two references Requirements: You must have a full driving licence, a valid work permit (if applicable), and be living in Dublin. We will arrange an initial conversation followed by an opportunity to meet the young person in a relaxed setting before any final decisions are made.

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