Direct Payment Worker

**The job itself**:
I am a 12-year-old boy who is kind, funny, chatty and I am usually found with a smile on my face. I especially love to talk about my special interests such as snails and other creatures. I am caring to animals and am good at looking after them - I would love to work in a zoo when I’m older. All my family are very important to me too and I can be very affectionate.

I enjoy sports like dodgeball, tennis, cricket, and archery. I love to go on walks to the park or to the beach where I might be able to find sea snails. I like sensory activities such as playing with slime and dirt. I also enjoy playing board games and card games when I can’t get out and about. Getting attention and connection from adults is very important to me.

A routine is very useful for me, and it helps me if I know what is happening now and next. If I lose control of my emotions, some space to calm down usually helps, and a chat about what is going on for me. Snail pictures and ‘clicky’ pens also make me feel better. I can tell you about how I am feeling and can also say some things to shock people to see their reaction, and during these times I need clear expectations and boundaries.

I need someone to work alongside my Direct Payment Worker on a 2:1 basis to help me to have short breaks and go out and about in the community to different activities. I also need help with my emotions to help me stay regulated. I have a diagnosis of Autism, ADHD and ODD, so I can struggle when there are lots of noises and busy distractions, but support can help me to focus and engage in socialising, going out and enjoying different activities.