Neurodevelopmental Specialist

Position Overview

Contract Type: Fixed Term/Secondment

We are thrilled to announce an opportunity within the Neurodevelopmental Services in West Wales. We are looking for dedicated and passionate Band 6 Neurodevelopmental Practitioners to become part of our welcoming and diverse West Wales Integrated Autism Service.

We invite applications from qualified professionals (Nurse, Allied Health Professional, Qualified Teacher with QTS, or Social Worker) who are eager to join our team. Ideal candidates will possess a sincere interest in neurodiversity and a commitment to enhancing the lives of neurodivergent adults.

Successful applicants will bring a variety of transferable skills and a strong desire to expand their knowledge and expertise in autism and neurodiversity. The role demands the ability to perform under pressure while delivering high-quality, collaborative care and support to autistic individuals, regardless of their mental health or learning challenges.

Key Responsibilities

Your primary focus will be on conducting diagnostic assessments for autism, with comprehensive training provided. You will engage with autistic adults to assess and address their support needs, both individually and in group settings, through virtual and face-to-face interactions. Collaboration with individuals, family members, and partner organizations is essential.

The West Wales Integrated Autism Service serves the Hywel Dda University Health Board region, providing diagnostic assessments for adults who do not qualify for statutory services such as mental health and learning disabilities. Additionally, the service offers time-limited support, professional consultation, and training related to autism.

Welsh language proficiency is preferred for this position; however, applications from both English and Welsh speakers are encouraged.

About Hywel Dda University Health Board

Hywel Dda University Health Board is responsible for planning and delivering NHS healthcare services to residents in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, and surrounding areas. Our dedicated team of 12,000 staff provides a comprehensive range of services, including primary, community, in-hospital, mental health, and learning disabilities care to approximately 384,000 individuals across a significant portion of Wales.

We collaborate with local authorities and various sectors, including public, private, and third sector partners, to ensure the best possible care for our communities.

Qualifications and Skills

Essential:

• Relevant degree in a professional field (Nursing, Allied Health Professional, Social Work, Education)
• Registered member of a professional body (NMC, HCPC, ECW, CCW, RCOT)
• Post-registration qualification or equivalent experience at a post-graduate diploma level
• Understanding of National and Local Autism policies and legislation
• Willingness to train in specific autism diagnostic assessment tools
• Awareness of the needs of autistic individuals and their families
• Insight into the evolving needs of individuals with autism throughout their lives
• Knowledge of multi-agency collaboration and multidisciplinary care for autistic individuals
• Understanding of record-keeping standards
• Awareness of local, cultural, linguistic, and demographic factors affecting service delivery

Desirable:

• Evidence of participation in advanced and specialized postgraduate courses related to neurodiversity
• Demonstrated professional interest in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Familiarity with various assessment and intervention tools relevant to the client group

Experience

Essential:

• Experience working with autistic adults and/or children and their families
• Willingness to enhance knowledge and experience in ASD across the lifespan
• Experience in multi-agency collaboration and promoting multidisciplinary practices
• Ability to develop, plan, implement, and deliver training programs
• Proficiency in using information gathering/reporting systems and relevant software

Desirable:

• Experience working with both autistic adults and children, as well as individuals with learning disabilities and/or mental health issues
• Knowledge of strategies that support autistic individuals and their families
• Experience in mentoring and developing the skills of less experienced staff

Language Skills

Desirable:

• Welsh Speaker (Level 1)