Job Description

YorLinc provide a range of support to students in receipt of DSA (Disabled Students' Allowance) throughout the UK. We have provided accredited assessments and personalised training to students with specific learning difficulties, mental health problems, sensory impairments and physical disabilities for over 20 years. Due to the expansion of our services, we are looking for dedicated and experienced Specialist Mentors.

Specialist Mentors support students in higher education to address barriers to learning created by their Autism Spectrum Disorder. Barriers to education can include concentration and motivation issues, managing academic workloads, peer relationships etc. The role of the Specialist Mentor is to provide highly specialist, one-to-one tailored support to assist students to develop both psychological and practical strategies to manage and overcome disability-related difficulties they experience whilst studying.

The role of a Specialist Mentor is not to provide counselling services, but to deliver a person-centred approach to overcome study-related difficulties. At times however, signposting and encouragement to discuss personal mental health issues with relevant professionals may be required.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

To deliver Specialist Mentor sessions in accordance with YorLinc guidelines. Plan and implement specialised, tailored support based on students' individual disability-related issues. Record management and completion of documentation relevant to Specialist Mentor sessions e.g., time sheets, individual support plans etc. Represent YorLinc in a professional manner and comply with all company policies and procedures. Regular supervision and CPD.

Essential Requirements:

Applicants must hold a degree qualification and have completed training in adult autism which includes the following:

Six National Autistic Society (NAS) online training modules. National Autistic Society (NAS) course in Autism and SPELL in Higher Education.
OR

Optimum training course: Autism and ADHD in Higher Education: Recognising and addressing the barriers through Non-Medical Helper (NMH) Mentoring and Study Skills Strategies.

Desirable requirements:

Experience of mentoring or working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Conditions. Experience of working with students in higher education. The ability to provide empathetic, non-judgemental support. Good communication skills. A commitment to promoting equal opportunities in education.

What we can offer you:

Flexible working hours Competitive rates of pay

Additional Information:

Working hours will vary dependent on the needs of the students, and the number of the students you will be allocated to support in the role. A mixture of remote and in-person support will be required based on the preference of students. All applicants must be eligible to work in the UK, have internet access and a full driving license. A valid and clean DBS check is also required.

If the opportunity to support students in higher education with disabilities and additional needs interests you, then please submit a cover letter with your CV detailing why you feel you would be the ideal candidate for the job role described.

Job Types: Part-time, Freelance

Pay: 32.00 per hour

Experience:

DSA funded Specialist Mentoring: 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: In person