Companion for Neurodivergent Adult – Kenridge, Northern Suburbs, Cape Town

We are seeking a compassionate, grounded, and understanding companion to support a 33‑year‑old woman with mild intellectual disability, epilepsy, and Level 2 autism. This role offers the opportunity to build a meaningful, long‑term connection while supporting her daily life through gentle encouragement, structured routines, and creative, socially engaging activities.

The client enjoys music, drawing, knitting, and spending time with animals. She benefits from a calm, low‑demand approach and gentle encouragement to be active. The ideal candidate will bring warmth, patience, and creativity—someone who can contextualise situations, provide executive functioning support, and foster independence in a constructive, age‑appropriate way.

Main Purpose of the Job

To provide companionship, guidance, and support in daily activities, fostering independence and social connection through structure, creativity, and gentle encouragement. A genuine passion for neurodiversity and being a secure, long‑term source of support are essential.

Job Objectives

• Plan and facilitate structured, enjoyable activities such as walks, creative projects, visits to animal welfare organisations, and church, in collaboration with the family and using a client‑led approach.
  
• Provide daily companionship and emotional support, particularly during periods of anxiety.
  
• Support regulation needs by lessening uncertainty and anxiety through a calm, low‑demand approach.
  
• Encourage consistency in hygiene and daily routines and support healthier eating habits.
  
• Assist with executive functioning by helping to create flexible routines and using visual aids where appropriate.
  
• Collaborate with the family and multidisciplinary team to ensure a neuro-affirming approach.
  
• Facilitate opportunities for social connection in age‑appropriate contexts.
  

Requirements

General Requirements

• Valid driver’s license, driving experience, and clean driving record – Essential
  
• Well‑spoken in English – Essential
  

Job‑Related Work Experience

• Previous experience in a role supporting neurodivergent individuals – Essential
  
• Familiarity with autism spectrum disorder and neurodevelopmental presentations – Essential
  
• Familiarity with and knowledge of low‑arousal, client‑led, neuro-affirming practices – Desirable
  
• Willingness to be trained in supporting neurodiverse individuals – Essential
  

Job‑Related Skills

• Ability to plan and implement daily activities with a creative and flexible approach – Essential
  
• Ability to minimise stress and anxiety by utilising a low‑arousal approach – Essential
  
• Organisational skills, including the ability to implement structure and manage time effectively – Essential
  
• Strong relationship‑building skills – Essential
  
• Emotionally grounded with excellent self‑regulation and personal accountability.
  
• Patience, empathy, and a commitment to building a trusting, supportive relationship.
  
• Ability to guide and support in both structured and unstructured environments, balancing life skill teaching, support, and fun.
  
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with the family and other support systems.
  
• Flexible and adaptable, able to adjust to the client’s needs and schedule.
  

Working Hours

• Two hours daily, five days a week with flexibility to increase over time.
  

Benefits

Monthly salary

Travel costs incurred while actively fulfilling the duties of this role will be reimbursed at AA rates (commuting excluded).