The Disability Services Department in the Municipality of Umeå aims to be a resource that, through close collaboration, empowers and strengthens people’s ability to live independently.

People under the age of 65 who have a disability and extensive needs for support and assistance can apply for personal assistance. A personal assistant helps a person with basic needs, such as eating, getting dressed, personal hygiene, and communication. The assistance is individually tailored and is intended to provide people with disabilities with greater opportunities to live independently.

I’m discovering life—would you like to join me on this journey?

I’m now looking for two trustworthy and reliable personal assistants who love to laugh!

About Me

I’m a woman in my 45s who wants to discover the world and am looking for someone who loves to laugh but isn’t afraid of difficult and painful emotions either.

I appreciate humor, laughter, and silly antics. As a result of trauma, I experience flashbacks, nightmares, body memories, and panic attacks. In these moments, I need help and support from my assistants.

It’s important to me that you and I build a good relationship so that I feel safe with you. This may take some time, so I ask that you be patient. Together, we’ll plan and structure our days to find a reasonable level of activity. Our daily routine will alternate between fun activities and dealing with difficult emotions and painful memories.

Your Responsibilities

You will support and assist me, a woman in her 45s who has high-functioning autism and complex PTSD.

Your primary responsibility is to help me with stress management, emotional regulation, and finding strategies to respond constructively in difficult situations. You’ll also accompany me on activities, which can range from outdoor recreation to shopping.

I have a strong interest in being outdoors and staying physically active. I’d love for you to share this interest and have the energy for it. Of course, we’ll have fun together, and when needed, you’ll support and guide me through my daily life.

About You

I’m looking for a middle-aged woman who is stable and self-assured, and who can remain composed and focused even in challenging situations. You’re perceptive and good at reading situations, which makes it easy for you to keep up with my fluctuating moods. Your perceptiveness means you’re always a step ahead and act as a stress regulator. You radiate calm to those around you, remain composed, and keep your full focus on the task at hand. You see challenges where others see obstacles and stand firm when the going gets tough.

The job requires personal maturity and the ability to take initiative and make decisions when the situation calls for it, as well as the ability to act constructively in difficult situations. You need to demonstrate a strong commitment and an interest in working with behavioral change. It is desirable that you have a degree in education or social work—for example, as a social worker, therapeutic educator, or equivalent. Experience working with traumatized individuals, as well as with people who engage in self-harm and those with autism, is welcome.

It’s also important that neither you nor anyone close to you smokes, as I have asthma.

Fluency in Swedish is required, as clear communication is essential for understanding my needs and creating a safe and functional daily routine. Personal chemistry between you and me is important, so personal compatibility is highly valued.

I’d prefer that you have a Class B driver’s license, but it’s not a requirement.

Heavy lifting is required at the workplace.

Other Information

Two permanent positions, 60–100%, starting as soon as possible, by mutual agreement. Shifts are long and extend throughout the day, evening, and weekends.

In your application, please include a cover letter telling us a little about yourself, your interests, and why you are applying for this position.

Before an offer of employment is made, we ask that you provide an extract from the police criminal records. This is done as the final step in the recruitment process.

We look forward to receiving your application!

About Umeå Municipality

Umeå Municipality is the region’s largest employer, with over 13,000 valued employees. Our organization is divided into nine departments, and together we work to ensure that Umeå grows thoughtfully. Our core values are based on a citizen-centered approach, transparency, trust, and continuous improvement. With us, you’ll work on missions that are vital to society, helping to ensure that Umeå remains a safe, secure, and fun place to live.

Umeå is northern Sweden’s largest city, offering a rich variety of experiences and opportunities. We’re a city of associations and culture that offers a richer life even outside of work. Here, you can learn what it’s like to live in Umeå: Moving to Umeå Municipality

Our team is growing, so maybe we’re looking for you? Do you want more, too? We offer fair working conditions, great benefits, and excellent opportunities for lifelong learning, as well as jobs that are important to everyone who lives and works here. We look forward to hearing from you.