Assistants go through careful selection. There are checks (including police checks). You are given training. After a period of induction there’s a probationary period.
As a 'live-in' Assistant your week is structured to include breaks and personal time. You’ll also receive free board and accommodation, with your own private bedroom. There’s modest pay. You’ll have access to a pension scheme, generous holiday time and other benefits.
You’ll have regular training to keep you up to date. Like all L’Arche members you’ll be encouraged to have interests, connections and friends within the wider Community of your town or city.
Everyone goes through a statutory training process; if you stay longer you’ll be encouraged to work towards appropriate formal qualifications. These may include NVQs. (SNVQs in Scotland). You’ll also get training and qualifications in areas such as first aid and food hygiene. There will be the opportunity to develop your leadership skills. You may learn something new like sign language, craftwork and horticulture, too.
Throughout your time in L’Arche, you’ll have support from everyone in your Community, and from the wider L’Arche family. If you are not a British national you may require a visa to work in a UK L’Arche Community.