Child and Family Support Worker - Supervised Family Time Team

Overview

The Opportunity

The role of a Child and Family Support Worker in the Supervised Family Time service is vital for fostering positive connections between children in care and their birth families. This position involves supervising and facilitating family time sessions, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. Collaboration with social workers is essential to deliver tailored support that addresses the unique needs of each child and their family, aiding in assessments and case planning.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support social work teams to organise and facilitate supervised family time for children and families.
• Build effective relationships with children, young people, and families to support strengths-based social work practice.
• Highlight issues and implement plans to safeguard children.
• Liaise with internal and external partner agencies to gather information for assessments and decisions regarding child plans.
• Provide information and advocacy regarding access to third-party agencies relevant to the needs of children and families.
• Contribute to meetings and reviews to inform understanding of children’s needs.
• Maintain accurate reports in accordance with policies and procedures.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies to improve outcomes for children and families.
• Deliver support according to the agreed plans with measurable impact.

Experience and Qualifications:

Essential:

• Educated to RQF Level 3 (A Level/NVQ/BTEC) or equivalent experience.
• Experience in building effective relationships with children and families in challenging situations.
• Understanding of child development and play-based activities.
• Knowledge of the issues affecting children, young people, and families requiring support.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of the Children’s Act 1989 and 2004 and relevant social care policies.
• Proven experience working with partners and external agencies.
• Evidence of continuing professional development in relevant fields.
• First Aid certification and/or knowledge of Sign Language.

Mobility Requirement:

The role requires mobility throughout a wider operational area, including travelling around Essex and transporting service users as necessary. A driving licence and access to a car or equivalent mobility solutions are essential.