Job Title: Personal Advisor – Social Care Qualified
Location: Station Road, Ilford, Greater London, IG6 1NB
Employer: Redbridge Council
Group: Children and Families – Leaving Care Team
Employment Type: Temporary (26 Weeks)
Hours: 35 hours per week
Start Date: 26 May 2025
Job Purpose
To provide high-quality, needs-led support for young people preparing to leave care and after they have left care, in line with the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000 and the Children Act 2010. The role supports young people’s transition to independence by offering practical, emotional, and developmental guidance.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver statutory personal advisor duties for eligible, relevant, and former relevant care leavers, including the development and regular review of Pathway Plans.
- Conduct statutory visits to care leavers every two months.
- Support 16–17-year-olds in planning for independence in collaboration with CLA/FH colleagues.
- Work flexibly, including evenings when required, to meet the needs of young people.
- Facilitate group and individual sessions aimed at improving independent living skills, career development, education, and accommodation planning.
- Provide tailored post-18 support to reduce isolation and enhance peer and community engagement.
- Assist in securing suitable accommodation, ensuring all housing-related documentation and applications are completed accurately.
- Maintain strong partnerships with agencies such as Connexions, training providers, colleges, local employers, and voluntary sector services to promote access to opportunities.
- Encourage and support care leaver participation in service design, the Children in Care Council, and local consultation activities.
- Assess financial needs, support access to benefits and grants, and guide young people on managing their leaving care financial packages.
- Maintain accurate records and case notes using appropriate IT systems, adhering to data protection and confidentiality policies.
- Actively participate in training and development activities provided by the team or department.
Essential Requirements
- Qualified Social Care professional (e.g., DipSW, CQSW, or equivalent).
- Experience working with children in care, care leavers, or young people in a social care or youth work setting.
- Knowledge of relevant legislation and statutory responsibilities, including the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to work independently, flexibly, and collaboratively with multi-agency partners.
- Strong organisational and administrative skills, including experience with case recording and IT systems.
- Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusive practice.