At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage SEND complaints and tribunal cases, ensuring compliance and timely responses.
- Company: Liverpool City Council, dedicated to improving SEND services.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate of £400 and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on service improvement and career development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with SEND while enhancing your professional skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEND complaints and tribunal processes is essential.
The predicted salary is between 104000 - 104000 £ per year.
Liverpool City Council is seeking an experienced Tribunal and Complaints Officer to join its SEND Service on an interim basis. This role has been created to provide additional capacity and support the council's priority of reducing the number of SEND complaints and tribunal cases, while assisting with the clearance of an existing backlog.
Main Duties
- Manage a caseload of SEND complaints, mediations, and tribunal appeals in accordance with statutory requirements and local procedures.
- Investigate and respond to SEND complaints, ensuring responses are comprehensive, timely, and compliant with corporate complaints procedures.
- Prepare, coordinate, and submit tribunal case files, written responses, witness statements, and supporting evidence within required timescales.
- Represent the Local Authority at SEND Tribunal hearings, mediations, Judicial Alternative Dispute Resolution (JADR) meetings, and other appeal-related proceedings where required.
- Liaise with parents, carers, legal representatives, schools, educational settings, and multidisciplinary professionals throughout complaints and appeal processes.
- Review Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and associated evidence to support complaints investigations and tribunal activity.
- Seek opportunities for early dispute resolution and work proactively to reduce escalation of complaints and appeals.
- Provide advice and guidance to SEND colleagues regarding complaints handling, tribunal procedures, and statutory responsibilities.
- Ensure compliance with SEND legislation, tribunal directions, complaints procedures, and statutory deadlines.
- Maintain accurate records and update relevant case management systems.
- Monitor case progression and provide regular updates to senior managers and key stakeholders.
- Contribute to service improvement initiatives aimed at reducing complaints, appeals, and tribunal activity across the SEND Service.
Requirements
- Proven experience managing SEND complaints and tribunal cases within a Local Authority environment.
- Strong knowledge of the Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Code of Practice, SEND Regulations, and Tribunal procedures.
- Experience preparing and managing SENDIST Tribunal casework, written submissions, complaint responses, and legal documentation.
- Experience attending and representing a Local Authority at Tribunal hearings, mediations, and dispute resolution meetings.
- Excellent understanding of EHCP processes and SEND legislation.
- Strong negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution skills.
- Excellent written communication skills with the ability to produce clear, accurate, and legally compliant documentation.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage a complex caseload effectively.
- Experience working collaboratively with families, legal representatives, schools, and multidisciplinary professionals.
- Experience using SEND case management systems would be advantageous.
- Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a wider SEND team.
Tribunal and Complaints Officer- Hybrid in Liverpool employer: Ackerman Pierce
Liverpool City Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. As a Tribunal and Complaints Officer, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the SEND Service while enjoying the benefits of a hybrid working model in the vibrant city of Liverpool. The council is committed to reducing complaints and tribunal cases, providing a rewarding environment for those passionate about making a difference in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Tribunal and Complaints Officer- Hybrid in Liverpool
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Tribunal and Complaints Officer- Hybrid in Liverpool
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ackerman Pierce
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Ackerman Pierce.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Ackerman Pierce that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
