Return Home Interview Officer in Barnsley

Position reference: 50142542

Directorate: Children’s Services | Service: Children & Family Social Care

Working Arrangements: Agile Working

Contract type: Fixed term until 31/7/27

We are happy to talk flexible working arrangements with you, please get in touch.

This post requires an Enhanced DBS Check. If you are currently living overseas or have lived overseas in the last five years, please be aware that if you are the preferred candidate for the post, you will be required to apply for an overseas criminal records check from the country/countries you have resided in.

About the Post:

This is an exciting opportunity to join Barnsley Children and Family Social Care as a part-time Return Home Interview Officer (18.5 hours). You will provide an independent return home interview function for children and young people who have been missing from home or care, helping to understand what happened, identify any risks, and ensure their voice is heard.

Return Home Interviews are a vital part of safeguarding practice. In this role, you will engage directly with children and young people, explore the push and pull factors linked to missing episodes, and provide independent advice, guidance and signposting to help reduce future risk. You will work closely with Children’s Social Care, Early Help, Police, Education, Health and other partners to ensure information is shared appropriately and that children and young people receive the right support at the right time.

You will produce high-quality written records that demonstrate clear analysis and understanding of risk, alert managers to individual cases of concern, contribute to strategy meetings where required, and help the service reduce repeat missing episodes through effective and creative engagement.

Our vision in Children’s Services is clear – Barnsley a place of possibilities:

• We are one service with one goal, working together to build a brighter Barnsley for every child
• Putting Children and Families First
• Working together in partnership to deliver joined up care
• Delivered by a strong and valued workforce

We are looking for someone who is compassionate, reflective, confident in engaging children and young people, and committed to safeguarding and promoting their wellbeing.

Who are we looking for?

• You will have a relevant Level 4 qualification, such as Youth and Community Work, or substantial equivalent experience in a relevant area.
• You will have substantial experience of working with children and young people who may be difficult or reluctant to engage, including those whose behaviour may place them at risk of poor outcomes.
• You will have experience of partnership working with services such as Children’s Social Care, Police, Education and Health, and an understanding of safeguarding, exploitation and risk.
• You will be able to build trusting relationships with children, young people and families, adapting your approach, tools and resources to support meaningful engagement.
• You will be confident in recording clear, accurate and analytical case notes, using good written communication and IT skills.
• You will be able to work independently and as part of a team, managing competing demands and responding within statutory timescales.
• You will be willing to work flexibly to meet the needs of children and young people, including work after school hours, evenings and weekends as required.
• You will be able to travel within and outside of the Borough in connection with the post.

In return we will offer you:

• A permanent, part-time opportunity within a supportive and committed Children and Family Social Care service.
• A highly competitive salary, Grade 7.
• High-quality regular supervision, support and access to a nurturing management team that encourages learning and development.
• Flexible working arrangements, subject to service needs.
• A commitment to continuous professional development, with a strong training and development offer.
• Good IT support and equipment.
• A commitment to health and wellbeing, including access to an employee assistance programme.

How do we sum up Barnsley Council?

We are an Ofsted rated ‘Good’ Children’s Services and a double award-winning, high-performing council with a growing economy, a thriving town centre and some truly impressive outcomes in our communities. We have been awarded Council of the Year for 2023 by the Local Government Chronicle (LGC) and The Municipal Journal (MJ).

We’re impressed. Are you? It’s the perfect time to join our excellent team.

For an informal discussion please do not hesitate to contact us. Shortlisting will take place week beginning 10th August and interviews will be week beginning 24th August.

We welcome the opportunity to have a chat about the role and are happy to address any questions you may have about flexible working arrangements, including as a result of caring responsibilities.

We're committed to creating a workplace where differences are valued and everyone truly feels able to be themselves. If you have any support needs during the recruitment process, please let us know.

At Barnsley Council, we believe in second chances and value diversity. Our recruitment process is inclusive, and we welcome applicants with past convictions. We're committed to fairness and do not discriminate. Join us in building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.