At a Glance
- Tasks: Advocate for children's rights and ensure their voices are heard in important decisions.
- Company: Join a supportive team dedicated to making a difference in children's lives.
- Benefits: Part-time role with competitive salary and flexible working hours.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a dynamic environment with a focus on child welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by empowering young people and championing their rights.
- Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent experience, plus strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 35520 - 38739 £ per year.
Be the voice that helps young people be heard. We’re looking for a passionate advocate to make sure children and young people in Havering are genuinely listened to—and that their wishes and feelings shape the decisions that affect their lives. You’ll join a supportive service that’s part of our People directorate, where we’re committed to helping residents stay safe and well.
As a Children’s Rights Advocate, you will provide independent advocacy to children and young people who are care‑experienced or subject to Child Protection Plans, working in line with the Children Act 1989 and Advocacy National Standards. You’ll sit within Starting Well (Early Help & Targeted Family Support) and report to the Volunteer Advocacy & Independent Visitor Lead.
Key things you’ll do:- Hold and manage a caseload of children and young people who require advocacy.
- Champion each young person’s voice—ensuring their wishes and feelings are front and centre in all decisions.
- Provide non‑instructed advocacy for children with SEND and/or complex communication needs, producing clear, analytical non‑instructed reports to agreed timescales.
- Help children and young people understand their rights, statutory guidance and local processes so they can make well‑informed decisions.
- Maintain accurate, up‑to‑date records on the Council’s children’s recording system and work confidently with digital tools.
- Liaise closely with social workers, Personal Advisers, schools and other professionals to secure the best outcomes.
- Support young people to use the Council’s complaints procedures and those of partner agencies.
- Champion Havering’s pledge to children in care and promote the advocacy offer across Starting Well and the wider Council.
- Work flexibly with regular some travel across (and outside) the borough, and occasional sessions outside normal office hours.
You are values driven, Child Centred, and confident communicating with a wide range of people. You bring:
- Degree level education (Level 6) or equivalent experience.
- Experience working directly with children and young people across varied settings.
- Excellent communication—written, verbal and interpersonal—with the ability to explain complex issues simply and sensitively.
- Strong digital skills, including Microsoft 365 and children’s case management systems (e.g., Liquidlogic).
- Sound knowledge of legislation and guidance: Children Act 1989, Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000, Children and Families Act 2014, and current policy for Children Looked After and Care Leavers.
- The ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and deliver high quality direct work with children—including those with SEND or complex communication needs.
Please view Job Profile here. For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Rachel.Lythe@havering.gov.uk. The closing date for the receipt of applications is 19/6/26 however interest in this job may be high and we therefore reserve the right to close the vacancy early. You will be notified if your application has been successful. Interview date to be confirmed.
Should you require any help or advice with your online application, please contact the Recruitment Helpdesk on 01708 432770.
We want everyone to choose Havering. When you apply for a job with us, your application is considered on its merits regardless of your age, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender identity or sexual orientation. Our residents and service users come from all walks of life, and so do our employees. Find out what it means to Choose Havering.
The London Borough of Havering has important responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you are appointed to a job that involves working with these groups, you may be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Please attach your supporting statement, explaining in no more than x2 A4 sides why and how you meet the criteria for this role. We practice anonymised recruitment. Please ensure that you remove all personal information from any documents that you upload.
Children's Rights Advocate in Romford employer: Borough of Havering
At the London Borough of Havering, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to championing the rights of children and young people. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and inclusivity, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development within a community-focused environment. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people while enjoying the benefits of flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity and equality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Children's Rights Advocate in Romford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Havering and its commitment to children's rights. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely passionate about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves advocating for children, being able to explain complex issues simply is key. Try role-playing scenarios with friends to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making a difference in children's lives.
We think you need these skills to ace Children's Rights Advocate in Romford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for children's rights shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in young people's lives, so share your experiences and motivations clearly.
Tailor Your Supporting Statement:Make sure your supporting statement is tailored to the role. Highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description, especially your understanding of legislation and advocacy for children and young people.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity! Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. Make your points succinctly, ensuring that your application is easy to read and understand, especially when discussing complex issues.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary details and resources to help you along the way.
How to prepare for a job interview at Borough of Havering
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the key legislation mentioned in the job description, like the Children Act 1989 and the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show your understanding of the role and its responsibilities.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your excellent communication abilities, especially when working with children and young people. Think of situations where you’ve explained complex issues simply and sensitively, as this is crucial for a Children’s Rights Advocate.
✨Demonstrate Your Advocacy Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience in advocacy or working directly with children. Share specific instances where you championed a young person's voice and how you ensured their wishes were prioritised in decision-making.
✨Get Comfortable with Digital Tools
Brush up on your digital skills, particularly with Microsoft 365 and any children's case management systems. Be prepared to talk about how you've used technology in your previous roles to maintain records or communicate effectively.
