At a Glance
- Tasks: Screen calls and process referrals while providing vital support to the community.
- Company: Bracknell Forest Council, a stable and supportive workplace.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, hybrid working, generous leave, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in social care while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills, ICT proficiency, and a passion for social justice.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to making a difference in people's lives.
Overview
We have a great opportunity for two Call Screening Officers on a part-time, permanent basis (hours to be negotiated). Salary will be pro rata dependant on hours worked. At Bracknell Forest, we pride ourselves on being a council which is stable and well-managed where our employees can thrive in a supportive environment. We understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance and offer a variety of flexible working practices, including options for remote working and arrangements that allow you to work from home, dependent on the needs of the service.
About You
You are someone who thrives under pressure, with excellent communication skills, both over the phone and in writing. You can prioritise tasks effectively, remain organised, and have solid ICT skills to support your work. Emotional intelligence, investigative curiosity, and a proactive attitude are at the heart of how you operate. You are comfortable recording accurate, concise information and confident in challenging both professionals and the public when needed. You are passionate about social justice, self-aware of your own biases, and able to work both independently and collaboratively. Prepared to work unsociable hours, you bring resilience, professionalism and the ability to deal with unrestricted demand in a calm and effective way.
About The Team
The Berkshire Emergency Duty Service (hosted by Bracknell Forest Council) delivers out-of-hours emergency social care across Berkshire. We are proud of the community we serve, the services we provide, and the strong networks we have built. Our team is supportive, collaborative and committed to making a difference. We value fresh ideas and give you the space to shape how we work, with excellent support from managers and colleagues. You will be given expert advice when you need it, opportunities to develop and the chance to make a real impact, both big and small, on the lives of residents.
Key responsibilities
- Act as the first point of contact for members of the public and partner agencies.
- Screen and process incoming referrals, ensuring accurate records are kept.
- Undertake database checks to support decision-making.
- Provide clear and accurate signposting information.
- Work as part of the team delivering crisis social work interventions.
- Be prepared to undertake training for the Appropriate Adult.
Our Benefits
- 25 days annual leave increasing to 28 days after 3 yearsβ continuous service, with the opportunity to buy up to 10 and sell up to 5 days. (pro rata for part time)
- Hybrid working opportunities to support your wellbeing and work-life balance.
- Paid employee volunteering scheme.
- Local government pension scheme, with life insurance cover.
- Recognition of continuous service attained within the NHS and UKHSA when calculating some benefits. (Terms and Conditions apply)
- Career development through internal and external training opportunities.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and fostering leave.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support your health and wellbeing.
- Inclusive and social working environment with a variety of staff networks and a sports and social club.
Other information
Bracknell Forest Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect everyone employed with us to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to a DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) check as part of our pre-employment checks process. We can only accept applications from candidates currently residing in the UK. Equal Opportunities: Bracknell Forest Council β Working for Equality. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Interview date and process
Interviews will be held on 7th and 8th October 2025 and will be conducted in person, providing candidates with the chance to meet the team and experience our work environment. We will be reviewing applications regularly and reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified. To avoid disappointment, please submit your application as soon as possible. Please note AI is prohibited during the interview; any candidate using AI will be withdrawn from consideration.
How to apply and contact
Please apply online via the link provided. Please note, we do not accept CVs submitted without a fully completed online application form. For informal discussion or questions about this role, please contact Shelli Read, Business Manager, at 01344 353465.
Reasonable adjustments: We are committed to ensuring an inclusive recruitment process for all applicants. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support your application or interview, please let us know by contacting recruitment@bracknell-forest.gov.uk. Find out more about reasonable adjustments.
Bracknell Forest Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect everyone employed with us to share this commitment. We can only accept applications from candidates currently residing in the UK. Sponsorsip: Candidates residing in the UK who require sponsorship to work are encouraged to assess their eligibility for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS); sponsorship availability varies and is subject to eligibility requirements and budget limitations. We cannot guarantee sponsorship for all roles and will evaluate sponsorship requests on a case-by-case basis. No agencies please.
Closing Date: 28/09/2025 at 23:59. Reference: People/25/321257
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Part-time Call Screening Officer (hours negotiable) employer: Bracknell Forest Council
Contact Detail:
Bracknell Forest Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Part-time Call Screening Officer (hours negotiable)
β¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Bracknell Forest Council and their values. This will help you tailor your responses during the interview and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
β¨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves a lot of phone interaction, try role-playing with a friend or family member. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the actual call screening.
β¨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your emotional intelligence! Think of examples from your past experiences where you've handled pressure or challenging situations effectively. This will demonstrate your resilience and professionalism.
β¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows youβre proactive and serious about the opportunity. Donβt wait until the last minute; get your application in early!
We think you need these skills to ace Part-time Call Screening Officer (hours negotiable)
Some tips for your application π«‘
Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so donβt be afraid to share your experiences and what makes you passionate about this role.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills match the job description. Focus on your communication skills and ability to handle pressure, as these are key for a Call Screening Officer.
Show Your Interest in Social Justice: Since this role is all about making a difference, itβs important to express your passion for social justice. Share any relevant experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to this cause.
Apply Through Our Website: Donβt forget to submit your application through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you a chance to showcase your enthusiasm for joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bracknell Forest Council
β¨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Call Screening Officer. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks like processing referrals and providing signposting information. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
β¨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is crucial for this position, prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in previous roles. Think about times when you had to challenge someone or convey complex information clearly. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thoughts during the interview.
β¨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
The job requires emotional intelligence and resilience, especially when dealing with challenging situations. Be ready to discuss how you've handled pressure in the past and how you approach sensitive topics. This will highlight your ability to remain calm and effective under stress.
β¨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions about the team and the work environment. Ask about the support available for new employees or how the team collaborates during crisis situations. This shows your proactive attitude and genuine interest in fitting into their culture.