At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and resolve SEND complaints and tribunal cases efficiently and professionally.
- Company: Civic Recruitment Limited, a supportive local authority in Liverpool.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on service improvement and community support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of families by improving SEND services.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND complaints and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 75000 £ per year.
3 Month Contract With A Local Authority
Job Purpose
The Tribunal and Complaints Officer will provide specialist support to the SEND service by managing and resolving complaints and tribunal cases, helping to reduce backlogs and improve service performance. The role will focus on ensuring complaints and SEND tribunal matters are handled efficiently, professionally, and in accordance with statutory requirements, while supporting the Council's objective of reducing the number of escalated complaints and appeals. This interim position is designed to provide additional capacity and expertise during a period of increased demand.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a caseload of SEND complaints and tribunal cases, ensuring compliance with statutory timescales and procedural requirements.
- Investigate, coordinate, and respond to complaints relating to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services.
- Prepare high-quality responses to complaints, enquiries, and appeals, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
- Coordinate tribunal processes, including gathering evidence, preparing documentation, and liaising with relevant stakeholders.
- Work closely with SEND teams, legal services, education providers, and families to resolve disputes and achieve positive outcomes.
- Review existing cases and identify opportunities for early resolution to reduce escalation to formal complaints or tribunals.
- Support the reduction of complaint and tribunal backlogs through effective case management and prioritisation.
- Maintain accurate records, case files, and management information relating to complaints and appeals.
- Monitor outcomes and identify trends, risks, and areas for service improvement.
- Provide advice and guidance to colleagues on complaints handling, SEND legislation, and tribunal procedures.
- Contribute to service improvement initiatives aimed at reducing future complaints and appeals.
- Ensure all work is undertaken in line with relevant legislation, statutory guidance, policies, and procedures.
Requirements
- Proven experience managing SEND complaints and tribunal processes within a local authority or education setting.
- Strong understanding of SEND legislation, the SEND Code of Practice, and tribunal procedures.
- Experience investigating complaints and preparing formal responses.
- Experience preparing and coordinating tribunal documentation and evidence.
- Ability to manage a high-volume caseload and meet statutory deadlines.
- Excellent written communication and report-writing skills.
- Strong organisational and case management abilities.
- Ability to work collaboratively with families, schools, legal teams, and internal stakeholders.
- Experience identifying solutions and resolving complex or sensitive cases.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.
- Experience working within a local authority SEND service.
- Experience supporting service improvement initiatives relating to complaints or tribunals.
- Knowledge of mediation and dispute resolution processes.
- Experience using case management systems and performance reporting tools.
Additional Information
- Contract Type: Interim assignment providing short-term additional capacity.
- Hours: 35 hours per week.
- Location: Hybrid working - 2 days per week on site.
Tribunal and Complaints Officer employer: Civic Recruitment Limited
Civic Recruitment Limited is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where strategic leadership in the Special Educational Needs service can truly make a difference in children's lives. With a strong focus on collaboration and professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while contributing to meaningful outcomes in the Bromley community. The supportive culture and commitment to high-quality services make this an attractive opportunity for those looking to lead impactful change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Tribunal and Complaints Officer
✨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
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 Civic Recruitment Limited
✨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 Civic Recruitment Limited.
✨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 Civic Recruitment Limited 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.
