At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub in making crucial decisions for children's services.
- Company: Join Croydon Council, dedicated to safeguarding and supporting children and families.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Inclusive employer with flexible working arrangements and commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in safeguarding, social care, and strong communication skills required.
Croydon's MASH is the 'front door' for all new referrals for children who may need early help support or children's social care intervention, making important decisions about which services children need. We are the first contact many professionals, families and members of the public have with Croydon and as such we want people to receive outstanding services from the start. The Contact and Referral Officer role will support the effective functioning of the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) ensuring an effective and efficient service to all enquiries. The successful person will support the social workers, team managers and key multi-agency partners building effective relationships which supports and safeguards children and young people.
About you
- You are an experienced Contact & Referral Officer, passionate about your work and committed to improving outcomes for children and families.
- Good knowledge and understanding of Safeguarding, Children's Social Care and Early Help including Continuum of need.
- Knowledge of ICT systems and processes.
- Demonstrate skill in developing collaborative and effective working relationships with a range of stakeholders.
- Ability to communicate information accurately and clearly - both to members of the public and professionals and colleagues within the MASH and across the practice system.
- Ability to identify and communicate safeguarding concerns urgently with relevant social worker / manager.
- Experience of administrative work and understanding of office procedures within a busy and sensitive public environment.
About Us
- Croydon Council's priorities include becoming financially sustainable, listening to and respecting diverse communities, strengthening collaboration with partner organisations, ensuring good governance, and developing our workforce.
- Key business plan outcomes focus on providing opportunities for business, ensuring children and young people can thrive, creating a cleaner and safer environment, and enabling healthier independent lives.
Equal Opportunities Statement
Croydon Council is an inclusive employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Subject to business needs, we will be pleased to consider applications from candidates seeking flexible working arrangements and support hybrid working. As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the advertised role. Croydon council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to a DBS check, if the role requires one.
Contact and Referral Officer employer: Croydon Council
Croydon Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises community engagement and professional development. As a permanent, full-time Community-Led Social Worker, you will benefit from a collaborative environment that encourages innovation in strengths-based support, while also having access to ongoing training and career advancement opportunities. Working in Croydon means being part of a vibrant community where your contributions directly impact the lives of residents and families.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contact and Referral Officer
✨Dive into Local Community Groups
Social work thrives on community connections, so get involved in local groups or forums specific to your interests. Whether it’s volunteering at local shelters or joining community action boards, these are great ways to boost your visibility and make direct contacts that could lead to opportunities like the one at Croydon Council.
✨Attend Social Work Events and Workshops
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences in social work. These events are fantastic for meeting professionals in the field, learning about emerging trends, and spotting job openings. Plus, you might just bump into someone from Croydon Council!
✨Showcase Your Passion and Expertise
Use platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn to share your journey and insights into the social work sector. Whether it’s writing about your experiences or sharing relevant articles, this helps to establish you as an engaged professional. Potential employers, like Croydon Council, will notice your enthusiasm!
✨Leverage Your Network
Don’t hesitate to reach out to professors, mentors, or even past colleagues who are in social work. They might have inside knowledge about openings at Croydon Council or be able to connect you with someone who’s hiring. Networking is key, especially in a full-time role where relationships matter.
We think you need these skills to ace Contact and Referral Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let us see your passion for social work shine through! Talk about the experiences that made you want to pursue this career—whether it’s volunteering, personal experiences, or academic projects. We want to know why this field matters to you.
Emphasise Relevant Qualifications:Make sure your CV highlights any relevant qualifications, like degrees in social work or certifications like a DBS check. If you've done any workshops or training, don’t forget to include those as well. We're keen to see your commitment to your professional development!
Detail Your Experience with Clients:Since this is a hands-on field, detailing any direct experience you have with clients is crucial. Whether it's internships, volunteer roles, or previous jobs, highlight those experiences in your CV to show us you've got the practical skills necessary for the job!
Tailor Your Application to Croydon Council:Before hitting send, make sure to tailor your application specifically to Croydon Council! Research our mission and values, and refer to them in your cover letter. This shows us that you understand our work and are genuinely interested in being a part of our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Croydon Council
✨Understanding the Role of Empathy
In social work, understanding and demonstrating empathy is key. Be prepared to share personal experiences or scenarios where you effectively showed compassion and support. This helps show that you genuinely care about the well-being of others, which is crucial in social work.
✨Demonstrating Knowledge of Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with the frameworks and models used in social work, such as the Strengths-Based Approach or the Ecological Perspective. Be ready to discuss how these frameworks apply to your work, especially if you can tie them into real-world examples or case studies you've encountered.
✨Showcasing Your Multi-Disciplinary Skills
In a full-time social work role, you'll often collaborate with healthcare professionals, educators, and law enforcement. Be prepared to describe your teamwork experiences and how you've effectively communicated with other disciplines to achieve the best outcomes for clients.
✨Preparing for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical social work situations, such as dealing with a crisis or managing a complex case. Think through your thought process for these scenarios beforehand, considering how you'd assess the situation and what steps you'd take, as this demonstrates your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
