At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate the Independent Visitor service, recruit and train volunteers, and support children in care.
- Company: Join Croydon Council, a leading employer dedicated to safeguarding and supporting vulnerable children.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, pension contributions, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by providing trusted adult support to children in care while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience with children in challenging situations and strong admin, organizational, and interpersonal skills required.
- Other info: Flexible hours needed; evening and weekend work may be required.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 48000 £ per year.
The Independent Visitor service, is the only statutory service with a befriending nature, implemented in the Children’s Act 1989. Young people who are looked after by the local authority often lack a consistent adult role model in their lives. The service aims to provide an Independent Visitor volunteer to all children looked after who are interested in having a trusted adult who they can enjoy fun activities with and can share any worries they may have. We continue to raise awareness of the service within Croydon Council amongst young people and the professional network. We recruit Independent Visitors utilizing in person an online advertising platforms. A unique and exciting opportunity has arisen to help maintain Croydon Council’s Independent Visitor Service, one of the leading services in the country and referred to in our recent Ofsted Inspection Report published December 2024 as an team delivering impressive practice. The successful applicant will work alongside the two current
Independent Visitor Co-coordinators to provide a statutory Independent Visitor Service to children in care of Croydon Council. The service is based within the Quality Assurance and Safeguarding Unit.
About You
We are looking for a keen and enthusiastic person who enjoys working with both children and adult volunteers. The role involves the recruitment, training, assessment and approval of independent visitors, as well as meeting children in care, arranging and supervising matches between the two. Experience of working with children in challenging circumstances is essential. The work involves considerable administration so good administrative, organisational and IT skills are essential. Excellent interpersonal skills are essential, as you will be expected to make presentations to various partners and colleagues and train adult volunteers. Applicants must have flexible availability, as occasional evening and weekend working hours will be required.
You will be valued for your skills and expertise, supported by the team of experienced professionals, as well as the management at Croydon Council, one of the largest employers in the borough. We also offer:
Highly competitive compensation package
29-31 days (grade equivalent) annual leave in addition to Bank Holidays and option to purchase more
A pension scheme with an average employer contribution of 20%
Continuing Professional Development – genuine opportunities to grow, develop and specialise in your career
Management development programmes
Investment into your wellbeing
Access to Employee Discount scheme with a range of programmes (Cycle Benefit Scheme, GymFlex, Retail Discounts and more)
We promote flexible & hybrid working arrangements where possible to support a healthy work-life balance.
Closing date: Sunday 2nd February 2025 @ 11.59pm
Disclaimer
Croydon Council is an inclusive employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. We will be pleased to consider applications from candidates seeking flexible working arrangements. 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 an Enhanced DBS check which allows them to work with children.
For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Adam Fearon-Stanley 07435763400, adam.fearon-stanley@croydon.gov.uk
Independent Visitor Volunteer Coordinator - Grade 10 £42,324 - £44,331 employer: Croydon Council
Contact Detail:
Croydon Council Recruiting Team
+447435763400
stanley@croydon.gov.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Visitor Volunteer Coordinator - Grade 10 £42,324 - £44,331
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the Children's Act 1989 and the role of Independent Visitors. Understanding the legal framework and the importance of this service will help you articulate your passion and commitment during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have working with children in challenging circumstances. Be prepared to share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to connect with young people and support them effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your administrative and organizational skills by discussing any relevant tools or systems you've used in past roles. This will reassure us that you can handle the considerable administration involved in this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your flexibility regarding working hours. Since the role may require evening and weekend work, demonstrating your willingness to adapt will make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Visitor Volunteer Coordinator - Grade 10 £42,324 - £44,331
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of the Independent Visitor Volunteer Coordinator. Highlight your relevant experience in working with children and adult volunteers.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the requirements of the role. Emphasize your administrative, organizational, and interpersonal skills, as well as any experience in training or presenting.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the position and your understanding of the Independent Visitor service. Mention specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to work with children in challenging circumstances.
Highlight Flexibility: Since the role requires flexible availability, make sure to mention your willingness to work evenings and weekends if necessary. This shows your commitment to the role and the needs of the service.
How to prepare for a job interview at Croydon Council
✨Show Your Passion for Working with Children
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children, especially those in challenging circumstances. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to making a positive impact in their lives.
✨Demonstrate Strong Organizational Skills
Since the role involves considerable administration, be prepared to discuss your organizational and IT skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects in the past.
✨Highlight Your Interpersonal Skills
Excellent interpersonal skills are essential for this position. Be ready to share instances where you've effectively communicated with diverse groups, trained volunteers, or made presentations to partners.
✨Be Flexible and Open to Working Hours
The job requires flexible availability, including evenings and weekends. Show your willingness to adapt your schedule and discuss how you manage work-life balance while meeting job demands.