At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable parents/guardians with complex needs in navigating child protection processes.
- Company: Disability Together, dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 25 days leave, training opportunities, and a supportive culture.
- Other info: Join a user-led organisation committed to equality and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of families while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in advocacy or support roles, strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 29356 - 35880 £ per year.
NB. This post is exclusively funded through the Devon County Council (DCC) Devon Advocacy Service contract to deliver advocacy services in accordance with the DCC specification. The successful applicant will need to provide two references and a satisfactory DBS at enhanced level.
About Disability Together
Disability Together exists to ensure people with physical, learning and/or sensory disabilities and D/deaf people with BSL can make an active and equal contribution in society. Specifically we:
- Encourage people to feel more informed, valued and confident to take part in society through relevant training and support;
- Enable people to identify priorities and develop user-led services;
- Engage people in effective communication with local/national service commissioners and providers;
- Empower people to raise awareness of what society needs to do to provide equality of opportunity both locally and nationally.
Service profile
The Devon Advocacy Consortium is commissioned by Devon County Council to provide a high quality Independent Advocacy service across Devon and Torbay for vulnerable adults with complex health or social care needs due to physical, learning or sensory disability, Deafness (for whom British Sign Language is their first or preferred language), Acquired Brain Injury and/or general frailty. The aim of the Devon Advocacy Consortium (which is made up of a number of local specialist providers) is to provide a joined up advocacy service which meets the needs of vulnerable people across Devon and Torbay.
Child protection is part of the safeguarding process and focuses on the protection of children and young people who have been identified as suffering or likely to suffer significant harm. These procedures can be incredibly complex for parents/guardians to navigate, particularly when they themselves have learning disabilities, mental health issues or complex communication needs. The Devon Advocacy Consortium provides independent advocacy for parents/guardians with this process, on a spot purchased arrangement via the local authority.
The Definition of ‘Advocacy’
"Advocacy is taking action to help people say what they want, secure their rights, represent their interests and obtain services they need. Advocates and advocacy schemes work in partnership with the people they support and take their side". (Quality Standards for Advocacy Schemes, Action for Advocacy.)
Job profile
To act as an advocate for vulnerable parents/guardians with complex health or social care support needs due to physical, learning, and/or sensory disability or communication needs. This can involve meeting with clients in their own homes, supporting them at various child protection meetings and court hearings. Due to the nature of this role of working in very rural areas, it is essential that the post holder is able to travel to all areas of Devon if required. The cost of parking and travel expenses will be met in accordance with Disability Together's terms and conditions. The successful applicant will need to provide two references. Due to the nature of the job, this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. The successful applicant will be required to complete an Enhanced DBS in line with the Police Act 1997.
In return for your hard work and dedication you’ll enjoy a wide range of benefits including:
- Flexible working options, hybrid options
- Supportive culture
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays increasing with length of service.
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Contributory pension scheme (conditions apply)
- Training and development opportunities.
- Cycle to work scheme
- Fully Accessible office with on-site parking
Closing date: Friday 21 August 2026 (5pm)
Interview date: Tuesday 1 September 2026
Disability Confident
Disability Together strives to be user-led in all that we do and we welcome applications from Disabled and D/deaf people. All Disabled and D/deaf people who meet the essential requirements against the person specification will be offered an interview. This is part of our commitment as a Disability Confident Leader. Just let us know in your application that you are applying under the Offer an Interview Scheme. An enhanced DBS check is required for this post.
Email us: jobs@disabilitytogether.org.uk, or telephone us: 01392 459222. Please contact us if you require the application pack in a different format or any other reasonable adjustments.
Parental Advocate (Part time) - Devon-based in Exeter employer: Disability Together
Disability Together is an exceptional employer dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, offering a supportive and flexible work culture that prioritises employee well-being and growth. With benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, training opportunities, and a commitment to inclusivity, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the community across Devon. Join us in advocating for vulnerable parents and guardians, where your contributions will be valued and recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Parental Advocate (Part time) - Devon-based in Exeter
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like Disability Together, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at Disability Together. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through Disability Together's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Parental Advocate (Part time) - Devon-based in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at Disability Together. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at Disability Together.
How to prepare for a job interview at Disability Together
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with Disability Together.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a Parental Advocate (Part time) - Devon-based at Disability Together.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show Disability Together that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Parental Advocate (Part time) - Devon-based role.
