At a Glance
- Tasks: Create fun, safe spaces and deliver engaging sessions for young people aged 12-25.
- Company: Dumfries and Galloway Council, committed to youth development and community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health discounts, pension scheme, and professional training.
- Other info: Flexible hours with evening and weekend work; all training provided.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while working in a fun, energetic environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for youth work and ability to connect with young people; experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 6966 - 7316 £ per year.
You will be required to work 8 hours per week (evenings & weekends), 52.14 weeks per year. This post is fixed term for up to 12 months. This post may be suitable for secondment. Agreement from your line manager must be sought before applying for this post.
Do you care about getting it right for young people? Do you believe you can help young people reach their full potential? Do you work best in energetic, fast‑paced and fun environments? If yes — we’d LOVE you to join our Youth Work Team!
Dumfries and Galloway Council is looking for a committed and enthusiastic Youth Worker to help deliver high quality youth work opportunities for young people aged 12–25 across Nithsdale. You’ll be part of a friendly, supportive team that puts young people at the heart of everything we do.
What You’ll Do
- Create fun, safe, welcoming spaces where young people feel valued, heard, and included.
- Plan and deliver engaging youth work sessions — from drop‑ins and projects to outdoor activities, workshops, and events.
- Support young people’s personal and social development, building confidence, resilience, and leadership skills.
- Champion youth voice, encouraging young people to shape the services and things that matter most to them.
- Work alongside schools, partners, and community groups to make a positive impact in local communities.
Every day is different — and that’s what makes youth work rewarding.
We’re Looking For Someone Who:
- Is passionate about working with young people.
- Brings energy, humour and positivity into the room.
- Is able to build trusting, respectful relationships.
- Can meet young people where they’re at, not where you think they should be.
- Can make every young person feel seen, heard and valued.
- Is willing to learn and develop professionally.
Experience in youth work is welcome — but what matters most is your attitude, values, and ability to connect with young people.
Ready to Join Us?
If you like what you’ve heard so far and want to be part of a youth work service that’s growing, evolving, and making a real impact across Dumfries and Galloway — we’d love to hear from you. All training required will be provided. A current driving licence is an essential requirement of this post. However, if you have a disability which precludes you from holding a driving licence consideration will be given if alternative transport can be arranged. The post will require evening and weekend work on a weekly basis, for which payment is included in the salary offered.
Requirements
This post is considered as Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and Protected Adults, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. From 28 February 2011, preferred candidates will be required to join the PVG Scheme or undergo a PVG scheme update check prior to formal offer of employment being made by Dumfries and Galloway Council. Applicants who have been resident outside the UK within the last 5 years, if offered a position, in addition to a Disclosure Scotland Check, will be required to provide a completed police record check from the police authority in the country or countries in which they were resident.
With an exciting benefits package, working for Dumfries and Galloway Council supports you to invest in your own health and wellbeing. Employees have access to our bespoke Vivup platform with over 800 discounts on everyday essentials from top UK retailers, restaurants, utility providers and more. Employees also get access to membership of The Local Government Pension Scheme (Scotland), exclusive discounts from local businesses, a Cycle-to-Work scheme, financial support from My Money Matters, and guidance from our trained Wellbeing Champions.
Here at Dumfries and Galloway Council we are committed to equality, diversity and equal opportunity with our values, which include treating everyone with dignity, fairness and respect, driving us to tackle inequality. We are looking for people that can bring different perspectives and experiences and especially welcome applications from those who are underrepresented in our organisation.
Informal enquiries to: billie.hill@dumgal.gov.uk or 01387 260243
Contact Details:
Dumfries and Galloway Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Youth Worker - DGA13402 in Sanquhar
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Dumfries and Galloway Council, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Youth Worker - DGA13402 in Sanquhar
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Dumfries and Galloway Council. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Dumfries and Galloway Council. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dumfries and Galloway Council
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Dumfries and Galloway Council.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Youth Worker - DGA13402 role at Dumfries and Galloway Council, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Dumfries and Galloway Council that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
