Travellers Liaison Officer

This is a varied and rewarding frontline role, offering the chance to work directly with individuals and families to improve access to services, promote community cohesion, and respond to a wide range of social, housing, and welfare issues. You will be primarily based at Beaumont Lodge; however, the role is largely community-based, requiring regular outreach work:

• On caravan sites
• At temporary unauthorised encampments
• In clients' homes

The post is fast-paced and responsive, requiring flexibility to meet operational demands. No two days are the same.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain effective relationships with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) communities, promoting trust and encouraging engagement.
• Undertake regular welfare visits to sites and encampments.
• Support the management of council-owned caravan sites, as required.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies, including housing, health, education, police, and social care.
• Provide advice, advocacy, and signposting to help individuals access appropriate services.
• Contribute to coordinated responses to unauthorised encampments, in line with relevant legislation and policy.
• Identify and respond appropriately to safeguarding and welfare concerns.
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to reporting, case management, and service monitoring.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 4 or equivalent in a relevant subject or experience equivalent to the above qualification level.
• Experience gained in previous posts must evidence achievement of results together with a mature approach to handling sensitive problems.
• Experience of working with individuals who may be experiencing challenging issues or circumstances in a sensitive and professional manner, including the ability to diffuse difficult situations.
• Strong communication skills, able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds and build trust, as well as skilled in negotiation and conflict resolution.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection legislation, processes and practices.
• The ability to work proactively to remove barriers and improve access to services, with an understanding of partnership working and multi-agency approaches.
• Resilience and sound judgement when working in complex or sensitive situations.
• Experience in a local authority, housing, enforcement or community-based role would be advantageous.
• Knowledge or experience of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities would be useful but not essential.

In addition, we also expect you to share and to deliver accessible and inclusive services which meet the needs of all of our residents. You will be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these commitments as part of the selection process. Reasonable adjustments will be considered for applicants with a disability. This post is covered by Part 7 of the Immigration Act (2016) and therefore the ability to speak fluent English is an essential requirement for this role.

Interested in flexible working? We are open to discussions about flexible working, which may include part time working, job sharing, term-time working, flexible start and finish times, and hybrid working, depending on the requirements of the role and the service. If you would like to discuss the possible flexible working options that might be applicable to this role, please contact the person named below.