At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise and support contact sessions for children and families in local authority care.
- Company: Join Newham’s Family Contact Centre, dedicated to child welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, holiday pay, and pension scheme with ongoing training.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a supportive, inclusive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with children and families, NVQ Level 2 or equivalent required.
The predicted salary is between 16.13 - 16.13 £ per hour.
This role is part of Newham’s Family Contact Centre. You will supervise and support contact sessions for children and families involved in proceedings. The position is a zero‑hour contract requiring up to 20 hours a week across Monday through Saturday (10 am–6 pm).
Key Responsibilities
- Observe and facilitate contacts between children and families in local authority care.
- Manage risk and intervene as necessary to safeguard children.
- Supervise contacts in the centre, via video links or in the community.
- Write contact reports in the agreed format, documenting observations and outcomes.
- Provide safeguarding support and work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Experience & Qualifications
- Proven experience working with children and families, especially in child protection or family support services.
- Strong understanding of child protection policy and procedures.
- Experience working collaboratively with social workers, guardians and other agencies.
- Knowledge of child development and parenting.
- Relevant qualification: NVQ Level 2 or above in a relevant area (or equivalent).
- Commitment to safeguarding and welfare of children and vulnerable groups.
Skills
- Excellent communication with children, families and professionals.
- Strong observational and reporting skills.
- High empathy, emotional intelligence and professionalism.
- Calm under pressure and ability to manage challenging behaviour.
- Organisational and record‑keeping competence.
- Understanding of safeguarding practices and confidentiality.
- Problem‑solving and decision‑making in a child protection context.
- Child‑centred, non‑judgmental approach to achieve positive outcomes.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly rate (£16.13 per hour, rising to £16.83 after probation).
- Holiday pay and option to join the local authority pension scheme.
- Training, supervision and ongoing support.
Schedule
- Flexitime: Monday‑Friday; weekend availability required.
- Maximum of 20 hours per week across weekdays and Saturdays, 10 am–6 pm.
Other Requirements
- Enhanced DBS and annual Childcare Disqualification Disclosure.
- All applicants will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Equal Opportunities
We are committed to creating an inclusive, anti‑racist environment for all. Applications are assessed on merit regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender identity or sexual orientation.
Legal
The position is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 and Amendments.
Sessional Contact Supervisor in London employer: London Borough of Newham
As a Sessional Contact Supervisor at Newham’s Family Contact Centre, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to safeguarding and supporting children and families in need. Our inclusive work culture prioritises professional development, offering training and ongoing support, while the flexible hours allow for a healthy work-life balance. With competitive pay and a strong emphasis on collaboration within a multidisciplinary team, this role provides a meaningful opportunity to make a positive impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sessional Contact Supervisor in London
✨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 London Borough of Newham, 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 London Borough of Newham. 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 London Borough of Newham's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Sessional Contact Supervisor in London
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 London Borough of Newham. 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 London Borough of Newham.
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Newham
✨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 London Borough of Newham.
✨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 Sessional Contact Supervisor at London Borough of Newham.
✨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 London Borough of Newham that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Sessional Contact Supervisor role.
