At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead initiatives on domestic abuse and safeguarding, shaping impactful strategies.
- Company: Join Maidstone Borough Council, dedicated to high-quality services and community wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Hybrid role with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in domestic abuse or safeguarding policy development is essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 € per year.
Overview
About the Role: We are looking for a Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Coordinator, which offers an exciting opportunity to help shape both our internal and external response to domestic abuse and safeguarding.
The role will be integral in meeting our statutory responsibilities as set out in the Domestic Abuse act, as well as leading on Safeguarding in partnership with Kent County Council and the other districts of Kent.
This role will also be line managing our Domestic Abuse support staff based at our own refuge sites, so having some experience of working in supported housing or refuges and how they operate would be advantageous.
The role requires an excellent understanding of the issues in relation to domestic abuse and safeguarding which at times can be very interlinked or mutually exclusive. The post holder must be able to juggle these commitments to achieve the best outcomes; as well as communicate with a wide audience and have an exceptional communication style, which is both persuasive and dynamic in their delivery of ideas.
The post holder will be responsible for authoring both the internal and external domestic abuse strategies, they will be required to Chair the DA forum and ensure we meet our statutory and regulatory requirements.
More recently we have been working towards our DAHA accreditation and the post holder will be responsible for carry this forward to completion.
The post holder will also need to be able to set, monitor and review Performance Indicators, develop a collaborative approach to partnerships across the district and be able to work with minimal supervision to ensure an excellent level of customer service.
This is a full time position (37 hours) on a permanent contract. Some weekends, evenings and early mornings work may be required, and this includes an out of hour’s on call rota for which there is financial renumeration.
The role will be hybrid and will require the post holder to work from sites across Maidstone including Trinity House at least three days a week.
About Us
Maidstone Borough Council is a confident organisation with ambition and aspirations to deliver high quality services to our residents and local businesses. We strive to make the borough an attractive place for all and secure a successful economy.
We continue to build on our strengths - assets, knowledge and expertise and our track record for innovation and improvement to create a financially sustainable future so that we can continue with our undiminished plans.
We will only achieve the results we are aiming for through the talents and hard work of all our people. You are encouraged to become part of our vision and in return you can expect support, training, and fair reward from us. We will give you the opportunity to develop the skills to do your job well and create a positive working environment where your ideas about improving how we do things are valued and we manage the changes needed for new ways of working well.
The Offer
A range of benefits including:
- Invitations to staff events to celebrate success and support wellbeing that include holistic therapies and outdoor activities
- Employee Assistance Programme which provides confidential & independent information and access to counsellors
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- Life Assurance – three times your annual salary (for members of the LGPS)
- Generous holiday entitlement with the option to buy additional leave
- Season Ticket Loan - to help with the cost of your rail/ bus journey, to & from work
- Lease car salary sacrifice scheme allowing you to lease a brand-new car. The monthly fee includes insurance, servicing and road tax.
- A wide range of flexible working opportunities
- Annual flu vaccine
- Cycle to work scheme
- Staff benefits discounts on leisure, eating out, holidays and shopping
- Excellent learning and career opportunities for committed individuals
- A professional fee payment, if required for the role
About You
The successful applicant will have previous experience of working in the strategic development of policy/practice for domestic abuse and/or safeguarding, with a good working knowledge of relevant legislation.
You will be an excellent communicator with the ability to engage with a range of stakeholders at all levels and build positive working relationships with external agencies. You will be organised and proactive, with an empathetic approach, and the ability to oversee refuge sites and staff.
You will need to be flexible with your working hours and able to participate in the out of hours rota as required.
Selection Process
Following the submission of your application form, it will be reviewed by the recruiting manager. Those that are successful in securing an interview can expect job specific interview assessment, followed by an interview.
Maidstone Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employee and volunteers to share this commitment.
The Council considers that the successful applicant will have access to young people and/or vulnerable adults and it is a requirement under The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 that you hold an enhanced disclosure and barring scheme check. Upon successful appointment, you will be required to provide evidence of an enhanced DBS check if you subscribe to the DBS Update Service or complete the process to obtain a DBS check.
If you would like to discuss this position please contact Hannah Gaston, Housing & Inclusion Manager on 01622 602262.
Job Description and Person Specification: https://docs.maidstone.gov.uk/jobs/Domestic-Abuse-and-Safeguarding-Co-Ordinator-MBC-JDPS-Sept25.pdf
Interview Date: Friday 31st October
Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Coordinator in Maidstone employer: Maidstone Borough Council
Maidstone Borough Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff, offering a supportive work culture and a range of benefits including flexible working opportunities, generous holiday entitlement, and access to training programmes. As a Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Coordinator, you will play a vital role in shaping community safety while enjoying a collaborative environment that values your ideas and contributions. With a commitment to innovation and improvement, this position not only provides meaningful work but also the chance to make a significant impact in the lives of residents across Maidstone.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Coordinator in Maidstone
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the domestic abuse and safeguarding sector. Attend local events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interviews by researching Maidstone Borough Council and their approach to domestic abuse and safeguarding. Show us you’re passionate about the role and have ideas on how to improve their strategies. We love a proactive candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role requires excellent communication, consider doing mock interviews with friends or family. Get comfortable discussing your experience and how it relates to the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we want to make sure you’re part of our vision for a safer community. Let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Coordinator in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that align with the Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Coordinator role. We want to see how your background fits with our mission and the specific responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role requires exceptional communication, don’t shy away from demonstrating your persuasive and dynamic style in your written application. Use clear and engaging language to convey your ideas and experiences, as this will reflect your ability to connect with a wide audience.
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you’ve worked in supported housing or have experience with domestic abuse and safeguarding, make sure to emphasise that in your application. We’re looking for candidates who understand the complexities of these issues, so share specific examples of your past work that relate to the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to join our team at Maidstone Borough Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Maidstone Borough Council
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Domestic Abuse Act and relevant safeguarding legislation. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you understand the framework within which the role operates.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with various stakeholders in the past. This could include leading meetings or collaborating with external agencies, as strong communication is key for this role.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Experience
Since you'll be managing staff at refuge sites, think of specific instances where you've successfully led a team or project. Highlight your ability to motivate others and ensure high-quality service delivery.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life scenarios related to domestic abuse and safeguarding. Prepare by thinking through potential challenges you might face in the role and how you'd address them.
