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- Tasks: Provide intensive support to children and families, ensuring safety and well-being.
- Company: Join a supportive council team dedicated to making a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while enjoying a fulfilling career.
- Qualifications: Good education, experience with children, and willingness to achieve required qualifications.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for growth and a fun, collaborative environment.
The predicted salary is between 34192 - 38907 £ per year.
Family Support Worker
Children, Families and Justice Services - Council Offices
21 hours Permanent
£34,192 - £34,894 / £35,717 - £38,207 pro rata
£18.74 - £19.12 / £19.57 - £20.94 per hour
The above amounts include shift and Distant Islands Allowance. You will be reporting to the Team Manager (Family Support). Your working pattern is 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday, with work at other hours as required by the service. We are happy to talk flexible working, where possible.
The purpose of this role is providing intensive support to children and their families, maintaining children safely within their families, care placement, community, mainstream school or alternative education and work closely to support young people returning to the community from residential care out-with Orkney.
Qualities required of the successful applicant are a non-judgmental attitude, acceptance of others, confidence, good communication skills and a sense of humour. You should be able to travel efficiently and effectively between work locations within Orkney to meet the operational requirements of the Service.
The necessary qualification, experience and skills required for this role are:
- For appointment at grade E: Applicants should have a good general standard of education, including literacy and numeracy skills, and are required to achieve an HNC Social Care and SVQ 3 Social Services (Children and Young People) within 3 years of appointment.
- For appointment at or progression to grade F: Applicants should hold an HNC Social Care and SVQ 3 Social Services (Children and Young People).
- Have knowledge of Children (Scotland) Act 1995 and other legislation and policies pertaining to children, and have knowledge of child development and attachment theory.
- Applicants must have experience of working with Children and Families, in education, social work, social pedagogy or Health.
This post involves a contractual requirement to participate in a standby rota covering out of hours. This post is a regulated role with children, and requires Level 2 Disclosure with PVG scheme membership.
For a discussion about the role, contact Alanna Burns, Service Manager at alanna.burns@orkney.gov.uk or on 01856 873535.
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 3 May 2026, with shortlisting taking place 5 May 2026 and interviews are scheduled for week commencing 11 May 2026.
We would welcome your feedback on our recruitment process.
Family Support Worker - ORK10227 in Kirkwall employer: Orkney Islands Council
Contact Detail:
Orkney Islands Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Family Support Worker - ORK10227 in Kirkwall
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of family support work, especially those already working in Orkney. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of child development and relevant legislation. We want you to show off your understanding of the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 and how it applies to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your personality! The job description mentions a sense of humour and good communication skills. Be yourself during interviews and let your passion for supporting families shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always here to help if you have any questions about the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Family Support Worker - ORK10227 in Kirkwall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Family Support Worker role. We want to see how you can bring your unique qualities to our team!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since good communication is key in this role, use your application to demonstrate your ability to convey ideas clearly. Whether it's through your cover letter or CV, let us see your personality shine through!
Highlight Relevant Experience: Don’t forget to mention any experience you have working with children and families. We’re looking for those who understand the challenges and joys of this work, so share your stories and insights!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Orkney Islands Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 and other relevant legislation. Familiarise yourself with child development and attachment theory, as these are crucial for the Family Support Worker role. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the position.
✨Show Your Soft Skills
This role requires a non-judgmental attitude and good communication skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated these qualities. Be ready to share how you’ve effectively supported children and families in challenging situations, as this will highlight your suitability for the job.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since the job involves working flexible hours and travelling between locations, be prepared to discuss your availability and how you manage your time. Share any experiences where you've successfully adapted to changing circumstances or worked outside of standard hours.
✨Bring Your Sense of Humour
A sense of humour can go a long way in this role! Think of light-hearted anecdotes that demonstrate your ability to connect with children and families. This will not only make you memorable but also show that you can handle the emotional demands of the job while keeping a positive outlook.