At a Glance
- Tasks: Support youth clubs by providing cover and developing engaging activities.
- Company: Orkney Islands Council, committed to equal opportunities.
- Benefits: Earn £16.47 per hour with comprehensive training provided.
- Other info: Flexible hours and opportunities for personal growth in youth work.
- Why this job: Make a difference in young people's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience working with children and young people in informal settings.
The predicted salary is between 16.47 - 16.47 £ per hour.
Relief General Youth Worker for Orkney Mainland Youth Clubs and Isles Youth Clubs. Hours are offered on an as and when required basis at £16.47 per hour (including Distant Islands Allowance).
You will be reporting to a Community Learning and Development Officer. This is a relief position, for inclusion on a list of people available for offers of work as and when required. Youth Clubs meet at various locations, mainly during term time. The role of Relief General Youth Worker is to provide cover in the event of another member of staff being sick or on leave.
If you are keen to get involved in youth work or wish to further develop your current experience in supporting and working with young people, then we would be delighted to hear from you. A comprehensive training programme and an excellent rate of pay are available to successful applicants.
The role of the General Youth Worker is to provide support to the Senior Youth Worker in developing a varied weekly programme of activities, in consultation with club members. You should have experience and an understanding of working with children and young people in an informal setting.
This post is a regulated role with children and requires Level 2 Disclosure with PVG scheme membership.
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 2 August 2026.
For a discussion about the role, contact Richard Smith at richard.smith@orkney.gov.uk or on 01856 873535 extension 2424.
Orkney Islands Council is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of age, gender, race or ethnicity, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity status or gender reassignment status.
Relief General Youth Worker - ORK10596 in Kirkwall employer: Orkney Islands Council
Orkney Islands Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment for those embarking on a career in social care. With a focus on employee growth through practical experience and training towards an SVQ 2 in Social Services and Healthcare, staff are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of adults within the community. The council promotes flexible working patterns and values diversity, making it an ideal place for individuals seeking rewarding employment in a caring profession.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Relief General Youth Worker - ORK10596 in Kirkwall
✨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 Orkney Islands 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 Relief General Youth Worker - ORK10596 in Kirkwall
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 Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands 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 Relief General Youth Worker - ORK10596 role at Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands Council that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
