At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide essential admin support to a team dedicated to children and families.
- Company: Portsmouth City Council, committed to safeguarding and supporting families.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in a meaningful role with a focus on community impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's lives while developing your administrative skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in admin roles and proficiency in Microsoft 365 required.
The predicted salary is between 20790 - 25410 £ per year.
This post sits within the Family Support and Safeguarding Central Locality Team in Children and Families Services at Portsmouth City Council.
It gives administrative support to a team working directly with children and families, including minute-taking, data entry, enquiries and financial tasks.
The role is initially office-based, five days a week, and handles safeguarding concerns and sensitive information.
A detailed personal statement against the job profile is essential, along with the right to work in the UK.
- What the job involves
- Minute-taking for complex meetings, such as strategy meetings and group supervisions
- Data entry into systems including MOSAIC
- Handling service performance data
- Managing post and document scanning
- Responding to telephone enquiries, including safeguarding concerns
- Booking services such as translators, accommodation and hire cars
- Financial tasks: raising purchase orders and reconciling the purchase card
- Word processing, spreadsheets and presentations
- Supporting managers with reports, diary management and typing
- Ensuring business continuity across the department
Experience
- Experience in administrative roles
Skills & knowledge
- Shorthand or minute-taking skills to take concise notes
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Teams)
- Excellent literacy and numeracy
- Confident communicator
- Knowledge of data protection and safeguarding
- Maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information
- Checks & eligibility
- DBS check at Standard or Enhanced level before any offer
- Right to work in the UK
- Other
- Customer focus with a commitment to high standards of service
- Detail-oriented, organised and able to prioritise effectively
- Explanation of any gaps in career history within the last 5 years
- Nice to have
- Experience within children's or young people's services
Business Support Officer - Central Locality in Sunderland employer: Portsmouth
Slim Chickens Portsmouth is an exceptional employer, recognised as a Sunday Times Best Big Company to Work For in 2025 and 2026. With a vibrant work culture that prioritises integrity, hard work, and personal growth, employees enjoy generous benefits including discounts, flexible working options, and career advancement opportunities within a supportive team environment. Join us in creating memorable guest experiences while thriving in a fun and motivating atmosphere!
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Support Officer - Central Locality in Sunderland
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Portsmouth!
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If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
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Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Portsmouth.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Support Officer - Central Locality in Sunderland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Portsmouth. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Portsmouth and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Portsmouth. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Portsmouth's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Portsmouth.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Portsmouth will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Portsmouth and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
