At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide emotional and practical support to families of children with life-limiting conditions.
- Company: Join a compassionate organisation dedicated to supporting families in need.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of families during challenging times.
- Qualifications: Experience with children and families, and a UK driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 26519 - 26519 € per year.
Salary £26,519.64 per annum (pro‑rate of full‑time equivalent £32,893.39)
Job Details
- Contract type: Permanent
- Hours: Part time, 30 hours per week (predominantly 9am‑5pm, Monday‑Friday)
- Location: Surrey, north‑west London and south‑west London (hospices, homes and hospitals)
About the role
Family Support Workers are the frontline of our care, providing emotional and practical support to families of children with life‑limiting conditions or who have been bereaved. They manage a caseload of end‑of‑life and bereaved families, checking in regularly through phone calls, home visits and emergency interventions.
- Act as the on‑site duty FSW, welcoming families and managing the Family Support Line.
- Assist with support groups and family events.
- Provide immediate emotional support in crisis situations.
- Visit newly bereaved families in their homes.
- Support families staying at the Christopher’s hospice.
- Travel to hospice, hospital, family homes as required.
- Deliver culturally sensitive care and build connections across diverse backgrounds.
- Safeguard families at risk of harm.
- Act as ambassador for Shooting Star’s Specialist Bereavement Service and support staff learning.
Qualifications and Experience
- UK driving licence.
- Experience working with children and families facing hardship or complex needs.
- Calm, positive manner with empathy and professional boundaries.
- Passionate about supporting children and families.
Benefits
- NHS Pension Scheme (or stakeholder scheme) up to 7% employer contribution.
- 27 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, increasing with service.
- 2‑week paid sabbatical after 5, 10 and 15 years’ service.
- Enhanced maternity, adoption, and paternity leave pay.
- Flexible working arrangements.
- Reimbursement for professional membership fees.
- Eye care.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Occupational Health.
- Mindfulness sessions.
- Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Mental Health First Aiders.
Safeguarding and Equality
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to equal opportunities. All applicants are considered under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Employment is subject to satisfactory references, a DBS check and completion of our training.
Family Support Worker employer: Shooting-Star-Children
As a Family Support Worker with us, you will join a compassionate team dedicated to providing vital emotional and practical support to families during their most challenging times. Our work culture prioritises empathy and professional development, offering flexible working arrangements, generous leave policies, and opportunities for growth through training and support initiatives. Located in the heart of Surrey and London, you will have the unique advantage of working in diverse environments, making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families facing life-limiting conditions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Family Support Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of family support work. Attend local events or online webinars where you can meet professionals and learn about their experiences. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to emotional support and crisis management. Think about your past experiences and how they relate to the role. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, let them know why you care about supporting families facing hardship. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to this important work. We believe authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we often have exclusive opportunities listed there that you won’t find anywhere else. Let’s get you on the path to becoming a Family Support Worker!
We think you need these skills to ace Family Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting families shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in helping children and families facing tough times, so share any relevant experiences that highlight this.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the Family Support Worker role. Use keywords from the job description and relate your skills and experiences directly to what we’re looking for. This shows us you’ve done your homework!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that are easy to read. Avoid jargon and focus on communicating your qualifications and experiences effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shooting-Star-Children
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Family Support Worker. Familiarise yourself with the emotional and practical support aspects, as well as the importance of safeguarding families. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with the role.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
In this line of work, empathy is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've provided emotional support to families or children in need. Highlighting your calm and positive manner will demonstrate that you can handle sensitive situations effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage crises. Think about potential situations you might face as a Family Support Worker and how you would respond. This shows your proactive approach and readiness for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the support systems in place for Family Support Workers or how the organisation fosters a culturally sensitive environment. This not only shows your interest but also your commitment to the values of the organisation.
