At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children and families with health advice and assessments in various settings.
- Company: Join a dedicated Public Health Nursing team in Somerset focused on community wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, professional development, and staff discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's health while working in a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with children and families is preferred; empathy and teamwork are essential.
- Other info: Salary ranges from £16,626 to £24,853 depending on hours; driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 16626 - 18640 £ per year.
Department: Public Health
Working pattern: Part Time
Location: Somerset
About the job
Some key information
- Two positions available, 22.2 hours per week in Glastonbury or 29.6 hours per week in Highbridge.
- 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata).
- Permanent role.
What will I be doing?
We’re working to improve the lives of children and families in Somerset – and you’ll be a key part of that. You will be joining our Public Health Nursing service which is comprised of teams of Health Visitors, School Nurses (Specialist Community Public Health Nurses), community staff nurses, and assistant practitioners.
Your day-to-day work will involve:
- Working directly with children and families in a range of settings to deliver core and targeted health support and advice on an individual basis or through delivering group sessions.
- Supporting the Health Visiting and School nurse teams in completing holistic assessments of the health and wellbeing of families as well as assessing the ongoing physical, social and emotional development of children.
- Fulfilling the requirements of the Healthy Child Programme across the whole 0-19 year age range.
- Working closely with our Health and Social Care colleagues, contributing towards multi-disciplinary work and assessments.
What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?
We offer ongoing support, training and guidance to help you be the best you can be. But it will really help if you:
- Have experience of working with children and families.
- Are able to work on your own initiative and as part of a team.
- Are able to demonstrate your dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of children and families.
- Are caring, empathetic and friendly.
Previous experience working in the community and home visiting is desirable.
We’re proud to be here for the people of Somerset. And that means everyone in Somerset. An important part of this is ensuring that we are as diverse and inclusive as the people and communities we serve.
We welcome applications from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences to enrich our team. You can always contact the hiring manager for a chat if there’s anything you want to talk about before you apply.
What\’s in it for me?
In Somerset we have continued to re-shape the way the Public Health Nursing teams work and our experience gained throughout the pandemic, has enabled us to build on innovative practices to keep delivering the Healthy Child Programme, holistically meeting family’s needs. This has been achieved by working collaboratively with our partner agencies and building community capacity.
We are a team with a strong Public Health Focus committed to improving the health and well-being of our children and families in Somerset using good leadership skills and a sound knowledge base in safeguarding and child protection processes.
- We promote a healthy work-life balance and offer flexible working arrangements wherever possible.
- iHV professional membership.
- Prioritised superb Safeguarding, Clinical, and Restorative supervision.
- The opportunity to fulfil your leadership role within the team.
- Continuing Professional Development opportunities.
- Generous annual leave allowance, with the opportunity to purchase additional leave.
- Staff discounts in gyms.
- Employee Assistance for the times you may need some support and a variety of employee wellbeing services.
- Auto enrolment onto our generous Pension Scheme and optional pension enhancement through our Additional Voluntary Contribution scheme.
- A Flexible Benefits Scheme via salary sacrifice to obtain a cycle for work and health screenings.
- My Staff Shop offering discounts in shops, online shopping, restaurants, cinema tickets, insurance benefits and more.
Anything else I should know?
The salary for this post is £16,626 to £18,640 per annum for 22.2 hours per week, or £22,168 to £24,853 per annum for 29.6 hours per week.
If you want to get to know our team, come and visit us or learn more about the role, we’d love to hear from you. Please contact: Cheryl Curtis via email at cheryl.curtis@somerset.gov.uk
Applicants must have a full valid driving licence and have access to a car for work. If necessary, adjustments can be considered in line with the Equality Act 2010.
If you have everything you need, just hit the apply button. We can’t wait to hear from you!
DBS information
This post requires a criminal background check via the Disclosure procedure.
Supporting documents and information
Please read any attached documents before applying for this job
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Assistant Practitioner employer: Somerset County Council
Contact Detail:
Somerset County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Practitioner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Healthy Child Programme and its core principles. Understanding this framework will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of children and families.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in public health or community nursing. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet Health Visitors and School Nurses, as they can provide insights into the role and may even refer you to opportunities within their teams.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience working with children and families in detail. Think of specific examples that highlight your ability to work independently and as part of a team, as these are key qualities they are looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out to the hiring manager, Cheryl Curtis, for an informal chat about the role. This shows initiative and gives you a chance to ask questions that can help you tailor your approach when applying.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Practitioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Assistant Practitioner position. Understand the key responsibilities and the skills required, such as working with children and families, and being part of a multi-disciplinary team.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any work with children and families. Emphasise your ability to work independently and as part of a team, as well as your dedication to improving health and wellbeing.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for public health and your commitment to supporting families. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate how you meet the qualifications listed in the job description.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application shows attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Somerset County Council
✨Show Your Passion for Public Health
Make sure to express your genuine interest in improving the health and wellbeing of children and families. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your dedication to public health, especially in community settings.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves working closely with Health Visitors and School Nurses, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated in a team. Highlight your ability to contribute to multi-disciplinary work and assessments.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle real-life situations involving children and families. Think of specific scenarios where you provided support or advice, and be ready to explain your approach.
✨Emphasise Your Empathy and Caring Nature
The role requires a caring and friendly attitude. Be sure to convey your empathetic approach during the interview. Share stories that illustrate your ability to connect with families and understand their needs.