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- Tasks: Support student welfare, manage cases, and coordinate safeguarding processes.
- Company: The University of Sheffield, a diverse and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive leave, flexible working, generous pension, and retail discounts.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in student welfare and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 32080 - 36636 £ per year.
The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world‑class university. We offer a range of benefits:
- Highly competitive annual leave entitlement, with the ability to purchase more
- Generous pensions scheme
- Flexible working opportunities
- Commitment to development and well‑being
- Wide range of retail discounts
Overview
The Safeguarding and Welfare team is responsible for safeguarding, preventing and reporting activities, oversight of student cases and procedures relating to sexual violence and harassment, and coordination of processes such as the Risk Assessment Panel. The Safeguarding and Welfare Officers support the team by managing caseloads, liaising with staff and students, and providing administrative support.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Manage a caseload, referring staff and students to relevant processes and policies within the Safeguarding and Welfare team and across the University, including meeting with students to discuss their support needs as required.
- Act as a Sexual Violence Support Officer (SVSO), supporting students who have experienced sexual violence or harassment.
- Support the Section Lead and Safeguarding and Welfare Managers in managing cases as directed.
- Work with the team Administrator to triage information and cases into the team.
- Prepare agendas and write minutes as required.
- Lead the capture of feedback and data, and assist with coordinating service reports.
- Create and maintain information relating to the Safeguarding and Welfare team.
- Provide support for complex cases and events, including support to students in the event of a student death or critical incident.
- Support the administration of key training for staff and students, including consent training.
- Liaise with other departments to ensure support for students, e.g., Student Mental Health, Counselling and Therapies Service, University Health Service, Residence Life, and Dyslexia and Disability Support Services.
- Ensure accurate record keeping and appropriate storage of information.
- Support the team’s delivery by creating materials and processes and providing finance and recruitment support when needed.
- Maintain a flexible approach to duties as the role may evolve to reflect changing needs of the team.
- Any other duties commensurate with the grade of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role’s criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply.
Essential Criteria
- Experience in working in an environment supporting the welfare of students or young people.
- Experience in handling sensitive information and situations and managing responses in difficult circumstances.
- Knowledge and understanding of current issues and context within higher education.
- Experience of triaging information and delivering a high level of customer service.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Experience of preparing agendas and minutes.
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to demonstrate a high standard of professional administration.
- Confident and professional manner and ability to act with discretion and diplomacy.
- Aware and understanding of safeguarding, prevent and other related regulation, legislation and policies.
- Ability to interpret information and know when to take initiative, when to escalate or refer to other colleagues.
- Aware of managing or assessing risk.
Other Details
- Grade: 6
- Salary: £32,080 – £36,636
- Work arrangement: Full time
- Line manager: Section Lead – Safeguarding and Welfare
- EEO Statement: We are a Disability Confident Leader and a University of Sheffield International Office of Equal Opportunity.
Safeguarding and Welfare Officer in Sheffield employer: The University of Sheffield
Contact Detail:
The University of Sheffield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Safeguarding and Welfare Officer in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Sheffield on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and the team, plus it shows our genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching safeguarding practices and current issues in higher education. We want to show that we’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to welfare support and handling sensitive situations. Mock interviews with friends can help us feel more confident and articulate during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the University of Sheffield team.
We think you need these skills to ace Safeguarding and Welfare Officer in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Safeguarding and Welfare Officer. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, ensure your written application reflects your ability to convey information clearly and professionally. Don't forget to proofread for any typos or errors!
Highlight Relevant Experience: Share specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your experience in supporting students or young people. This will help us see how you can contribute to our team right from the start.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Sheffield
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of a Safeguarding and Welfare Officer. Understand the processes related to safeguarding, sexual violence support, and how to manage sensitive situations. This will show that you’re not just interested in the role but also prepared to handle its challenges.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your past experiences in supporting students or young people. Highlight specific examples where you've handled sensitive information or managed difficult circumstances. This will demonstrate your capability and understanding of the role's demands.
✨Communication is Key
Since excellent communication skills are essential, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you would communicate with students and staff, especially in challenging situations. This will help you convey your professionalism and approachability.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the team dynamics, current challenges, or ongoing projects within the Safeguarding and Welfare team. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the university is the right fit for you.