At a Glance
- Tasks: Support families and children to improve relationships and educational engagement.
- Company: Join a diverse team dedicated to empowering families in West Lothian.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, supportive team environment, and shift allowances.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while working creatively and collaboratively.
- Qualifications: HNC or SVQ Level III in Social Care required; strong communication skills essential.
- Other info: Evening and weekend work required; must join the PVG Scheme.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
We are keen to employ a diverse workforce that reflects the people of Scotland. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently under-represented, including people with disabilities, those from minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for Family Support Workers to join our integrated Inclusion and Support Service which brings together Education and Social Policy teams to support children, young people and families who require additional support.
The post holder will embed the values and principles of Getting It right for Every Child in order to ensure that services work together to improve outcomes for the children and young people of West Lothian and their families. We aim to empower families to support each other and build on their strengths.
Each family support worker will work creatively with a caseload of children/young people and their parents/carers to support them to improve relationships, build resilience, improve educational engagement and improve on the strengths they have to overcome the difficulties they face.
The work is challenging and fulfilling and the successful applicants will join a motivated and supportive team.
You’ll bring excellent relationship-building, communication, and organisational skills, as well as be able to work on your own initiative and collaboratively with partners.
An HNC or an SVQ Level III in Social Care or other relevant qualification and experience is required. This post will require the post holder to work flexibly out with office hours, including evenings and weekends. Shift allowances apply for working out with council core hours.
This post is considered Regulated Work with children and/or protected adults under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scotland Act 2007. From 28 February 2011 preferred candidates will be required to join the PVG Scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme update check prior to a formal offer of employment being made by West Lothian Council.
Family Support Worker x 2, Various Locations, 493.44 - WEL09254 employer: West Lothian Council
Contact Detail:
West Lothian Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Family Support Worker x 2, Various Locations, 493.44 - WEL09254
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the principles of 'Getting It Right for Every Child' (GIRFEC). Understanding this framework will not only help you align your approach with the organisation's values but also demonstrate your commitment to improving outcomes for children and families.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of social care and education. Attend local community events or workshops related to family support services. Building connections can provide valuable insights and may even lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your relationship-building skills during any informal interactions, such as networking events or community meetings. Being personable and approachable can leave a lasting impression on potential employers and colleagues.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your experience working with diverse groups, particularly those from under-represented backgrounds. Highlighting your understanding of the challenges faced by these communities can set you apart as a candidate who is empathetic and well-suited for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Family Support Worker x 2, Various Locations, 493.44 - WEL09254
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Family Support Worker. Highlight key skills such as relationship-building, communication, and organisational skills that are essential for the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your relevant experience and qualifications, such as an HNC or SVQ Level III in Social Care. Emphasise any previous work with children, young people, or families, and showcase your ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your personal experiences and values with the principles of 'Getting It Right for Every Child'. Explain why you are passionate about supporting families and how your background aligns with the goals of the integrated Inclusion and Support Service.
Proofread and Submit: Before submitting your application, proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your application is complete and that you have included all necessary information, including your availability for flexible working hours.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Lothian Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Family Support Worker. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the role, particularly in relation to supporting children and families.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Family Support Worker, excellent communication is key. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively by providing clear and concise answers. Use examples from your past experiences where you successfully built relationships with families or collaborated with other professionals.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility
This role requires working outside of standard office hours. Be ready to discuss your availability and willingness to work evenings and weekends. Share any previous experiences where you had to adapt your schedule to meet the needs of families or clients.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Inclusion
The organisation values diversity and inclusion. Be prepared to talk about your understanding of these principles and how you have applied them in your previous roles. Discuss any experiences you have had working with under-represented groups or individuals from diverse backgrounds.