At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Independent Visitor Scheme by recruiting and guiding volunteers for children in care.
- Company: Join Wiltshire Council, a friendly workplace with a strong commitment to inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working model, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Embrace a culture of respect and positive relationships in a dynamic team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children in care while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 4 in child development or relevant experience with young people.
The predicted salary is between 31537 - 33699 € per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen within our dedicated Voice and Participation service for an Independent Visitor Scheme Support Worker to join them! The Independent Visitor Scheme (IV) recruits and engages volunteers on behalf of Wiltshire Council to serve as Independent Visitors. This service operates independently with a statutory function. Our Independent Visitors provide guidance, companionship, and support to children in care who have been referred to the scheme.
In this role, you will support the operation of the Wiltshire Independent Visitor Scheme by recruiting, assessing and providing ongoing support to Independent Visitors. You will play a key part in implementing a thorough recruitment and selection process for new volunteers, ensuring that only the most suitable candidates are selected. You will be responsible for addressing safeguarding concerns and ensuring that safeguarding policies and procedures are embedded in both volunteer practice and volunteer management.
Our ideal candidate will hold an NVQ Level 4 in child development, counselling, or youth work, or be able to demonstrate the necessary skills required for the role. You will have significant experience working in a related field involving young people and families, with a strong understanding of the needs of children in care and those with complex needs. A strong and up to date knowledge of relevant legislation and guidance related to working with and safeguarding children will be essential.
Why us? Wiltshire Council is a friendly, welcoming place to work, with a 'One Council' ethos. Our hybrid working model means office staff are on site for at least half their hours, community-based staff carry out at least half their admin time in a workplace, and customer‑facing roles work entirely from their service location. We are committed to creating a workplace where positive relationships thrive and everyone feels engaged, supported and able to do their best. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying or harassment. Everyone is expected to promote a culture of inclusion, dignity, trust and respect, guided by our vision and Our Identity.
Contact details: Jesnie Barry, Independent Visitor Scheme Manager, at Jesnie.Barry@wiltshire.gov.uk. Please ensure to regularly check your spam or junk folder for any communication from us regarding the status of your application.
Application criteria: Please download and read the role description and person specification carefully before you apply. We understand that AI tools can support you in preparing job applications. However, we value authenticity and would encourage you to ensure your submission genuinely reflects your own experiences, skills, and motivations.
While we welcome applications from job seekers who require skilled worker sponsorship, we are not able to issue a defined certificate of sponsorship due to limitations in our sponsorship capacity. We are firmly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and to the principles of inclusion and diversity in both employment and the delivery of services.
Statement of commitment to equality and inclusion: Disability Confident Employer.
Application process: Wiltshire Council does not accept unsolicited CVs or candidate details from recruitment agencies that are not appointed under a current, valid contract or approved supplier arrangement (including through our neutral vendor, Comensura). Submission of unsolicited CVs or candidate details to the Council, whether directly or to individual employees, will not be considered as an introduction and will not create any obligation on the Council to pay any fees. If a candidate whose details have been submitted speculatively is subsequently appointed through a compliant route, no agency fee will be payable in respect of the unsolicited submission. Agencies wishing to work with the Council must do so only via our approved procurement processes and neutral vendor arrangements.
Wiltshire Independent Visitor Scheme Support Worker employer: Wiltshire
Wiltshire Council is an excellent employer that fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment, prioritising the well-being of its staff and the communities they serve. With a commitment to employee growth and a hybrid working model, staff can enjoy a balanced work-life while contributing to meaningful initiatives like the Independent Visitor Scheme. The council's dedication to safeguarding and promoting diversity ensures that all employees feel valued and empowered to make a positive impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Wiltshire Independent Visitor Scheme Support Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Wiltshire Council and their values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events related to child welfare. This can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to safeguarding and working with children in care. We recommend using the STAR method to structure your answers – it really helps to showcase your experience!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Wiltshire Council team.
We think you need these skills to ace Wiltshire Independent Visitor Scheme Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start writing your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what the role involves and the skills required. This will help us tailor your application to show how you fit the bill!
Showcase Your Experience:When you're writing about your experience, be specific! Highlight any relevant work you've done with children in care or similar roles. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for, so don’t hold back on those details.
Be Authentic:While it’s tempting to use AI tools for help, we really value authenticity. Make sure your application reflects your true self, experiences, and motivations. We want to get to know the real you, so let that shine through!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right place. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our team there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the relevant legislation and guidance related to safeguarding children. Familiarise yourself with the needs of children in care and those with complex needs, as this will show your understanding of the role and its responsibilities.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your experience with young people and families. Highlight any relevant qualifications, like your NVQ Level 4, and how they relate to the skills needed for the Independent Visitor Scheme Support Worker position.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Inclusion
Since Wiltshire Council values a culture of inclusion and respect, be ready to discuss how you've contributed to positive relationships in previous roles. Share examples of how you've worked collaboratively with others to support vulnerable individuals.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the Independent Visitor Scheme and the council's approach to safeguarding. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the organisation aligns with your values.
