Job Description
3 Month Contract With A Local Authority
Job Purpose
To provide a statutory social work–related service to young people who are care leavers aged 18–25 years, ensuring that all duties under relevant legislation are met. The role involves working with eligible, relevant, former relevant, and qualifying care leavers on a case management basis, supporting them to transition successfully from care to independent adulthood.
Key Responsibilities
* Act as Personal Advisor for allocated care leavers aged 18–25 in accordance with the Children (Leaving Care) Act and associated statutory guidance.
* Manage a caseload of young people, ensuring statutory duties, visits, and reviews are completed within required timescales.
* Coordinate, prepare, implement, and regularly review Pathway Plans that are young person–centred, outcome focused, and responsive to changing needs.
* Support young people to develop independence skills, including accommodation, budgeting, financial management, and daily living skills.
* Promote and support engagement in education, employment, and training, working proactively to address barriers to participation.
* Provide practical support, advice, advocacy, and emotional support to young people as they transition to adulthood.
* Work in partnership with internal and external agencies including housing, health, education, training providers, and voluntary organisations to deliver coordinated support.
* Advocate on behalf of young people to ensure their views, wishes, and feelings inform all planning and decision-making.
* Identify and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns, escalating risks in line with safeguarding procedures.
* Maintain accurate, timely, and high-quality case records in accordance with organisational policies and statutory requirements.
* Monitor progress and outcomes, reviewing plans and interventions to promote positive long-term outcomes.
* Participate in supervision, training, and continuous professional development.
* Promote equality, diversity, and anti-discriminatory practice in all aspects of work.
Requirements
* A relevant qualification in social care, youth work, education, health, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
* Experience of working with care leavers, looked-after children, or vulnerable young people.
* Knowledge of leaving care legislation and statutory guidance, or a willingness to develop this knowledge.
* Ability to manage a caseload effectively and work on a case management basis.
* Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage young people positively.
* Understanding of the challenges faced by care leavers transitioning to adulthood.
* Ability to work collaboratively with partner agencies and professionals.
* Commitment to safeguarding, equality, and anti-oppressive practice.
* Flexible and resilient approach to meeting the needs of young people.