Job Description
Family Contact Worker
* Location: Belthorne (City-wide travel required)
* Job Type: Full-time
* Salary: Grade 4
Join our dedicated Family Contact Service team within the Children and Families sector. We are seeking a Family Contact Worker to facilitate, supervise, and observe court-directed family time between looked-after children and their families. This role ensures safe, supportive, and structured contact sessions and involves offering parenting advice, completing detailed observations, and contributing to assessments of family needs and risks.
Day-to-day of the role:
* Supervision of Family Time:
* Facilitate and supervise contact sessions as directed by the court.
* Ensure contact takes place according to agreed plans and in a safe, child-focused environment.
* Support children and families during contact, addressing emotional and behavioural issues sensitively.
* Observation and Reporting:
* Complete detailed and accurate observations of contact sessions.
* Maintain comprehensive Child Contact Records to inform the wider team.
* Monitor and report on action plans, raising concerns with the appropriate authority.
* Assessment and Guidance:
* Contribute to ongoing assessments using the recognised Assessment Framework.
* Offer practical advice and guidance to parents regarding parenting and child development.
* Work collaboratively with social workers and other professionals to support family outcomes.
* Administrative Duties:
* Arrange and service meetings related to contact sessions.
* Prepare documentation, take notes, and produce minutes as required.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
* Experience working with children and families.
* Understanding of child development and child protection procedures.
* Familiarity with social work processes, especially those related to court proceedings.
* Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
* Enhanced DBS check with Children's and Adult's Barred List (or willingness to apply).
* Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
* Desirable: Knowledge of Manchester City Council’s procedures and values, and experience contributing to assessments under the Assessment Framework.
Key Competencies:
* Teamwork: Collaborates effectively to deliver the best outcomes.
* Customer Service: Puts children and families at the heart of service delivery.
* Delivery: Maintains high standards in service provision.
* Change: Adapts to improve services and use resources efficiently.
* Pride in Manchester: Demonstrates commitment to the community and city values.
Skills:
* Communication: Listens attentively and communicates clearly and appropriately.
* Planning & Organising: Manages time and resources effectively.
* Problem Solving: Diagnoses issues and develops practical solutions.
* Administrative: Prepares documentation and records with accuracy and detail.