<div><p>Children and Families Advisor</p><p>Permanent, Part Time – 3 days per week (22.2 hours per week)</p><p>£26,284 up to £33,256 per annum (full time equivalent)</p><p>Location: Colchester. Working style: Fixed-base worker.</p><h3>Opportunity</h3><p>This key role ensures the Single Point of Entry is accessible by professionals, members of the public and families. Advisers work with a senior team to respond promptly to concerns and risks, delivering safe and efficient support through robust information, advice, and guidance or onward progression to the appropriate team.</p><h3>Accountabilities</h3><ul><li>Work flexibly and collaboratively across structural boundaries to support key outcomes.</li><li>Deliver best possible outcomes through exemplar behaviour in line with the organisation’s values.</li><li>Identify and manage risk, including health and safety and business continuity.</li><li>Provide accurate information, advice and guidance via telephone or email, prioritising referrals when necessary to safeguard children.</li><li>Maintain safe and lawful recording in accordance with data protection legislation.</li><li>Act as a link adviser to a thematic area or geographical area, contributing knowledge of local services for the Hub.</li><li>Adapt to workflow and demand, recognising that duties may change to meet changing circumstances.</li></ul><h3>Experience You Will Bring</h3><p>Essential</p><ul><li>Knowledge and understanding of current national and local safeguarding legislation and procedures, including the Effective Support for Children and Families in Essex guidance, the Children’s Act and Working Together Guidance.</li><li>General level of education including English at GCSE grade A‑C, or demonstrably equivalent abilities.</li><li>Experience of communicating by telephone and electronically recording information promptly and in adherence with data protection legislation.</li></ul><p>Desirable</p><ul><li>Understanding of high-quality customer care and information provision, and an appreciation of potential barriers and challenges for hard-to-reach groups.</li><li>High level of inter‑personal, negotiation and communication skills, engaging at appropriate levels with a variety of audiences.</li></ul><h3>Why Essex?</h3><p>As one of the largest and most dynamic local authorities, Essex offers a stimulating public service environment. With flexible working options and a focus on innovation, Essex is an ideal place to develop your career or contribute to the local community.</p><h3>EEO Statements</h3><p>Essex County Council is a Disability Confident Leader. We interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum requirements of the job and all veterans and care leavers who meet the minimum requirements of the role. Reasonable adjustments are made throughout the recruitment process.</p></div>