Contract: Permanent
Cumberland Council is an ambitious and forward-thinking authority dedicated to shaping a better future for our communities. At the core of our vision is a commitment to our people, with health and well-being being integral to everything we do, underscoring every initiative and ensuring we provide unparalleled support for all.
Together, let's shape a community that's as dynamic and inclusive as our landscape. Be a part of the transformation!
#Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people? Join us where we provide vital care and support to young people and their families, helping them navigate challenges related to attachment, trauma, social exclusion, and emotional well-being.
In this role, you'll be at the heart of our mission to deliver high-quality, meaningful care to young people. You'll work to improve outcomes and support their journey through care, creating a safe and nurturing environment where they can thrive.
Collaborating with a team to provide personalised, evidence-based care tailored to the needs of each young person and their family.
Organising and engaging in activities that encourage development and foster a sense of belonging, both within and outside the home.
Building strong, professional relationships with children, young people, and their families, offering emotional and practical support to those facing social, emotional, or behavioural challenges.
This is an opportunity to be a trusted advocate, a caring presence, and a positive force in the lives of young people during critical moments of their development.
If you're ready to make a difference and help shape brighter futures, we'd love to hear from you!
Cumberland Council is proud to hold an Ofsted rating of 'Good' for our Children's Services, demonstrating our dedication and strong commitment to providing high-quality services for children and families. Ofsted recognised that staff unanimously report a 'real buzz about working in Cumberland' and that they feel 'energised, valued and listened to', observing that 'leaders have established a strong Cumberland identity that staff can be proud of'.
We believe in the power of these values to drive positive change and shape a better future for our communities. Your commitment to these principles will be instrumental in delivering services that are vital to the well-being and prosperity of our residents.
gov.uk for an informal chat prior to your application.
As a real living wage paying employer we offer competitive rates of pay
Our pay scales are nationally agreed and come with a national annual pay review*
A range of allowances to recognise times where you're available out of hours if we need you, or where you take on extra responsibilities beyond your role.
*In accordance with the National Joint Council for Local Government Services
Pension
Opportunity to join a generous defined benefit pension scheme to secure your future (most employees are part of the Local Government Pension Scheme)
Opportunity to boost your pension with Additional Pension Contributions which will increase your annual defined benefit amount
Opportunity to build a defined contribution pot on the side of your defined benefit pension through Shared Cost Additional Voluntary Contributions (facilitated by AVC Wise).
Holidays
~25 days holiday per year when you start, rising to 31 days holiday per year after 5 years of service
~8 public holidays
~ The option to purchase up to 2 weeks additional leave and spread the cost over 12 months
Flexible Working
Flexible working arrangements including the ability to work remotely from home supporting a culture that fits around you*
Access to an online learning portal offering more than 150 courses
Opportunity to study professional qualifications to help you get the certifications you need for your role or to advance your career.
*Deals and Discounts
Money off your local gym including Better, Newfield Health, The Gym Group and Lifestyle Fitness
Various discount schemes including RAC roadside recovery discount and money off local supportive businesses
Tusker car leasing salary sacrifice scheme as well as an esteem car loan scheme for essential car users
Spec Savers eyecare voucher
Employee Assistance & Support
In house staff support networks
Employee assistance programme offering mental health support
Our interview process can accommodate both in-person and virtual formats, with tailored options discussed upon invitation to the interview stage. Preferred for virtual interviews is the use of Microsoft Teams, currently available for new users at no cost. DBS Checks
Conducting Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks is integral to our commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for our staff and the communities we serve. These checks play a crucial role in safeguarding, ensuring that individuals with appropriate qualifications and character are entrusted with roles where they may have access to children and vulnerable people. By prioritising DBS checks, we uphold the highest standards of integrity, reinforcing our dedication to the well-being and trust of those we engage with.
This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 and requires an enhanced DBS check with a Children's Barred List check.
Please note this role involves working in regulated activity with Children. It is an offence for people who are barred from working in regulated activity to apply for roles that require them to work unsupervised with Children.
At Cumberland Council, we are dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce, striving to mirror the rich tapestry of the communities we proudly serve. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are devoted in fostering an inclusive, supportive culture that embraces and appreciates our unique differences.
As a proud Disability Confident Employer, we ensure that applicants with disabilities, meeting the essential criteria for this position, are guaranteed an interview as part of our commitment to equal opportunities. Your diverse perspectives and talents contribute to our collective success.
We're also an Age Friendly Employer, meaning we commit to providing an inclusive workplace for people in their 50s and 60s and taking the necessary action to help them flourish in a multigenerational workforce. Those in care or who have left care and are aged 24 and under
Armed forces veterans whose last long term substantive employer was the armed forces
Work-Life balance
Cumberland Council is deeply invested in fostering a work culture that prioritises the well-being and balance of our team members. Embracing flexible and hybrid working models, we empower employees to achieve optimal work-life balance.
Recognising the importance of personal time, we offer a generous holiday allowance, providing ample opportunity for rest and rejuvenation. Additionally, our flexible working hours, including flexitime arrangements, further contribute to a supportive environment where individuals can effectively manage their professional and personal commitments.
Continuing Professional Development
We are committed to nurturing the ongoing growth and professional advancement of our valued team members to fulfil your potential and advance your career. Our comprehensive career development and training offer emphasises continuous learning as a cornerstone for achieving both individual and organisational goals. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expect unwavering commitment to this cause from our employees, volunteers, and the Externally Provided Workforce (EPWs). Together, we create a secure environment where every individual is safeguarded and respected.
That's why we've cultivated a vibrant community of staff networking groups where every voice matters.
These groups are more than just forums-they're hubs of innovation and inclusion, dedicated to sparking fresh ideas, challenging the status quo, and championing equality and fairness for all. From exploring new perspectives to shaping policies that reflect our diverse workforce, our staff networks play a pivotal role in driving positive change.
Carers Network
Shine Community
Wellbeing/Health Advocates