Job Overview
Senior Children & Families Participation Worker – dynamic role within Children’s Services, based in Stevenage or Hatfield with countywide travel. Fixed‑term 12‑month contract. Expected salary £38,220 progressing to £41,771 per annum. Hours 37. The position focuses on leading a team of Participation Workers, overseeing the Return Home Interview service and improving child participation across diverse communities.
Responsibilities
* Lead and support staff by supervising Participation Workers, providing guidance, performance management and professional development.
* Deliver and oversee return home discussions for young people who have experienced missing episodes.
* Analyse and use feedback and data to inform service improvements.
* Work directly with young people and families to build trusting relationships and capture their experiences for care planning.
* Identify barriers to engagement and develop inclusive approaches to improve access.
* Collaborate with partners including safeguarding panels and multi‑agency forums to support risk management.
* Contribute to safeguarding oversight and ensure risks are identified and addressed.
* Deputise for the Team Manager when required to support continuity and project delivery.
Qualifications
* Essential
* Experience working in frontline statutory children’s services with strong safeguarding practices.
* Evidence of working with vulnerable children and young people, including those at risk of exploitation or who go missing.
* Strong partnership working skills and ability to build relationships across teams and agencies.
* Ability to analyse information and use data and feedback to inform decision‑making and service delivery.
* Experience of leading or supporting others, via formal management, projects or peer support.
* Excellent organisational and prioritisation skills to manage competing demands.
* Child‑centred approach that prioritises the voice and lived experience of young people.
* Knowledge of child development and social, emotional and mental health needs.
* Willingness to travel and work flexibly, including occasional evenings.
* Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
* Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check required.
* English fluency in spoken and written form.
* Desirable
* Experience supervising or managing staff.
* Knowledge of participation and co‑production approaches.
* Experience with Liquid Logic Case Management Systems.
Eligibility & EEO
We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and will guarantee an interview to anyone disclosing a disability that meets the minimum criteria for the post. This role requires a DBS check and requires the ability to drive or travel within Hertfordshire. Applicants must be based in the UK and have the right to work.
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