Job Title: Independent Visitor Service Coordinator
Location: Milton Keynes (with some travel for out-of-area children and visiting children and young people in area)
Reports to: Children's Services Service Manager
Responsible for: Independent Visitor Service (Milton Keynes)
Key Tasks
Purpose of the Role
To manage the day-to-day delivery of the Independent Visitor (IV) service in Milton Keynes and for out-of-area children and young people. This includes recruiting and training volunteers, matching them with children and young people, providing ongoing support, and ensuring the service is child-led, safe, and delivered to a high standard.
Key Responsibilities
Service Management
* Oversee the daily running of the Independent Visitor service.
* Manage referrals, case allocations, and matching of children with volunteers.
* Conduct initial visits with young people and complete all associated paperwork.
* Maintain accurate case records, databases, and monitoring systems.
* Develop and implement strategic plans for Reconstruct's Children's Services in consultation with the line manager and colleagues.
* Complete quarterly reports for commissioners.
Volunteer Recruitment and Support
* Recruit, train, and supervise Independent Visitor volunteers.
* Develop and maintain a pool of volunteers to meet service needs.
* Provide ongoing support, including email and telephone contact, peer-to-peer support sessions, and supervision.
* Authorise and monitor volunteers' out-of-pocket expenses on a monthly basis.
Children and Young People
* Meet with children and young people to identify the most suitable Independent Visitor match.
* Ensure all children and young people are safeguarded at all times.
* Undertake risk assessments for children, young people, and activities.
* Involve young people in shaping and developing the service.
* Respond promptly and appropriately to the needs of children and young people.
Partnership and Promotion
* Promote the service to professionals, carers, and families.
* Liaise with social workers, carers, and other professionals on behalf of young people.
* Represent the service at meetings, planning days, and peer sessions.
Other Duties
* Work independently while contributing to a supportive team culture.
* Maintain confidentiality, GDPR compliance, and adherence to all Reconstruct policies.
* Attend training, supervision, and team planning sessions as required.
* Undertake additional duties consistent with the role, as specified by the Head of Services or nominated staff.
* Carry out any other tasks reasonably required to ensure the effective delivery of the Independent Visitor service
* Support the advocacy service when required
Additional Requirements
* Flexibility to work evenings and weekends where required.
* Willingness to travel to visit young people; access to a car and a valid driving licence are essential.
Person SpecificationSkills and Aptitudes
* Strong computer skills (e.g. word processing, emails, database management).
* Ability to maintain accurate records and administration systems.
* Effective communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
Knowledge and Experience
* Experience of working directly with children and young people.
* Understanding of safeguarding and child protection (essential; training can be provided).
* Commitment to equality, diversity, and anti-discriminatory practice.
* (Desirable) Experience of working in a social care setting.
* (Desirable) Knowledge of the care system and relevant legislation.
* (Desirable) Experience delivering training or small group sessions.
Education and Training
* Educated to at least Level 4 (or equivalent), with a good standard of English (GCSE grade C or above).
* (Desirable) A relevant qualification in social work, youth and community work, education, or related field.
Other Requirements
* Clean driving licence and access to a car.
* Flexibility to work outside office hours if required.
* Satisfactory enhanced DBS check.
Job Types: Part-time, Permanent
Pay: £9,828.00 per year
Expected hours: 14 per week
Benefits:
* Additional leave
* Company pension
* Free or subsidised travel
* Paid volunteer time
* Sick pay
* Work from home
Education:
* GCSE or equivalent (preferred)
Experience:
* Administrative experience: 1 year (preferred)
* working with children: 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: Remote