Autism Specialist Advisor – Information line
Autism West Midlands is a leading charity in the West Midlands for autistic people and their families. We use our expertise to enrich the lives of autistic people and those who love and care for them. Our passionate, expert staff and volunteers work across all age groups and abilities, by providing personalised support.
Where will you be working?
This role involves working within the Navigation Team for the Community Autism Support Service for Coventry & Warwickshire.
The Navigation Team is the first point of contact for families and individuals referred into the CASS service. You will be working as part of a small team, responding to calls and emails from autistic people, their families and professionals supporting them.
The Navigation Team delivers person centred support to callers who may present with a wide range of issues and queries. You will provide detailed information and advice and provide high quality signposting. As part of the referral process, you will assist in processing referrals and undertaking Support Needs Assessments.
A hybrid role based at the Head Office in Selly Oak, working from Monday-Friday 9-5pm This is a full time position based upon 37 hours per week – job share may be considered.
Key aspects of the Autism Specialist Advisor role:
* Listen to callers to gather facts to establish how best to advise them
* Provide information about autism and advise on the implementation of autism strategies
* Signpost callers to relevant local services
* Support callers in developing their own understanding of autism, how it impacts their life, and encourage independence and self-advocacy
* Ensure that all actions taken on caller's behalf are undertaken with their understanding, approval and with awareness of confidentiality guidelines.
* Carry out research where necessary to find out more in-depth and/or local information
* Maintain a broad and up-to-date knowledge of local services to signpost service users appropriately, liaising with other agencies as required
* Undertake Support Needs Assessments and make internal referrals to the Community Services Team
* Work in partnership with locally commissioned services
* Manage time effectively and independently, working within the guidelines set by your line manager
* Liaise effectively and professionally with organisations, and other Autism West Midlands departments and staff, families and the people we support.
* Keep and manage case records securely and dispose of them according to legal requirements and Autism West Midlands policy.
* Collect, record and present statistical information by imputing data onto the database.
* Report safeguarding/child protection issues that may arise directly to the appropriate agency in coordination with the Assistant Manager and Designated Safeguarding Lead and together agree appropriate action, following Autism West Midlands's procedures.
* Take the time to develop your knowledge, skills and understanding of the needs of autistic people and how to support and communicate effectively with the individuals you support.
* Attend and participate in mandatory and relevant training courses as and when required.
* Work flexibly and be prepared to undertake work outside your normal hours if required for the effective delivery of the service
* Positively promote and raise the profile of autistic people and Autism West Midlands.
* Build effective relationships within the wider Autism West Midlands team, sharing ideas, research and developments
* Work in accordance with Autism West Midlands policies and procedures.
* Any other duties required within the role.
In return we can offer you:
* £ salary per year
* A supportive management team
* Free DBS check paid for by Autism West Midlands
* Free Healthcare cash back scheme
* Employee assistance scheme providing support
* Extensive training
* Life assurance
* Company Sick Pay Scheme
* Refer a friend scheme – £200 for each referral