Job Description

Fern Lodge is a residential family newly established centre, in Hythe, Kent, operating under

Lighthouse Family Assessment Service Limited.

We provide expert, evidence-based parenting assessments to courts and Local Authorities.

We are currently recruiting family support workers - 42 hours per week, which includes day shifts of 08:00hrs - 20:15hrs and Sleep Ins (on a rota basis, Monday - Sunday)

The role of Family Support Worker entails providing safety, support, care and guidance to families who are placed with us for assessment. In addition to offering support in relation to parenting, your role will also involve participating in the wider assessment of each parents' skills and parenting capacity.

The role requires a two week induction period, during which the first week's hours for this, you will be required to complete shifts during our normal day shift patterns between the hours of 08:00hrs - 20:15hrs.

The role also entails attending training courses, some of which are held on site. The successful applicant must ensure that they will be able to attend training courses that will be held between Monday- Friday, 9:00am- 4:00pm (Sufficient notice for each course will be provided).

Fantastic development opportunities for staff and a high level of training provided in house.

Person Specification:

Essential

Previous experience in working in a residential care setting, children's health care or with children and familiesResilient and motivated person Good communication skills, both verbal and written Calm, approachable manner, adaptable and non-judgemental Able to work under own initiative and as part of a team
Desirable

Experience supporting parents or working in parenting assessment services. Knowledge of family court processes and multi-agency work. Ability to drive and hold a full UK driving licence.

Skills and Experience

Previous experience in working in a residential care setting, children's health care or with children and families

Knowledge of Child and Adult Protection and Safeguarding

We are looking for candidates who are passionate about improving the lives and outcomes for children and their families. We expect successful candidates to be able to promote the well-being of our families through a programme of activities, groups and workshops which may be run in the community or in-house.

Duties and Responsibilities

Understand and adhere to Lighthouse Family Assessment Services Policies and Procedures. Demonstrate a working knowledge of The Residential Family Centres National Minimum Standards 2013 and The Residential Family Centre Regulations 2012 as amended. To work alongside and in partnership with team members and other professionals (Social Workers, Police, Education, and Health) to help families reach targets and expectations as outlined in their care plans and other plans for permanence. Keep up to date and accurate monitoring and records of the family's progress plus any incidents. Attend regular supervision seminars and staff meetings, actively pursue relevant qualifications and undertake training as required developing the post holders own skills. Demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and families in line with appropriate legislation and company policies. Contribute to and maintain a high level of recording and report writing, and contribute in meetings as required to assist in planning to meet the needs of children and their families. Maintain a professional attitude and appropriate appearance at all times whilst on shift. Undertake any other duties or responsibilities as required by the manager to assist the functioning of the care home or care towards children at that time. This includes domestic tasks such as cooking and cleaning. Such other duties as may be deemed appropriate from time to time.

Qualifications

Essential:

Level 3 Children and Young People's Workforce Diploma, which must include mandatory social care units, or be working towards the relevant qualifications within six months of confirmation of employment. OR Willingness to begin working towards this qualification within six months of employment.
Desirable:

Level 3 or 4 Award/Certificate in Work with Parents or similar parenting/family support qualifications.
What We Offer

A supportive working environment with structured induction and mentoring. In-house training and continuous professional development opportunities. A chance to make a real impact on vulnerable families and improve outcomes for children.

Safeguarding Statement

Lighthouse Family Assessment Services is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check, employment history verification, reference checks, and proof of the right to work in the UK.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 28,000.00-30,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person