Job Purpose

To work directly with young people to support them with any problems they might have; filling in forms for schools/college, housing, doctors, attending courts etc. The youth support worker will work as part of a team of other staff led by the Manager of the home.

Team Purpose

To promote and develop the independent skills of young people, by supporting life skills, social educational opportunities for young people aged 16- 17 within the support home.

Summary of Main Contacts

The Post holder is required to develop positive relationships with young people, other youth workers and members of the wider community.

Main Tasks/Accountabilities

• Contribute towards the general running and organisation of the home and its related activities.
• Accurate reporting and recording of activities in the home.
• Attend meeting eg LAC Reviews, PEP meetings.
• Liaising with external organisation eg colleges, training facilities, school, immigration.
• Share responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of all young people in the home.
• Involve young people in such initiatives ensuring real participation and developing feelings of ownership.
• Attend regular staff and supervision meetings outside normal work session.
• Take part in relevant youth work training.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Please ensure that you read the person specification carefully as this will be used to assess candidates as part of the shortlist and interview process.

Knowledge/Qualifications

• Holds a qualification in youth work, NVQ 3 preferred or equivalent, has experience of working with young people in this or related fields, or is willing to undertake training as appropriate.
• Can empathise with young people, and relate to young people and adults in a positive way.
• Can demonstrate ability to work in a team and on his/her own.
• Due to the nature of the job, the preferred age of employees is over 21s.

Skills/Abilities

• Ability to help plan and co-ordinate a programme of activities for young people aged 16-17
• Have an imaginative and enthusiastic approach
• Good interpersonal and team skills
• Has a commitment to equal opportunities.
• Preferably has life skills and expertise, which can be usefully, utilised in the youth work programme, e.g. cooking, cleaning, budgeting, music, arts, sports, outdoor activities, health awareness, and street culture
• Has good communication skills and is able to relate to young people and adults in a positive way.

Experience

• Preferably has experience of working with young people in a social education framework.
• Preferably has experience of working with young people in an informal setting.

Personal Qualities

• Is able to maintain confidentiality within the parameters of Life Skills Supporting Accommodation services.

Special Factors

• No staff are able to commence work until a satisfactory DBS check has been undertaken
• All staff will be expected to complete an Induction Programme. New staff are expected to complete a one evening introduction course and Youth Work Basics Course within the first year (exemptions are given for previous training). There is an expectation that all staff undertake a minimum of two sessions training per year for further years.