Family Solutions is an Early Help service in Essex working holistically with disadvantage families, with multiple difficulties to enable them to make significant changes and improvements to their lives. Family Solutions is part of children's social care and was described as "exceptional" by OFSTED in their recent inspection which judged children's social care as "outstanding".

An exciting permanent and fixed term opportunity has arisen in the highly performing West team. The team is based in Harlow, but covers the district council areas of Brentwood, Epping Forest, Harlow, and Uttlesford.

The work of a Link Family Worker is complex, sometimes challenging, but always varied and rewarding. Key aspects of the work include:

Working closely with families to build strong relationships with all family members.

Promoting positive change with families.

Provide both practical and specialist advice as well acting as a lead coordinator for additional support services where appropriate.

Managing your own caseload

Managing safeguarding risks to children

Taking the lead on an area of professional practice for the team through supporting team members, and liaising with professionals outside of Family Solutions

The West team are extremely supportive. The post holder will be supervised by an experienced manager or senior social worker. Family Workers will also utilise support from colleagues who have specialisms in different areas.

The post holder will be expected to operate flexibly, working out of normal office hours when required to best meet the needs of the family.

For an informal conversation about this exciting opportunity call Simon Morris on 07825 860009.

Knowledge, skills and experience

• Educated to degree level preferred but minimum NVQ level 4 or equivalent by experience in relevant thematic specialism i.e. Domestic Abuse, Substance Misuse, Education, Mental Health, and Parenting. Please note that one post in each team requires the applicant to hold a social work qualification and be HCPC registered.

• Evidence of continuing professional development with good knowledge in relevant professional area and commitment to the principles of evidence based practice.

• Significant practical experience of working with families with multiple and complex needs.

• Effective communication skills, good problem solving and assessment skills with a demonstrable track record of building and sustaining positive professional relationships with individuals and families with multiple and complex needs.

• The role requires you to be mobile throughout a wide operational area including, and occasionally transporting service users. Driving licence and car is essential.