Location: Kent (Tonbridge)

Salary: £24,821.00 per annum

Contract: Full-time, Permanent (40 hours per week)

Application Closing Date: 04/08/2023

Job Description

Look Ahead is seeking a kind, compassionate, and resilient Support Worker to join our Young People service in West Kent, specifically in Tonbridge. As a Support Worker, you will be responsible for working in Look Ahead’s flexible supported accommodation and floating support for Children in Care, Care Leavers, and Homeless 16/17-year olds.

Your role will involve managing the initial period from when a child or young person is referred to ensuring a smooth arrival and transition, as well as planning their exit from the service, including identifying suitable long-term accommodation and managing their expectations. Additionally, you will provide floating support to young people living in their own accommodation, enabling them to develop resilience and independence.

Key Responsibilities:

Build open and supportive relationships with customers, creating a positive atmosphere.
Conduct holistic assessments of new customers, incorporating relevant referral information.
Carry out regular key work sessions to achieve Support Plan goals.
Ensure ongoing assessment and management of risks associated with customers, adopting a positive risk-taking approach.
Support customers in domestic tasks and provide practical assistance where necessary.
Develop and maintain connections with key agencies and service providers in the local community.
Empower customers to access entitled services and benefits.
Foster productive relationships with partner organizations to improve service outcomes.
Demonstrate commitment to the functioning of the staff team and support colleagues in providing a high level of service and safety.
Involve customers in the design, development, and delivery of the service.
Adhere to Look Ahead’s policies and procedures.
Engage in learning and development activities to enhance knowledge and skills.
Participate in reflective practice sessions with colleagues.
Undertake any other duties assigned, as per the needs of Look Ahead.

Requirements:

Enjoys social interaction and encourages customer involvement in local activities.
Approachable, open, and enjoys working as part of a team.
Demonstrates calmness, resilience, and strong judgment.
Possesses practical and logical organizational skills.
Flexible and open to feedback and self-development.
Thrives in dynamic and diverse environments.
Confident, with high levels of self-esteem.
Respectful, articulate, and sensitive in communication.
Customer-focused and motivated towards excellence.
Ability to handle challenging and diverse behaviors positively.

Desirable Skills:

NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent experience in the social care/charity sector.
Experience working with vulnerable young people.
Full driving license and access to a vehicle.

Benefits

We offer a competitive salary of £24,821.00 per annum, based on a 40-hour workweek. As part of our comprehensive benefits package, you will receive 25 days of annual leave, pension schemes, staff discounts, healthcare, and opportunities for career progression.

About Look Ahead

Look Ahead is a leading not-for-profit care and support provider operating in London and the South East. With over 110 services and support provided to around 7,000 customers each year, we work in areas such as mental health, homelessness, young people, and learning disabilities. Joining Look Ahead offers excellent prospects for career growth and advancement.

Please note that Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and we expect all employees, workers, and volunteers to share this commitment. If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we believe you may be suitable for another position, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities.

To apply for this position, please apply online before the closing date of 04/08/2023