Young Persons Practitioner

Do you have experience working with young offenders or those at risk of offending or knowledge of the criminal justice system? We also openly welcome applications from those with lived experience and may have first hand experience that some of young people are facing and have chosen to give back to the Social Care sector.

- Whilst an HNC/ SVQ in Social Care is desirable, we are very open to relevant experience, rather than a qualification.
- Prior experience working within a multi-agency social care, early years or health environment and applying safeguarding.
- Experience of managing cases, in accordance with agreed procedures and completing assessments, planning and reviews to ensure positive outcomes.
- Driving licence and access to a car is required due to the geographical area the role covers.

We understand that there are a lot of jobs out there just now but if this role connects with you, and you really want to make a difference to the lives of young people, then we'd love to see your application. 

Why Action for Children?

Working here is more than a job. Everyone in the Action for Children family is passionate about protecting and supporting children. It's the sense of purpose that drives us every single day. Because we know that, when we work together, we can make a huge difference to bring lasting improvements to vulnerable children's lives.

A bit about the role

Action for Children's Whole Systems service provides support for young people in Lanarkshire aged 14yrs – 26yrs who are involved in offending behaviour.

Our aim is to reduce the risk of re-offending and minimise the likelihood of young people appearing within the criminal justice system. By working with partner organisations, we seek to successfully maintain young people in their local communities and to move them into a positive destination such as employment.

The contract initially runs for 6 months – with the potential of extension. It will enable you to grow your experience and build your network with a wide range of organisations across the region and gain invaluable experience within a great Charity.

How you'll help to create brighter futures

Our Practitioners work together to support families and take early action at the first signs of any difficulty, so they're not getting involved after a situation has already reached crisis point.

You'll be part of a small team working in the community, putting the needs of young people and their families needs first. You will facilitate group work, as well as 1-2-1's and help guide and support them onto a different path such as school, employment and housing whilst also being able to support their mental health and wellbeing.

Some key responsibilities of the role are:

- Offering tailored support and management for young people involved in or at risk of offending, based on individual needs and taking into account differing backgrounds and demographics.
- Supporting our young people and the challenges they may face such as parenting, homelessness or substance misuse.
- Offering practical support and guidance to our young people including support with daily tasks such as shopping or attending appointments.
- Facilitating groups for outdoor programmes and delivering group programmes, as needed.

Good to know

Application Process

There are five sections to complete: Personal Details, CV, Supporting Statement & Information, Equality & Diversity, Submission & Declaration.

Talent Pool

We know talent when we see it. But sometimes we find the right person but not for the right job. We'd love to keep your details for when the right job comes up. Let us know if you'd rather we didn't.

Contact: If, for any reason, you need support with your application, please contact Laura McCarthy at Laura.McCarthy2@actionforchildren.org.uk. We'll be happy to give you any support you require.