Southend City Council are looking to appoint a part-time (29hrs), Family Engagement Practitioner within a 1-year fixed term capacity. The salary is pro rata'd to the 29hrs.

Within this position, hybrid working opportunities are available. However, you are required to be on-site at the Civic Centre a minimum of 2 days a week.

This position will require the successful candidate to work within the Children in Care Team. The post holder will be responsible for carrying out Family Networking Meetings, Restorative Conferencing, completing life story work with younger children and supporting reunification. Therefore, the Family Engagement Practitioner will need to be confident about carrying out meetings with families and their support networks.

They will carry out restorative family meetings between children and their parents, parent to parent, or a mixture of family and friends coming together to discuss issues within a family's functioning that have caused harm and have raised a conflict within these relationships.

The Family Engagement Practitioner will need to understand risks and safeguarding responsibilities, as well as be prepared and available for regular supervision.
You will be visiting family homes, so a driving licence and access to a car is essential.

To be shortlisted for this position, it is essential that you have confidence in leading restorative and family network meetings, which often involve complex dynamics and emotionally charged situations.

You must have a proven background within children and families, working with under 10s and Children Looked After.

Essentially, you need to have a strong understanding of restorative practice, safeguarding and risk. Alongside the ability to build trust with families and professionals.

The role demands flexibility, reflective practice, and a commitment to supervision and continuous learning. You need to be able to thrive in a fast-paced environment, working collaboratively to support families that are open to Children’s Social Care.

When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.

*** Please note that salaries and holiday entitlement will be pro rata'd in line with the advertised hours for this position.