Introduction to Bracknell Forest Council and the Youth Justice Team
Bracknell Forest Council is a forward-thinking organization dedicated to creating a safer, more supportive community for all its residents. Our Youth Justice Team is at the forefront of this mission, providing exceptional support to children who have offended or are at risk of offending. We are proud to have received a 'Good' rating from Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Probation, with several outstanding areas of practice. Our team is built on the principles of inclusivity, ambition, and continuous learning, and we are now seeking a dedicated and experienced ACT Now Prevention Case Manager to join our ranks.
About the ACT Now Project
The ACT Now project is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reducing violence in our communities by offering early intervention and support to children arrested for knife-related and violent offenses. Our goal is to divert these children away from the criminal justice system and empower them to make positive changes in their lives. The project is rooted in Child First principles, which emphasize rehabilitation, empowerment, and community reintegration. As an ACT Now Prevention Case Manager, you will play a vital role in helping us achieve this mission.
Key Responsibilities
As an ACT Now Prevention Case Manager, your primary focus will be on providing intensive support to children on the periphery of youth offending. Your key responsibilities will include:
- Case Management: Develop and implement child-centered plans, monitor progress, and adjust strategies as needed to ensure the best possible outcomes for each child.
- Advocacy: Serve as a passionate advocate for each child, connecting them with necessary services, resources, and support systems to help them overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
- Collaboration: Work closely with families, professionals, schools, and community organizations to coordinate services and support, ensuring a cohesive and effective approach to each child's care.
- Crisis Intervention: Provide immediate support in crisis situations and help children develop coping strategies to manage their emotions and behaviors.
- Documentation: Maintain accurate and timely records of interactions, case progress, and outcomes, ensuring that all relevant information is up-to-date and easily accessible.
Essential Qualifications and Skills
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- Recent experience: Supporting vulnerable children and their families to achieve positive outcomes, with a strong understanding of safeguarding principles and practices.
- Commitment to Child First principles: A deep commitment to contributing to a brighter future for children and safer communities, with a focus on rehabilitation, empowerment, and community reintegration.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills: The ability to build strong relationships with children, families, and professionals, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team: The capacity to work autonomously and as part of a multidisciplinary team, with a strong focus on collaboration and coordination.
- Resilience and adaptability: The ability to work in a fast-paced environment, with a high degree of resilience and adaptability, and a willingness to learn and develop new skills.
Preferred Qualifications and Skills
While not essential, the following qualifications and skills would be desirable:
- Relevant qualifications: A recognized qualification in social work, youth work, or a related field, with a strong understanding of child development, safeguarding, and youth justice.
- Experience of working with children and families: Previous experience of working with children and families, with a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities that this presents.
- Knowledge of local services and resources: Familiarity with local services and resources, including education, health, and social care provision.
- Ability to speak multiple languages: The ability to speak multiple languages, reflecting the diversity of our community and enabling us to provide more effective support to children and families.
Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits
At Bracknell Forest Council, we are committed to supporting the growth and development of our employees. As an ACT Now Prevention Case Manager, you will have access to a range of training and development opportunities, including:
- Internal and external training programs: Opportunities to develop new skills and knowledge, with a focus on child development, safeguarding, and youth justice.
- Coaching and mentoring: Support from experienced colleagues and managers, with a focus on developing your skills and confidence.
- Career progression opportunities: The chance to progress your career within the organization, with opportunities to move into more senior roles or specialize in a particular area of practice.
Work Environment and Company Culture
Our work environment is built on the principles of inclusivity, ambition, and continuous learning. We believe in creating a positive and supportive workplace culture, with a focus on:
- Employee well-being: Supporting the physical and mental health of our employees, with access to a range of wellness initiatives and employee benefits.
- Diversity and inclusion: Celebrating the diversity of our community and promoting inclusivity in all aspects of our work.
- Collaboration and teamwork: Fostering a culture of collaboration and teamwork, with a focus on shared goals and collective success.
Compensation, Perks, and Benefits
In return for your hard work and dedication, we offer a range of benefits, including:
- Competitive salary: A salary that reflects your skills and experience, with opportunities for progression and development.
- Generous annual leave: 28 days' annual leave, increasing to 33 days after 3 years' service, with the option to purchase additional leave.
- Flexible working arrangements: Opportunities for flexible and agile working, with a focus on supporting your work-life balance.
- Pension scheme: Access to a local government pension scheme, with a range of benefits and options.
- Life insurance cover: Life insurance cover, linked to the pension scheme, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Access to an EAP, providing support for your physical and mental health, with a range of counseling and advisory services.
- Staff discounts and benefits: A range of staff discounts and benefits, including discounted leisure center and gym membership, supermarket discounts, and more.
Conclusion
If you are a dedicated and experienced youth worker, passionate about supporting vulnerable children and families, we would love to hear from you. As an ACT Now Prevention Case Manager, you will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people, while developing your skills and career in a supportive and dynamic environment. Please apply now to take the first step towards a rewarding and challenging career with Bracknell Forest Council.
How to Apply
To apply for this role, please submit your application as soon as possible. We will be reviewing applications regularly and reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified. For an informal discussion or to ask any questions about this role, please contact Jo Graves, Operational Manager, on 01344 354324.
Apply Now