SENDIASS Support Worker
Join Our Team as a SENDIASS Support Worker!
Salary: £19,882.12 actual pro-rated salary (£23,195.81 FTE)
Contract: Part Time, Permanent
Hours: 30 hours per week, with a flexible working pattern negotiated with your line manager
Base Location: Home-based
Travel: Regular meetings within Hampshire
Why Work With Us?
At Polaris, we are proud to be one of the UK’s largest communities of children’s services providers. For over 30 years, we have been dedicated to improving the lives of young people through our independent fostering and adoption agencies, leaving care services, and bespoke educational programs. Join us in our mission to create the best outcomes for every child in our care!
About Hampshire SENDIASS
Our SENDIASS services are a vital part of the Children’s Services branch at Polaris. We provide timely, confidential, and impartial information, advice, and support for parents, carers, children, and young people with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND). Our goal is to empower families to take an active and informed role in their education.
Your Role
As a SENDIASS Support Worker, you will be an essential part of our friendly team in Hampshire. You will provide one-on-one support to families navigating the complexities of SEND, ensuring they feel informed and empowered.
Key Responsibilities
- Support a caseload of children and young people with SEND and their parents.
- Assist with EHCP applications, SEND tribunals, attendance issues, and more.
- Guide customers through documentation and meetings, ensuring they meet deadlines.
- Advocate for customers during the SENDIST appeal process.
- Help customers set clear expectations of your role and the support provided.
- Explain relevant SEND legislation and policies to customers.
- Identify barriers and advocate for necessary support services.
- Encourage self-advocacy among children, young people, and parents.
- Maintain accurate records of advice and support provided.
- Contribute to the development of resources for our SENDIASS website and social media.
What We’re Looking For
We seek a passionate individual with relevant experience in special educational needs, disabilities, education, health, or social care. You should be professional, approachable, and focused on achieving positive outcomes.
- A qualification in SEND law or a willingness to pursue IPSEA SEN Law Training.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Experience in a leadership role with the ability to manage complex conversations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and databases.
- A full UK driving licence and access to your own car.
Benefits of Joining Us
- 30 days of annual leave, increasing to 35 days with length of service.
- Bank holidays.
- Company pension.
- Life Assurance x2.
- Employee Discount Scheme.
- Medical Cash Plan.
- Benefits pro-rated for part-time employees.
Commitment to Safeguarding
Polaris Children’s Services is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All staff are expected to share this commitment. The successful candidate will undergo an enhanced DBS check, with costs covered by Polaris.
Equal Opportunities
We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from all qualified candidates. Join us in making a difference!
