SENDIASS Support Worker

Join Our Team as a SENDIASS Support Worker!

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)? At Polaris, we are on a mission to empower families and ensure that every child has the support they need to thrive. We are looking for a dedicated SENDIASS Support Worker to join our friendly team in Richmond and Kingston on a 12-month fixed-term contract for maternity cover.

About Us

Polaris is one of the UK's leading communities of children's services providers, with over 30 years of experience in fostering, adoption, and bespoke children's services. Our nurturing community is committed to achieving the best outcomes for every child in our care. We believe in the potential of our children, families, and staff, and we are ambitious for their futures.

Your Role

As a SENDIASS Support Worker, you will provide confidential, impartial, one-to-one support to parents, carers, children, and young people navigating the complexities of SEND. Your expertise will help empower families to take an active role in their education.

Key Responsibilities

• Support a caseload of children and young people with SEND and their families.
• Assist with common topics such as EHCP applications, SEND tribunals, and social care provision.
• Provide guidance on relevant SEND legislation and policy.
• Help customers set clear expectations of your role and the support you provide.
• Encourage self-advocacy among children, young people, and their 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 candidate who is:

• Experienced or personally knowledgeable in special educational needs, disabilities, or social care.
• Willing to pursue qualifications in SEND law (IPSEA SEN Law Training).
• Skilled in communication and interpersonal relations.
• Familiar with the local communities and services in Richmond and Kingston.
• Confident in managing complex conversations with various stakeholders.

Working Conditions

This is a part-time position with 31 hours per week, and your working pattern will be negotiated with your line manager. You will primarily work from home, with occasional travel for meetings in Richmond and Kingston.

Why Join Us?

At Polaris, we value our team members and offer a range of benefits to support your well-being:

• 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.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, which will be covered by Polaris Children's Services.

If you are ready to make a meaningful impact and join a supportive community, we encourage you to apply!