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)? If so, we invite you to become a part of our dedicated team at Polaris, one of the UK’s largest communities of children’s services providers.

About Us

At Polaris, we have been transforming the lives of young people for over 30 years through our independent fostering and adoption agencies, education services, and bespoke children’s services contracts. Our nurturing community is committed to supporting 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 play a crucial role in providing timely, confidential, and impartial information, advice, and support to parents, carers, children, and young people with SEND. Your mission will be to empower families to take an active and informed role in their education.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one support to a caseload of children and young people with SEND and their families.
• Assist with common topics such as EHCP applications, SEND tribunals, attendance issues, and social care provision.
• Explain documents, support customers in writing applications, and attend meetings or mediation with them.
• Advocate for customers throughout the SENDIST appeal process.
• Identify barriers faced by customers and advocate for necessary support services.
• 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 professional who is approachable, outcome-focused, and has a genuine interest in supporting families with SEND. The ideal candidate will possess:

• A qualification in SEND law or a willingness to pursue IPSEA SEN Law Training within the first year.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in a leadership position, with a calm yet assertive demeanor.
• Confidence in using Microsoft Office applications and databases.
• A full UK driving licence and access to your own car.

Working Conditions

This is a part-time, permanent position with a salary of £19,882.12 (actual pro-rated salary, £23,195.81 FTE). You will work 30 hours per week, with a flexible working pattern negotiated with your line manager. The role is primarily home-based, but you will need to travel for regular meetings within Hampshire.

Benefits

We value our employees and offer a range of benefits, including:

• 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.

Join Us!

Polaris Children’s Services is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, with the cost covered by Polaris.

If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact and grow with us, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our inspiring community!