Independent Advocate
2 days ago
Tipton
3-year fixed term contract An exciting opportunity has arisen to join a well-established registered charity serving the Sandwell borough. Established in 1993, the organisation has spent over 30 years providing independent advocacy, supporting people to have their voices heard in decisions about their care, health, and wider life choices. Highly respected within the community, the charity offers a supportive and collaborative working environment, alongside training and development to help staff grow and succeed. You will provide one-to-one advocacy for parents with learning disabilities , helping them to understand processes, explore options and speak up for themselves. The Independent Advocacy Practitioner will work closely with Senior colleagues and Independent Wellbeing Officers to deliver the projects objectives, while making a real and lasting difference within the local community. What we need from you: Experience providing one-to-one, issue-based advocacy support A background supporting individuals with a learning disability and/or autism, alongside a good understanding of their health and social care needs Strong knowledge of the principles underpinning effective advocacy within an empowering framework The ability to build trusting, respectful partnerships that promote independence and dignity Excellent communication skills, including listening, negotiating, and promoting informed choice and user involvement Confidence in raising awareness of issues affecting individuals with a learning disability or autism, and promoting the PAGE Project (Parents Advocacy, Guidance and Empowerment Project) across health and social care settings using appropriate presentation methods A clear commitment to equality of opportunity, working in a non-judgemental and enabling way, and appropriately challenging discriminatory behaviour where required Self-motivation and strong organisation skills, with the ability to work independently, plan and prioritise workloads, and meet performance indicators linked to service outcomes Desirable: The ability to communicate with individuals using non-conventional methods of communication Possession of (or willingness to work towards) the National Certificate/Diploma in Independent Advocacy Current full driving licence and access to a car Key Responsibilities: Advocate for parents with learning disabilities across a range of settings, including Early Help, Child in Need and Child Protection plans, Section 47 enquiries, court proceedings, and interim care orders Support parents to participate fully in planning, decision-making, and life choices that affect them and their families Work within an empowering framework, helping individuals express their views and ensuring these are understood and considered Raise awareness of issues affecting parents engaging with childrens services, and promote the PAGE Project across health, social care, and education settings Work collaboratively with referral agencies and key stakeholders to ensure accessible and responsive processes Complete assessments, develop advocacy plans, and manage a caseload in line with agreed outcomes and organisational standards Monitor and evaluate outcomes, contributing to reports that inform service development Take part in supervision and professional development, keeping knowledge of relevant legislation, policy, and best practice up to date Work in line with safeguarding, health and safety, and equality policies, and support wider team objectives where required Salary: £26,505 - £28,168 per year. Hours: Working 35 hours per week, flexible, core hours are 9am 4.30pm. Benefits : 5 Weeks Annual Leave + Bank Holidays 5% Employers Pension contribution Flexible working Induction, in-house advocacy training, on-going training and development All paid advocacy practitioners have or are working towards the National Advocacy Qualification, a recognised professional credential for independent advocates in England Closing date for applications: w/c 9 March 2026. Interviews scheduled for: 19 March 2026. Please apply now! TPBN1_UKTJ