Family Support Worker; Family Locality

Job Title: Family Support Worker (Family Help) Central Hereford Locality

Salary: HC07 £ 32,061 - £36,363 per annum

Contract: Fixed Term to 2 July 2027

Hours: 37

Location: Plough Lane, Hereford

Closing date: 14 July 2026

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Family Support Worker to join our team, working directly with vulnerable children, young people, and their families across a range of settings, including homes, schools, colleges and community environments. This role delivers evidence‑based, therapeutic interventions that support positive outcomes for children and young people, including those with special educational needs, physical disabilities and life‑limiting conditions.

As part of the Families First Programme, you will support whole‑family approaches, collaborating with social workers and partner agencies to assess needs, coordinate support and implement effective plans.

This dynamic role supports vulnerable children, young people and families through direct, relationship‑based and restorative practice. You will work 1:1 using evidence‑based approaches to assess needs, build resilience and improve outcomes. Managing a complex caseload, you will complete Family Help Assessments (including Section 17), develop SMART plans and lead Family Help review meetings at Targeted Early Help or where appropriate Child in Need level.

You will coordinate multi‑agency support, make referrals in line with local thresholds and work closely with partners to ensure effective interventions. You will fulfil safeguarding responsibilities, complete specialist assessments (e.g., Young Carers) and advocate for children and families. You will deliver parenting programmes, engage family networks and creatively support children and young people, including those with additional needs, to access education, positive activities and appropriate services.

The role requires strong organisational, communication and judgement skills and a commitment to high‑quality recording and data management. You will contribute to multi‑agency meetings, provide written and verbal reports and maintain accurate, timely records. Opportunities exist to develop specialist expertise, participate in supervision, training and court processes.

• You hold a Level 4 qualification (or above) in a relevant field such as health, education, child development, youth work or social care.
• You have experience working with children, young people and families, with a sound understanding of social care and Early Help frameworks.
• You have proven experience managing complex caseloads, acting as a lead worker and coordinating multi‑agency support to achieve positive outcomes.
• You are confident in evidence‑based therapeutic approaches such as motivational interviewing and solution‑focused practice, and ideally have experience delivering parenting programmes (e.g., Triple P or Solihull).
• You build strong, trusting relationships, ensure the voice of the child is heard and advocate effectively on behalf of families.
• You can complete high‑quality assessments, reports and plans and confidently chair multi‑agency meetings.
• You demonstrate excellent communication, organisational and IT skills, prioritising workloads and working independently and collaboratively.
• You understand safeguarding responsibilities and can identify, assess and respond to risk, including exploitation and complex needs.
• You challenge partners and providers constructively to ensure high standards of support.
• You are highly motivated, adaptable and resilient, with a flexible approach to working hours and environments, including travel across the county and family homes.
• You have access to your own transport and are prepared to work evenings and weekends where required.

• Annual salary range of £32,061 – £36,363 per annum.
• Protected time and budget for professional development.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) enrolment.
• Clear pathways to career progression.
• 31 days’ annual leave (pro‑rata) plus bank holidays, with option to purchase an additional 10 days per annum.
• Flexible working arrangements, including job‑sharing, part‑time hours and agile working.
• Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 access to support and counselling.
• Payment of professional membership fees (based on role requirements).
• Additional retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits.

In accordance with the Equality Act, candidates with disabilities, armed forces veterans or reservists and Herefordshire care leavers will receive special consideration where they meet the essential criteria for the post.

All staff, visitors and volunteers are expected to uphold the organisation’s commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Successful candidates will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service enhanced check and further pre‑employment checks.