Personal Advisor - Leaving Care Service - AR

Job Description

Job Title: Personal Advisor - Leaving Care Service

Service Area: Children's Services / Care Leavers Service

Reports to: Team Manager / Leaving Care Manager

Team: Care Leavers Service

Direct Reports: None

Role Purpose

The Personal Advisor will support young people in care and care leavers as they transition into adulthood and independent living. The post holder will work collaboratively with young adults, carers, and partner agencies to assess needs, coordinate services, and promote positive outcomes in line with statutory duties and leaving care legislation.

The role combines case management, advocacy, safeguarding awareness, and practical support to help young people access suitable accommodation, education, employment, health services, and wider opportunities.

Key Responsibilities Case Management & Young People Support

• Manage a caseload of young adults and prioritise work activities effectively
• Assess young people's needs and deliver planned interventions and practical support
• Develop, implement, and review Pathway Plans with active participation from young people
• Undertake regular visits and maintain consistent engagement in line with statutory requirements
• Support young adults with housing, education, employment, benefits, health, wellbeing, and independent living needs

Partnership Working & Safeguarding

• Work closely with carers, internal teams, and external professionals to coordinate support services
• Attend and contribute to professional meetings, safeguarding meetings, and court proceedings where required
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with partner agencies
• Signpost and advocate for young people to access appropriate services and support

Recording, Reporting & Compliance

• Maintain accurate case records, reports, and communication logs
• Produce concise written and verbal reports based on analysis and evidence
• Ensure Pathway Plans remain current and compliant with statutory requirements
• Undertake duties in accordance with Care Leavers Regulations, Children Act legislation, and council policies

Person Specification Experience

• Recent Personal Advisor experience is essential
• Experience working with looked after children and care leavers
• Experience managing complex caseloads within a fast-paced environment
• Experience of multi-agency working and safeguarding processes

Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge of leaving care legislation, safeguarding, and transition to adulthood frameworks
• Understanding of issues affecting care leavers including housing, benefits, exploitation, parenting, education, training, and employment
• Strong communication, assessment, and report writing skills
• Ability to build positive relationships with young people and professionals
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities

Additional Requirements

• Up-to-date Enhanced DBS required
• Minimum 3 days office attendance per week
• Flexibility to work outside core hours where required to meet service needs
• Ability to travel to visits, meetings, and appointments including out-of-area placements and university settings
• Commitment to equality, diversity, safeguarding, GDPR, and council policies