Due to continued growth, our client a charity based in West Berkshire is looking to appoint an experienced Team Supervisor.

Independent Supervising Advocates provide advocacy across the Statutory Advocacy Disciplines in line with the specific legislation, guidance and codes of conduct for each area of advocacy delivery. Independent Advocates must adhere to the Advocacy Charter and Codes of Practice when carrying out their work.

As well as providing independent advocacy, the Statutory Supervising Advocate will work with the Service Manager to triage referrals and allocate cases to Independent Advocates and Independent Advocate Volunteers. They will also work closely with the charities Volunteer Manager to recruit and induct volunteers. The Supervising Advocate will provide line management to all Independent Advocate volunteers.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Work as part of a team to provide outcome focused, person directed emotional & practical support and advocacy as outlined in the service specification and in line with relevant legislation, regulations, codes of practice and internal policy & procedure
• Promote self-advocacy as a strategy to build confidence and independence.
• In partnership with the Service Manager, triage new referrals within contractual timescales and allocate cases to Independent Advocates
• Induct, train, supervise and support Independent Advocate volunteers
• Represent the Statutory Services by attending meetings, forums and panels, as required
• Arrange and facilitate individual and group peer support sessions for the Advocacy Team
• Liaise, communicate, and negotiate effectively with a wide range of people
• Promote the rights, equality, diversity and needs of all by ensuring they are respected and valued as individuals
• Facilitate Client Peer-Support Groups and Self-Advocacy Workshops
• Identify risks in delivering the service and ensure compliance with risk management procedures.
• Understand the relevant legislation, Codes of Practice and all organisational procedures in relation to safeguarding, including the need for timely and accurate reporting

Experience and Knowledge Needed

• Working with people who are described as vulnerable, or who have additional support needs.
• Communication suitable for a wide variety of people, some of whom may have learning disabilities, physical disabilities, mental health issues or have been assessed as lacking capacity.
• Managing work time and work priorities, managing pressure and delivering on deadlines.
• Working individually but acknowledging the importance of being part of a team
• A commitment to the belief that everyone has a right to be heard, have choice and control, to be safe from harm and to live the life they choose.
• Knowledge of the Acts governing best practice: Care Act, Mental Capacity Act and Mental Health Act

Desirable experience:

• Experience of supporting and supervising volunteers or employees
• Experience of delivering Independent Advocacy
• Experience of facilitating team and/or client meetings

 

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a great organisation making a real difference to service users in West Berkshire.

This is a part-time (22.5 hours per week), permanent home-based (although you must be located in the area due to visiting stakeholders when necessary) role offering a starting salary of £16,749.68, (FTE £27,543.92).