Job Overview:
The role of Family Support Specialist is to provide holistic case management to children and young people in kinship care. This involves working in partnership with Child Protection and other support services.
The primary goal is to support placement stability, with tailored supports for the needs of the placement, including the kinship carer and family.
This requires effective trauma-informed support planning, taking into account complex issues related to drug and alcohol, family violence, mental health, disadvantage, and poverty, resulting in chronic neglect and/or cumulative harm.
Best practice approaches and the Looking After Children (LAC) framework will guide this work.
Service delivery occurs primarily through outreach to children, young people, and carers in their homes.
Key areas include risk assessment and effective support planning for a range of complex issues.
The program operates across Brimbank Melton LGAs in Victoria.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
* Effective communication and interpersonal skills
* Ability to work with diverse populations and build strong relationships
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
* Knowledge of child protection principles and practices
Benefits:
Working as a Family Support Specialist provides the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people in kinship care.
This role is part of a dedicated team working towards improving outcomes for vulnerable populations.
The role reports directly to the Kinship Care Team Leader and indirectly to the Care and Support Services Manager.
Others:
The successful applicant will be required to undergo training and professional development to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the role effectively.