Job Title: Independent Visitor Service Coordinator
Location: Newham (with some travel for out-of-area children and visiting children and young people in area)
Hours: 22 hours a week
Reports to: Children’s Services Service Manager
Responsible for: Independent Visitor Service (Newham)
Start date: 1st August 2026
Key Tasks
Purpose of the Role
To manage the day-to-day delivery of the Independent Visitor (IV) service in Newham and for out-of-area children and young people. This includes recruiting and training volunteers, matching them with children and young people, providing ongoing support, and ensuring the service is child-led, safe, and delivered to a high standard.
Key Responsibilities
Service Management
- Oversee the daily running of the Independent Visitor service.
- Manage referrals, case allocations, and matching of children with volunteers.
- Conduct initial visits with young people and complete all associated paperwork.
- Maintain accurate case records, databases, and monitoring systems.
- Develop and implement strategic plans for Reconstruct’s Children’s Services in consultation with the line manager and colleagues.
- Complete quarterly reports for commissioners.
Volunteer Recruitment and Support
- Recruit, train, and supervise Independent Visitor volunteers.
- Develop and maintain a pool of volunteers to meet service needs.
- Provide ongoing support, including email and telephone contact, peer-to-peer support sessions, and supervision.
- Authorise and monitor volunteers’ out-of-pocket expenses on a monthly basis.
Children and Young People
- Meet with children and young people to identify the most suitable Independent Visitor match.
- Ensure all children and young people are safeguarded at all times.
- Undertake risk assessments for children, young people, and activities.
- Involve young people in shaping and developing the service.
- Respond promptly and appropriately to the needs of children and young people.
Partnership and Promotion
- Promote the service to professionals, carers, and families.
- Liaise with social workers, carers, and other professionals on behalf of young people.
- Represent the service at meetings, planning days, and peer sessions.
Other Duties
- Work independently while contributing to a supportive team culture.
- Maintain confidentiality, GDPR compliance, and adherence to all Reconstruct policies.
- Attend training, supervision, and team planning sessions as required.
- Undertake additional duties consistent with the role, as specified by the Head of Services or nominated staff.
- Carry out any other tasks reasonably required to ensure the effective delivery of the Independent Visitor service
- Support the advocacy service when required
Additional Requirements
- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends where required.
- Willingness to travel to visit young people; access to a car and a valid driving licence are essential.
Person SpecificationSkills and Aptitudes
- Strong computer skills (e.g. word processing, emails, database management).
- Ability to maintain accurate records and administration systems.
- Effective communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
Knowledge and Experience
- Experience of working directly with children and young people.
- Understanding of safeguarding and child protection (essential; training can be provided).
- Commitment to equality, diversity, and anti-discriminatory practice.
- (Desirable) Experience of working in a social care setting.
- (Desirable) Knowledge of the care system and relevant legislation.
- (Desirable) Experience delivering training or small group sessions.
Education and Training
- Educated to at least Level 4 (or equivalent), with a good standard of English (GCSE grade C or above).
- (Desirable) A relevant qualification in social work, youth and community work, education, or related field.
Other Requirements
- Clean driving licence and access to a car.
- Flexibility to work outside office hours if required.
- Satisfactory enhanced DBS check.
Pay: £16,931.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Sick pay
- Work from home
Education:
- GCSE or equivalent (preferred)
Experience:
- Administrative experience: 1 year (preferred)
- working with children: 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Newham (Greater London, Greater London Region)
