To fulfil the requirements within the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000 in accordance with local and national policies, procedures and standards. To assist young people in successfully leaving the care of the Local Authority and taking up opportunities which will improve their life chances and transition into adulthood. To be centrally involved with eligible, relevant, former relevant and qualifying young people in accessing, planning, developing and delivering support services. The role will be a case holding role and will support young people between 17-25yrs old who are leaving or have left LA care. Key duties and responsibilities: To act as the Personal Advisor to young people and to ensure that delivery and co- ordination of services are achieved as under The Leaving Care Act 2000. To maintain a caseload as key worker to care leavers. To co-work eligible young people with Social Worker and contribute to the planning process. To advise and support young people aged 16-21 (25 if in training or education) who are preparing or who have left care as they make their transition to the responsibilities of adulthood. To undertake the Pathway Plan and Pathway Plan Review for care leavers and to ensure these are developed, implemented, monitored and reviewed within statutory timescales. To undertake planned and outcome focused direct work with young people individually and in group work to build self –esteem and the necessary skills needed to lead successful, independent lives. To ensure that there are comprehensive contingency planning arrangements in place for care leavers. To support and encourage young people to; develop and maintain links within the community, access health and leisure services, maintain their accommodation, access education, training and employment opportunities, promote positive relationships, and maintain family links. Topromoteandencouragefullinvolvement,consultationandparticipationofyoung people in the development and delivery of the service. To work proactively with Social Workers and other professionals from a range of statutory, voluntary and charitable organisations to ensure the young person has access to resources and services. To prepare reports, contribute and attend statutory Children in Care Reviews, court hearings, multi-agency meetings including Child Protection conferences and strategy meetings. To act as an advocate for young people, encourage them to access independent advocacy and legal services and to ensure that young people are aware of the complaints procedure. The candidates must have: Substantial and demonstrable experience of working with children and families in particular adolescents Understanding of the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000 and other relevant up to date legislation. Experience of establishing and maintaining effective relationships with other agencies/ professionals. To demonstrate an understanding of the needs of the service users. Understanding of an assessment process in order to develop plans and implement care packages. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Positive attitude to user group. To report and record information to a high standard ensuring confidentiality. Competent in the use of basic IT packages. An interest in activities such as music, arts, sporting activities. An ability to work in partnership with the parents, family members and carers of the user group Vocational qualification level 3 in Care (or equivalent) in a related field e.g. Social Work, Health, Education, Youth Work Flexible approach to work by responding to the needs of the services including, at times, requirements to work beyond normal working hours Commitment to own continuous personal and professional development Strong team player, committed to an ethos of continuous improvement