Personal Advisor-Staying Close

Therefore, Hillingdon Personal Advisors will be responsible for delivering the highest quality practice to improve outcomes for young people 16+; to ensure a multi-agency approach to supporting young people by working to national legislation, policy and guidance. You will work in partnership to provide flexible support and advice to these vulnerable young people who are preparing and planning to leave care in their transition into adulthood., We value our employees and are committed to ensuring that they enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding career with us. We understand that a happy and motivated workforce is essential for the success of our organisation. That is why we offer a wide range of employee benefits to enhance your work-life balance, financial wellbeing, health, and professional development.

You will need a professional qualification in a field relevant to work with young people of this age.

This might be a youth work qualification, a post qualifying award, Connexions Personal Adviser diploma, social work, psychology, psychotherapy qualification or child care qualification.

A sound understanding of the principles of the Children Act 1989, 2004 relating to 16 to 21 year olds, the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000 Regulations and Guidance, Asylum & Immigration Act.

Understanding of safeguarding children and young people.

Relevant experience working in Schools, Youth Centres, Community Centres, or other Local Authority experiences with children and families.

At Hillingdon we're proud of our commitment of 'Putting our residents first', ensuring they're at the heart of everything we do! We want to attract talented individuals like yourself who share our aspirations for the borough and can support us to deliver exceptional services for Hillingdon.

With an ambitious strategy we pride ourselves on delivering services that improve the lives of all our residents, businesses, and partners. Embarking on a journey of continuous improvement, we've set an agenda to ensure the provision of; safer communities, a thriving local economy, a greener more sustainable environment, whilst increasing our digital capabilities.

Working at London's second largest borough can be tough, particularly with government reforms, budget restrictions, and political attention - but it's enough to keep us busy and ensures no two days are the same!

Embark on a rewarding career in Children Social Care with us, where excellence is not just a goal but a proven standard. We are proud to announce that our Children's Services have recently received an outstanding rating from OFSTED, a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care and support for children and families.

What does a Personal Advisor- Staying Close do at Hillingdon?

Personal Advisors support vulnerable young people from the age of 16 who are looked after or who have recently left care (up to the age of 25).

They may have originally been placed in care for many reasons. These can include:

• if there is significant risk of harm in the home


• if their parents/guardians are unable to care for them


• if they have complex needs and could benefit from respite care


• if they are an unaccompanied asylum seeker.


Looked after children and care leavers are a particularly vulnerable group. They may have experienced abuse, neglect and trauma and possibly been separated from their families if they are asylum seeking young children. This can lead to significant emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs, putting them at increased risk.

Care leavers are sometimes required to become independent at a younger age than their peers. They may be expected to become responsible for finding housing, employment and study opportunities without the support networks available to many other young adults. This transition can be challenging and stressful with difficulties being increased by past childhood trauma.


• Flexible Working Hours - We recognise the importance of flexibility in managing your work and personal life.


• 36 Hour Week - Enjoy a standard 36-hour workweek for all full time staff.


• Generous Holiday Entitlement - You will receive a minimum of 26 days annual leave each year, in addition to bank holidays. This entitlement increases to a maximum 37 days after 10 years of service.


Health & Wellbeing

• Hillingdon Sport Leisure - Stay active and healthy with discounts at council owned leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough.


• Cycle Purchase Scheme - Promote eco-friendly commuting with our cycle purchase scheme.


• Discount on Golf Fees - Enjoy up to 30% discounts on green fees at council owned golf courses.


• Financial Benefits - Secure your future with access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and membership to the Credit Union


• Vivup Benefits - Access a variety of offers and discounts through our Vivup Benefits.


• Eye Care - We contribute towards eye tests and lenses for Display Screen Equipment


• Mental Health Support - Our mental health first aiders are trained to identify, understand, and help employees experiencing mental health issues.


• Support and Counselling Services - Access free 24-hour confidential advice and counselling as well as a legal advice service for you and your immediate family.


Commute with Ease

• Travel Support - Make your daily commute easier with our season ticket loans and free car parking. We also provide bicycle parking, lockers, and showers at the Civic Centre.


Equity, Diversity and Equality Statement

At the London Borough of Hillingdon, we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We value the unique perspectives and experiences of all individuals, and we believe that our workforce should reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

We strive to ensure that our recruitment process is free from discrimination and bias, and we are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to applicants with disabilities. We recognise the value of a diverse workforce and encourage applications from candidates from underrepresented groups.

Join us in building a workplace where diversity is not only embraced but also celebrated, and where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to our organisation's success., We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Applicants should be aware that the post will only be offered to successful candidates subject to an Enhanced DBS check as well as other employment clearances.
Due to an expected high volume of applications, we could close this role early, we therefore recommend you apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.