Best Start Inclusion Practitioner (SEND)

We are looking for enthusiastic and committed practitioners to join our new Best Start Inclusion Team, supporting children aged 0-5 years with emerging additional needs and their families. Based within our Best Start Family Hubs, you will deliver flexible, hands-on support in hubs, community settings and family homes, helping to identify needs early and improve children's developmental outcomes. There are opportunities available at various locations across County Durham, with preferred locations discussed at interview. We have both part-time (18.5 hours per week) and full-time (37 hours per week) posts available. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a new and evolving service, working alongside a range of professionals as part of a multi-agency team to ensure families can access the right support at the right time. WHAT IS INVOLVED? You will;

• Work directly with children and families to identify and respond to emerging SEND needs
• Provide practical advice, model inclusive practice and deliver short interventions
• Support families to access services and navigate pathways, including for complex needs
• Use evidence-based tools (e.g. WellComm, ELIM) to assess development and inform support
• Deliver and evaluate group-based activities and programmes, including stay and play sessions
• Work collaboratively with professionals across health, education, SEND and community sectors
• Promote inclusive practice across early years and family support services
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to measuring outcomes and impact
  
  A Level 3 qualification in a relevant field (e.g. childcare, early years, health, youth work)
• Experience working with children aged 0-5 and families, including those with SEND
• Experience of multi-agency working
• Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and early child development
• Experience delivering group activities or interventions
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Please refer to the attached Person Specification for the full criteria. If successful, you will be required to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service Enhanced Disclosure.

We offer a competitive rewards package that includes attractive salaries, a generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days (rising to 32 after five years' continuous local government service), membership of the excellent contributory career average Local Government Pension Scheme, and a range of flexible working arrangements including hybrid working (home and office) where applicable. Explore the full range of rewards and benefits on our website