Family Group Conference Convenors

We Manage Jobs(WMJobs); West Midlands; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A children's services organization seeks Family Group Conferencing Convenors for a 12-month fixed-term contract in West Midlands. This role focuses on empowering families to make informed decisions regarding their children's futures. Candidates should have relevant qualifications and experience in childcare, group facilitation, and an understanding of family dynamics. This position offers a supportive environment and the opportunity to make a significant difference in children's lives.

Benefits

Generous annual leave of up to 31 days

Birthday off

Local government pension scheme with 21.6% employer contribution

Competitive mileage expenses

Comprehensive employee benefits scheme

Qualifications

• Experience in childcare/Children’s Services.
• Experience in family work and/or group facilitation.
• Understanding of family dynamics and processes.

Responsibilities

• Act as an independent and neutral facilitator planning Family Group Conferences.
• Work closely with children, families, and professionals to ensure inclusive meetings.
• Support and test new approaches to Family-Led Decision Making.

Skills

Mediation skills

Negotiation skills

Facilitation skills

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Education

Degree or equivalent qualification in health, education, social care, or related field

Job description

At Sandwell Children's Trust, we firmly believe that the voice of the child should be at the centre of everything we do. We are on an ambitious journey to ensure that children and families in Sandwell are safe and empowered to thrive.

What we can offer you

Generous annual leave of up to 31 days, plus 5 additional days for long service recognition.

Your birthday off paid in addition to annual leave entitlement and 8 Bank Holidays, plus a concessionary day at Christmas.

You will receive a generous local government career average pension scheme with employer contributions of 21.6%.

We recognise individual loyalty with service awards from 2, 5, 10 and every 5 years onwards.

Flexible working patterns that suit you and all of our roles have well‑defined career progression.

We provide competitive expenses for both mileage (55p per mile) and subsistence, plus access to a comprehensive employee benefits scheme.

Please visit The Sandwell Deal via this hyperlink: https://sandwelldeal.co.uk/

Band E SCP 18 - 25 (£31,537 - £36,363 per annum) dependent upon experience

Hours - 37 per week

12 months fixed term contract

We are seeking dedicated, passionate and skilled Family Group Conferencing Convenors to join our Family Group Conferencing Service. This role will focus on supporting and testing new approaches to Family‑Led Decision Making as part of the Families First Programme.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children and families by facilitating Family Group Conferences that empower families to make informed decisions about their future.

About the Service

The FGC Service works with families across Sandwell to help them plan and make decisions for children who may be at risk. We bring together the child’s family and extended network to create a safe care plan—developed by the family and supported by our team in partnership with other agencies.

About the Role

Sandwell Children’s Trust is seeking Family Group Conference Convenors on a 12‑month temporary basis to help test Family‑Led Decision Making linked to the Families First Programme. The role requires flexibility, including occasional evenings and weekends, to meet the needs of our diverse community.

As an FGC Convenor, you will act as an independent and neutral facilitator, planning, coordinating, and chairing Family Group Conferences and reviews. You will work closely with children, families, and professionals to ensure meetings are inclusive, respectful, and focused on achieving positive outcomes for children.

Why Join Us?

At Sandwell Children’s Trust, we are committed to improving outcomes for children and families. You will be part of a supportive team that values innovation, diversity, and professional development.

• Be at the forefront of national reform in children’s social care.
• Work in a supportive, forward‑thinking and thriving environment.
• Opportunity to make a real and lasting difference in the lives of children and families.

What We’re Looking For

You will need to demonstrate:

• A degree or equivalent professional qualification in health, education, social care, or a related field; or significant relevant experience in a childcare setting.
• Experience in childcare/Children’s Services.
• Experience in family work and/or group facilitation.
• Skills in mediation, negotiation, and facilitation with individuals and groups.
• Knowledge of the Children Act and other relevant legislation to support to role.
• Understanding of family dynamics and processes.
• Awareness of issues such as substance misuse, child abuse, domestic violence, youth offending, and other child welfare concerns.
• Sensitivity to culturally diverse communities and a commitment to anti‑discriminatory practice.
• Resilience, diplomacy and confidence in chairing large meetings.
• Organisational and communication skills.

To apply please click on the link below to complete an application form and view the Sandwell Deal: https://sandwelldeal.co.uk/apply/

Sandwell Children's Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable groups including children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Completion of an enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check is a requirement for working with children and young people.

If you require further information on the role or working for us please email [e-mail] and a member of our Recruitment Team will be happy to give you a call.