Leaving Care Personal Advisor

Birmingham Children's Trust; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A children's support organization in Birmingham seeks a Personal Advisor to aid young people transitioning from care to independence. The role involves managing a caseload, developing pathway plans, and collaborating with partner agencies. Ideal candidates should have experience with vulnerable youth and strong communication skills. This is an impactful position that requires resilience and a commitment to making a difference.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting young people in professional or voluntary settings.
• Understanding of challenges faced by care leavers and relevant legislation.
• Ability to work well under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of care leavers providing advice and support.
• Develop pathway plans for independent living.
• Promote independence through practical advice.

Skills

Relationship building

Advice on practical matters

Strong communication skills

Experience with vulnerable young people

Education

Commitment to further training, including NVQ Level 3

Job description

About the Role

As a Personal Advisor within our 18+ Care Leavers Service, you will play a crucial role in supporting young people aged 18-25 as they transition from care into independence. You will provide statutory support, ensuring pathway plans are in place and that young people are equipped with the skills, opportunities, and confidence to thrive in adulthood. This is a rewarding role where you\'ll make a real difference – whether through direct 1:1 support, group work, or inter-agency collaboration. You\'ll help care leavers access education, training, employment, housing, and health services, while ensuring they remain at the centre of their own plans.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of care leavers, providing advice, guidance and emotional support.
• Develop and review pathway plans with young people to prepare them for independent living.
• Promote independence by offering advice on budgeting, housing, education, employment and training.
• Build positive relationships with young people, even when they are challenging or hard to engage.
• Work closely with partner agencies (housing, health, education, police, probation, etc.) to secure the best outcomes for care leavers.
• Keep accurate, up-to-date records using electronic case management systems.
• Provide a duty/referral service as required, offering advice and responding to immediate needs.

About You

We\'re looking for someone who is passionate about improving outcomes for care leavers, with experience of supporting young people in a professional or voluntary setting. You will be resilient, approachable, and able to work well under pressure.

• Experience of working with young people (up to age 25 if in higher education), particularly those who are vulnerable, at risk, homeless or care-experienced.
• The ability to build strong, supportive relationships with young people, their families, and professionals.
• Confidence in advising on practical matters such as budgeting, housing, education and employment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• An understanding of the challenges faced by care leavers, as well as relevant legislation and policy.
• A commitment to equality, diversity, and anti-discriminatory practice.
• A willingness to undertake further training, including to NVQ Level 3, is essential.

Note: This role is within Birmingham Children\'s Trust, which is dedicated to making a lasting difference for children, young people and families.