This is a new and exciting position for a Family Support Worker to join Combat Stress and work alongside the NHS as part of Op Courage throughout the North of England.
About us
Combat Stress is the UK’s leading mental health charity for veterans. For over a century, we’ve been helping former service personnel deal with issues such as post‑traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from military service. We have teams across the UK providing online and in‑person treatment and support depending on the individual’s needs and circumstances.
About the role
The role is virtual but requires travel within the North of England to Op Courage locations when necessary. Candidates should preferably reside in this area and be able to create relationships with local authorities throughout the UK. The successful candidate will act as a liaison between the charity and the statutory sector in matters pertaining to safeguarding.
Responsibilities
- Provide clear information, raise awareness and offer practical support for veterans and their families in financial, social and welfare matters.
- Deliver one‑to‑one and group support to veterans’ families.
- Refer to and provide information about other services at national, regional and local levels.
- Advocate for veterans and their families where appropriate.
- Facilitate groups both online and in person.
- Arrange meetings with veterans, families and the clinical team when necessary.
- Record details of interactions with veterans’ families on the Electronic Patient Record.
- Maintain and manage a caseload of families referred to the Family Support Service within Op Courage.
- Present a professional image and promote the organisation positively to veterans, families, stakeholders, partner organisations and the public.
- Participate in supervision and reflect on interpersonal dynamics.
- Respond to safeguarding concerns as required.
- Contribute as a dynamic and innovative member of the multi‑disciplinary team.
- Recognise personal and professional boundaries and work within Combat Stress and/or NHS governance frameworks at all times.
- Prepare reports on veteran group performance and service development and communicate updates through varied media.
Qualifications
- Excellent presentation skills.
- A high standard of assessment, case planning and case recording.
- Evidence of Continuing Professional Development.
- A driving licence and use of a car for work purposes.
- Able to manage challenging situations and encourage courageous conversations.
- Advanced group facilitation skills.
- Has either recovered from a mental health problem as a result of service, or is working within mental health and possesses a high level of knowledge regarding mental health conditions commonly experienced by veterans and their families.
- Previous experience working therapeutically.
- Previously worked in a multi‑disciplinary team.
- Advocacy experience particularly supporting welfare, social and financial needs.
Skills & Knowledge
- Approachable and able to build rapport to foster professional relationships.
- Ability to participate in supervision and reflective practice sessions.
- Demonstrated interest or experience in delivering family support within the veteran community.
- Demonstrated experience and skills in welfare, social and financial advocacy.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a submission to Disclosure and Barring Service to check for prior convictions.
What we offer
- 27 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days after 5 years and 33 days after 10 years of continuous service, plus bank holidays.
- Competitive stakeholder pension scheme – contributions matched up to 11% of salary.
- Access to the Employee Assistance Programme.
- Access to Blue Light Card scheme.
- Death in Service Scheme.
- Home‑based role with flexible working arrangements.
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