Family Support Worker

Duration: 12 months with a possibility of extension

Africa Advocacy Foundation (AAF) started in 1996 and works to support and empower individuals and families experiencing multiple disadvantages and barriers including ill health, violence, poverty, isolation, human, racial and social injustices.

AAF works with migrant women including undocumented and those with no recourse to public funds. Apart from experiencing domestic abuse, some of our women are also HIV positive, have undergone FGM, are historical child brides and remain vulnerable and without support. We are looking for a qualified Family Support Worker with knowledge and understanding of gender-based violence, the cultural, faith and language needs of our women and children affected by abuse including harmful cultural practices.

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Family Support Worker to join our team. The successful candidate will work closely with the African diaspora communities, providing essential support services to women and children affected and at risk of abuse. This role involves working directly with clients to offer guidance, support, and resources to improve their well-being and quality of life.

• A Family Support Worker with understanding of the barriers faced by migrant black women who are faced with violence and with complex needs.
• Empathetic, trauma-informed and non-judgmental approach.
• Adaptability:
  Flexibility to adjust to changing circumstances and client needs.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.

• AAF offers opportunities for ongoing training and professional development
• In service insurance protection
• Flexible Working
• 28 days annual leave
• Excellent team building sessions and supervision

• Provide direct support and advocacy for families within the African diaspora and communities, addressing their unique needs and challenges.

• Manage a caseload of clients, conducting assessments, developing individualised support plans, and monitoring progress.

• Connect families with appropriate resources and services, including housing, healthcare, education, employment, and legal assistance.

• Offer immediate support and intervention during crises, ensuring the safety and stability of families.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with community organisations, service providers, and other stakeholders to enhance service delivery and support networks.

• Utilise culturally sensitive approaches to engage and support clients effectively, respecting their cultural backgrounds and values.

• Advocate for the rights and needs of clients within various systems, including schools, healthcare facilities, social services and legal services.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of client interactions, progress, and outcomes in accordance with organisational policies and confidentiality requirements.

• Lead on facilitating learning opportunities for services users and community members on relevant topics such as parenting, conflict management, financial literacy, and relevant service access.
• Collaborate with colleagues and participate in regular team meetings to share insights, discuss cases, and contribute to the continuous improvement of services.

• Proven experience of working with disadvantaged families, preferably within the African diaspora and marginalised communities.
• Relevant qualification in health and social work or family support are preferred.
• Strong understanding of the challenges faced by the African diaspora and marginalised communities.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to promote user rights, safeguarding, diverse caseload management and to work independently.
• Proficiency in a second language commonly spoken within the African diaspora community is an asset (e.g., Swahili, Amharic, French etc).
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their suitability for…