Community Life Skills Practitioner

We are looking for an enthusiastic, compassionate and dedicated individual to join our team as a Community Life Skills Practitioner within the Disabled Children’s Short Breaks and Outreach Service.

This is a rewarding and varied role that offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people with disabilities across Thurrock. You will support and encourage independence through community-based activities and targeted life skills sessions delivered in an accessible and inclusive environment.

The successful applicant will:

Provide direct support to children and young people with disabilities aged 6-18.

Assist children and young people in accessing community based activities and targeted life skill sessions.

Support with the safe administration of medication when required (full training is provided)

Complete relevant training to effectively support, advise and advocate for children and young people where necessary

Monitor and report any changes in behaviour, wellbeing or safeguarding concerns to senior staff.

Maintain accurate records, reports and required documentation.

Promote independence and life skills development through positive engagement and support.

Encourage social interaction, communication and friendship-building among peers.

Support the planning, organisation and delivery of safe, inclusive and enjoyable activities.

Work collaboratively as part of a team to provide a high-quality service for children and young people in Thurrock.

Demonstrate professional, effective and respectful communication with colleagues, children, young people and their families.

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications and Experience

Essential:

A genuine passion for supporting children and young people with disabilities.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently when required.

Commitment to promoting inclusion, independence and positive outcomes for children and young people

Desirable (but not essential)

Level 3 qualification in childcare

Previous experience working with disabled children and young people

Experience delivering community-based activities, youth work or life skills program's

Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and inclusive practice

We welcome applications from individuals who may not meet all of the desirable criteria but can demonstrate values, enthusiasm and commitment required for the role.

DBS Check: Enhanced DBS Check with Children's Barred List is required for this role.

Benefits of Working with Us

At Thurrock Council, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Generous annual leave entitlement

Local Government Pension Scheme

Flexible and hybrid working opportunities (where applicable)

Ongoing training and professional development

Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support

Staff discounts and local offers

A supportive and inclusive working environment

Important Dates

Closing Date (Redeployment Only): 15th October 2026

Closing Date (Internal & External): 25th October 2026

Interview Date: To Be Confirmed

Additional Information

For an informal discussion about this post, please contact Lauren Riddick, Centre Manager or Laura Hayden or Jackie Harper Deputy Manager’s on 01375 652200.

To view the Job Profile and Person Specification, please follow the link below:

Download Job Profile (PDF Document)

Application Requirements

As part of the Safer Recruitment process, Gap Management is required for all Safeguarding roles from when leaving full-time education. Please complete the Gaps in Employment grid provided (refer to the example document for guidance) and upload it under Miscellaneous Documents as part of your application. Please provide a full history with explanations of any gaps and ensure you also upload a copy of your full CV.

If the Job Profile and Person Specification list any qualifications as essential, please also upload copies of those relevant qualifications.

Gaps in Employment Form

Gaps in Employment Example