- Internal Applicants Only*
Salary: �40,777 � �41,771
Hours: 37 hours per week
Workbase: An identified Family Hub or Council office base within Cumberland � to be agreed with the candidate
Contract: This is a full-time post, initially from September 2025 � 31st March 2026, with the possibility to extend.
We are looking to recruit an proactive individual to review, further develop and coordinate the Portage Service that is available to young children with special educational needs and disabilities, and their families, in Cumberland.
Earlier this year, the Portage service transferred from a previous commissioned service provider, to the council. We now wish to review this service in order to align and embed it across our services and teams. You will ensure that the Portage Service provides a high quality and accessible service for families
You will be a champion for best inclusive and anti-discrimatory practice and will be an inspiring leader who will drive collaboration across Family Hub teams, SEND, Learning Improvement, Education and Health Partners. You will prioritise the involvement of families of children with additional needs in shaping the offer and its ongoing development
As a key member of the Family Hubs Leadership Team, you will drive forward improvement and help us to ensure that our Family Hubs are welcoming, inclusive and enable children to have the best start in life.
About This Opportunity
We are seeking individuals who embody our organisation's core values: ambitious, collaborative, compassionate, empowering, and innovative. We believe in the power of these values to drive positive change and shape a better future for our communities. Your commitment to these principles will be instrumental in delivering services that are vital to the well-being and prosperity of our communities, children and young people.
If this sounds like you, then please get in touch!
We believe in cultivating potential over perfection. If this job sounds like you and you resonate with our values we encourage you to apply or contact our Early Years Strategic
[email protected] to arrange an informal chat prior to your application.
Cumberland Council is proud to hold an Ofsted rating of 'Good� for our Children�s Services, demonstrating our dedication and strong commitment to providing high-quality services for children and families. Ofsted recognised that staff unanimously report a �real buzz about working in Cumberland� and that they feel �energised, valued and listened to�, observing that �leaders have established a strong Cumberland identity that staff can be proud of�.
Interview information
Closing date: Wednesday 10th September
Interview date:Tuesday 16th September
DBS
Conducting Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks is integral to our commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for our staff and the communities we serve. These checks play a crucial role in safeguarding, ensuring that individuals with appropriate qualifications and character are entrusted with roles where they may have access to children and vulnerable people. By prioritising DBS checks, we uphold the highest standards of integrity, reinforcing our dedication to the well-being and trust of those we engage with.
This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 and requires an enhanced DBS check.
Please note this role involves working in regulated activity with adults and Children. It is an offence for people who are barred from working in regulated activity to apply for roles that require them to work unsupervised with adults and Children.
Work-Life balance
Cumberland Council is deeply invested in fostering a work culture that prioritises the well-being and balance of our team members. Embracing flexible and hybrid working models, we empower employees to achieve optimal work-life balance.
Recognising the importance of personal time, we offer a generous holiday allowance, providing ample opportunity for rest and rejuvenation. Additionally, our flexible working hours, including flexitime arrangements, further contribute to a supportive environment where individuals can effectively manage their professional and personal commitments.
Continuing Professional Development
We are committed to nurturing the ongoing growth and professional advancement of our valued team members to fulfil your potential and advance your career. Our comprehensive career development and training offer emphasises continuous learning as a cornerstone for achieving both individual and organisational goals. Through our robust Organisational Development initiatives, we offer a suite of support programmes tailored to meet diverse needs, including participation in our esteemed Aspiring to be a Manager programme and access to our enriching Coaching and Mentoring programmes.
Keeping the people we work with safe
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expect unwavering commitment to this cause from our employees, volunteers, and the Externally Provided Workforce (EPWs). Together, we create a secure environment where every individual is safeguarded and respected.
We welcome applications from everyone
At Cumberland Council, we are dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce, striving to mirror the rich tapestry of the communities we proudly serve. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are devoted in fostering an inclusive, supportive culture that embraces and appreciates our unique differences.
As a proud Disability Confident Employer, we ensure that applicants with disabilities, meeting the essential criteria for this position, are guaranteed an interview as part of our commitment to equal opportunities. Your diverse perspectives and talents contribute to our collective success.
We're also an Age Friendly Employer, meaning we commit to providing an inclusive workplace for people in their 50s and 60s and taking the necessary action to help them flourish in a multigenerational workforce. We recognise the importance of mature workers and aim to provide an environment on which they can thrive.
Reasonable Adjustments:We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. If you require any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let either the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team know on;
[email protected]. We will ensure that these adjustments are made to accommodate your needs.
Your Voice Matters; Connect, Engage, and Make Your Voice Heard!
We don't just encourage engagement�we celebrate it. That's why we've cultivated a vibrant community of staff networking groups where every voice matters.
These groups are more than just forums�they're hubs of innovation and inclusion, dedicated to sparking fresh ideas, challenging the status quo, and championing equality and fairness for all. From exploring new perspectives to shaping policies that reflect our diverse workforce, our staff networks play a pivotal role in driving positive change.
Join Us And Become Part Of Something Bigger
- Race Equality
- Rainbow Alliance
- Menopause Support
- Carers Network
- Shine Community
- Wellbeing/Health Advocates
- Be a Change Champion to shape our council's future through transformative initiatives.
Please Read The Supporting Information
Please also refer to our Careers site to find out more:
- Our Staff Benefits
- Candidate Support
- About Cumberland Council
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