Safeguarding and Education Welfare Officer

Job Introduction

The Education Welfare and Engagement Team is a dedicated group of professionals committed to supporting children and young people across Lincolnshire. Our Safeguarding and Education Welfare Officers play a vital role in helping the local authority meet its statutory duties around school attendance, children missing education (CME), elective home education (EHE), child employment, and safeguarding in education settings.

We are now looking for a passionate and knowledgeable individual to join our team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is highly motivated, organised, and committed to improving outcomes for children and young people.

In this role, you will:

• Provide expert advice and support to schools, academies, and other education providers on attendance, CME, EHE, and safeguarding matters.
• Manage a caseload of complex cases, working directly with children, families, and professionals to overcome barriers to education.
• Support the local authority’s statutory responsibilities, including preparing legal proceedings where necessary.
• Support with training and briefings to schools and partners on safeguarding and attendance procedures.
• Work collaboratively with a wide range of services including Police, Health, Border Control, and Children’s Services.
• Contribute to service development and continuous improvement within the team.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience working within education welfare, safeguarding, or a related field.
• Understands the legislation and guidance around EHE, CME, and school attendance.
• Is a confident communicator, able to build strong relationships with schools, families, and partner agencies.
• Can manage competing priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Is confident using data and IT systems to support casework and reporting.
• Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Applicants may wish to familiarise themselves with the: Elective Home Education: Guidance for Local Authorities:  View on GOV.UK

Children Missing Education: Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities: View on GOV.UK

Why join us?

You’ll be part of a supportive and forward-thinking team that values collaboration, innovation, and making a difference. This is a rewarding role where your work will have a direct impact on the lives of children and families across Lincolnshire.

For an informal chat about the role, please contact: Helen Masters-Brown Team Leader for Elective Home Education (EHE) and Children Missing Education (CME) helen.masters-brown@lincolnshire.gov.uk

Applications close on the 17th August, interviews will take place on 1st September 2025 in Sleaford

Please be advised that this position may be subject to a criminal record check.

All candidates are advised to read the attached job information pack prior to making an application.

On occasion we receive significantly more applications than expected for some vacancies and under such circumstances we reserve the right to bring forward the closing date of the advertisement. We therefore strongly advise you to apply for the role promptly to avoid disappointment should the closing date be brought forward. 

We operate a talent pool scheme whereby candidates who are not successful on this occasion may be considered for a period of up to 3 months for equal positions.

Lincolnshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

A Smarter Working Employer

We have embraced new ways of working and hybrid working will be a feature of this role. You will be given a nominated contractual work base and you will be required to commute to this work base when necessary.  Working arrangements regarding hybrid working will be discussed as part of the appointment process.

Our technology platform and equipment is very good enabling you to connect and collaborate remotely. We require that you have in place good connectivity, and we will discuss during the recruitment process if support with this is needed.

Fluency Duty 

In accordance with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 (Fluency Duty), the ability to converse at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post.