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Role Title: Parent Carer Representative
Project: Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS)
Location: All over Hackney
Hours: Sessional (approx. 2-3 hours a week, hours will fluctuate)
Rate of Pay: £15 per hour
Duration: 9 Months

Overview:

Hackney SEND Parent Carer Forum (HSPCF) is seeking two to three dedicated people from our parent carer membership to support the Parent Carer Representative on the Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS) Project. This initiative aims to create more inclusive environments for neurodivergent children in Hackney schools, ensuring that they receive the support and resources they need to thrive.

This is a paid opportunity, ideal for HSPCF members who are passionate about education, special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and neurodiversity. You will gain valuable experience working closely with schools, local authorities, and the community to advocate for children’s educational inclusion.

Key Responsibilities:

• Represent the Hackney SEND Parent Carer Forum: Assist with tasks such as attending meetings online and in-person, engaging with parents, carers, and stakeholders involved in the PINS Project.
• Engage with Schools and Communities: Help facilitate conversations between schools, the PCF and parents and carers to ensure that the voices of neurodivergent children and their families are heard.
• Collect and Share Feedback: Gather feedback from parents, carers, and educators to inform discussions and decisions about inclusion practices in schools.
• Raise Awareness of SEND Issues: Help organise events, share information, and promote the work of the PINS Project to ensure that more people understand and support inclusion.
• Contribute to Advocacy Efforts: use your skills and experience to work with experts in SEND to develop strategies and initiatives that promote best practices for inclusion in schools.
• Team work: Work alongside other parents and carers and City & Hackney Carers centre staff to deliver this unique project.

Benefits:

• Paid Opportunity: Earn £15 per hour while contributing to a meaningful project.
• Work with Experts: Gain hands-on experience working alongside SEND and neurodiversity specialists.
• Skill Development: Build skills in community engagement, project support, and advocacy work.
• Make a Difference: Play a key role in creating positive change for neurodivergent children in Hackney schools.
• Flexibility: This role is sessional and will involve 2-3 hours each week. The work can be fitted around a caring role.

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Person Specification: Parent Carer Representative – PINS project

The ideal candidates for this role will be passionate, committed, and eager to contribute to the Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS) Project. Below are the key qualifications, skills, qualities, and experiences we are looking for:

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Essential Criteria

1. Qualifications

• Educated up to A-Level or equivalent.
• English and Maths GCSE (Grade C/4 or above) or equivalent qualifications.

2. Passion for Neurodiversity and SEND

• Lived experience as a parent or carer of a child or young person with SEND.
• Demonstrated commitment to supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
• A strong desire to make a positive impact on the lives of SEND children and their families.

3. Strong Communication Skills

• Ability to engage effectively with parents, carers, school staff, and other stakeholders.
• Confidence in both written and verbal communication, ensuring clear, concise, and respectful exchanges.
• Able to listen actively and gather feedback from a diverse group of people.

4. Organisational Skills

• Ability to manage and prioritise tasks efficiently, including attending meetings and supporting project activities.
• Capable of maintaining records, organising reports, and managing time effectively.

5. Collaboration and Teamwork

• Experience or willingness to work within a team-focused environment, collaborating with others to achieve shared goals.
• Respect for diverse opinions, and the ability to contribute constructively to discussions and planning.

6. Willingness to Learn and Develop

• Open to gaining knowledge about SEND, neurodiversity, and inclusive education practices.
• Enthusiasm for working with professionals and experts in the field, seeking out opportunities for personal and professional growth.

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Desirable Criteria

1. Community Engagement Experience

• Prior experience working in community projects, volunteering, or supporting advocacy work.
• Familiarity with Hackney’s schools, communities, or local services would be a plus.

3. Knowledge of Education and School Systems

• Some knowledge or interest in how school systems work, especially in relation to inclusion practices.
• Understanding of the challenges that schools face in supporting children with SEND.

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Personal Attributes

Empathy and Patience

• Ability to show understanding and compassion towards the needs of children and their families, particularly those facing challenges related to SEND.

Reliability and Commitment

• A dependable individual who takes responsibility seriously and is committed to contributing to the success of the PINS Project.

Flexibility

• Willingness to adapt to changing circumstances or needs within the project, including adjusting working hours to accommodate meetings or events when necessary.

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How to Apply:

Please send a cover letter and CV via e-mail to Joanna.brunt@hackneycarers.org.uk stating your interest and how you meet the requirements of the job description.