Location
London Borough of Croydon

Hours
Permanent – 36 hours per week

Salary
Grade 7 £39,519 - £40,575

About the Role
Croydon’s Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) is the ‘front door’ for all new referrals concerning children who may require early help support or children’s social care intervention. The Contact and Referral Officer plays a vital role in supporting the effective functioning of MASH, ensuring an efficient and responsive service to all enquiries. This role involves making important decisions about which services children need and supporting social workers, team managers, and multi-agency partners to build effective relationships that safeguard and support children and young people. The position offers hybrid working arrangements, combining office and remote work.

About Us
Croydon Council is committed to delivering sustainable services while listening to and respecting the diverse communities and businesses within the borough. Our priorities include financial sustainability, strong partnerships with community and voluntary sectors, good governance, and workforce development that reflects community diversity. Key business outcomes focus on creating opportunities for business and learning, ensuring children and young people thrive, maintaining a cleaner, safer, and healthier borough, and supporting people to live healthier, independent lives for longer.

Equal Opportunities Statement
Croydon Council is an inclusive employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community. We support flexible and hybrid working arrangements and guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and all staff are expected to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to a DBS check if required.

Experience
Proven experience as a Contact and Referral Officer or in a similar role within children’s social care or safeguarding services. Experience of administrative work and understanding of office procedures in a busy, sensitive public environment is essential.

About You
You are passionate about improving outcomes for children and families and have a good knowledge and understanding of safeguarding, children’s social care, early help, and the continuum of need. You demonstrate strong skills in developing collaborative and effective working relationships with a range of stakeholders. You communicate information clearly and accurately to the public, professionals, and colleagues within MASH and across the practice system. You are able to identify and escalate safeguarding concerns urgently to the relevant social worker or manager. Proficiency with ICT systems and processes is required.

Qualifications
Relevant qualifications in social care, safeguarding, or related fields are desirable but not explicitly stated. Commitment to ongoing professional development and safeguarding training is expected.