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We are looking for an enthusiastic, compassionate and dedicated individual to join our team as an Inclusive Play 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 positive difference in the lives of children and young people with disabilities. You will support the delivery of safe, inclusive and engaging activities that promote fun, social interaction, confidence and personal development for children and young people aged 4-18 across Thurrock.

About the Role

Successful applicants will be required to:'

Provide direct support to children and young people aged 4-18 attending the Disabled Children’s Short Breaks and Outreach Service.
Assist in the preparation, delivery and maintenance of resources, equipment and activities.
Help maintain a safe, clean and welcoming environment that promotes learning, play and development.
Develop positive relationships with the children and young people.
Support children to make choices, express their views and engage in meaningful activities.
Work collaboratively with colleagues to provide a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment
Support with the safe administration of medication where required (full training is provided)
Complete relevant training to ensure high quality support and effective advocacy for children and young people where appropriate
Follow safeguarding procedures and report any concerns relating to the welfare of children and young people.
Promote independence and life skills development through positive engagement and support.
Maintain accurate records, reports and required documentation.
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
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 Child 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): 16th July 2026

Closing Date (Internal & External): 22nd August 2026

Interview Date: To Be Confirmed

Additional Information

For an informal discussion about these posts, 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 is required for all Safeguarding roles. 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

About us

Why Thurrock?

Working at Thurrock Council gives you the opportunity to join an organisation that is changing at pace, one where you can make a real difference to the lives of the people we serve.

Thurrock Council is moving towards a new community leadership approach which involves linking with local partners and communities as we shape our improvement for the years ahead.

This is an exciting time to join us, to shape the future success of our changing organisation and to have a positive influence on our borough.

Our location

Thurrock is located on the north bank of the river Thames. Our urban centres are a vibrant mix of established towns and new young communities, with a diverse and growing population of around 160,000 residents.

We are an emerging cultural and arts centre, home to the production centre for the Royal Opera House and the National Skills Academy for Creative and Cultural Skills. We have excellent retail and leisure opportunities, including Lakeside Shopping Centre, country parks, forests, and marshes.

Thurrock is just half an hour journey away from the centre of London by train and well connected by road.

Staff benefits

We offer lots of staff benefits, including a generous annual leave entitlement and hybrid working. We champion flexible working and job share applications are welcome.

Further information can be found here Employment benefits | Working for the council | Thurrock Council

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Thurrock Council is committed to equal opportunities. As a Disability Confident Employer, disabled people will be offered an interview where they meet all essential criteria on the person specification.

We serve a diverse community where people are different yet equal. Diversity underpins everything we do.

For further information about Thurrock Council please visit our website: Thurrock Council

Salary range

£15.16 per hour