Information, Advice & Support (IAS) Officer

What You’ll Be Doing  Manage a complex caseload within a defined locality   Provide high-quality, impartial advice via phone, email and face-to-face meetings   Support families to understand:  * SEND processes and legislation * Education, Health & Care (EHC) plans * The Local Offer and available services  Work directly with children, young people and families to build confidence and promote participation   Support individuals through dispute resolution, mediation and tribunal processes   Help families have their voices heard   Work collaboratively with schools, health professionals and partner agencies   Deliver training sessions, group work and engagement activities   Maintain accurate records and monitor casework to support service improvement   About You We are looking for someone who is: * Experienced in providing impartial advice and support in complex situations * Knowledgeable about SEND legislation, the SEND Code of Practice and the Children and Families Act 2014 * Skilled in communication, relationship-building and conflict resolution * Confident working both independently and as part of a team * Able to manage a demanding workload and prioritise effectively * Passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people You will also have: * A minimum of 2 A Levels (or equivalent) * Experience of working with families, children or young people * Strong organisational, IT and record-keeping skills * A commitment to equality, inclusion and safeguarding A degree or previous experience in a SEND-related role is desirable but not essential. If you are passionate about making a meaningful difference for children, young people and families, we would love to hear from you. Why Join Us? We offer hybrid working, flexible hours and a culture that prioritises wellbeing. You’ll receive 26 days’ annual leave (rising to 32 with service), 10 bank holidays, and the option to purchase additional leave. You will also have access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, an Employee Assistance Programme, and a wide range of staff discounts and salary sacrifice schemes. We value flexibility, collaboration and diverse perspectives. You’ll be part of a supportive service where your views matter, and where staff are empowered to deliver compassionate, high-quality support for children and families. How to Apply Please refer to the job description and person specification for further information on the scope and responsibilities of the role. Ensure you address all essential criteria (identified for assessment at application stage) within your supporting statement. Some criteria will also be assessed at interview. Please upload your CV and a covering letter before submitting your application. Additional documentation will not be accepted after the closing date. You will be required to provide a car for use in connection with the duties of this post and must be insured for business use. The post you are applying for is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013). If successful you will be required to apply to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) for a 'disclosure'.    If you want further information or an informal chat regarding the role, please contact:  Laura.Morris@lancashire.gov.uk [Laura.Morris@lancashire.gov.uk]   Closing Date: 5th July 2026 Proposed Interview date: 20th July 2026