Missing Practitioner

We’re growing our missing service across Dorset and are looking for caring, committed people to join the Harbour Team. You’ll work closely with children and young people who’ve been reported missing from home or care, helping them feel safe, heard and supported in a way that really makes a difference.

This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to connect with young people when they need it most, to build trust, and to be a steady, positive presence. We focus on early Return Home Interviews, meaningful relationships and creative support that puts the young person at the heart of everything.

What’s in it for you?

• work in a small, supportive team that genuinely values reflection, creativity and kindness
• manageable caseloads so you can spend time where it matters most
• opportunities to work flexibly, including evenings and weekends, to meet young people when they need you
• ongoing learning and development in restorative and therapeutic approaches
• the chance to help shape a growing, forward-thinking service that listens to both staff and young people
• be part of a wider system focused on reducing risk, preventing exploitation, and keeping children safe

What you’ll be doing

• carry out Return Home Interviews within clear timeframes, face-to-face, meaningful conversations that go beyond ticking boxes
• support young people at risk of entering care or needing placement stability, using therapeutic and restorative strategies
• find creative ways to engage those who may be reluctant to talk, this might mean trying new tools, outdoor work, or simply offering consistency
• work closely with families and professionals, keeping accurate records and always advocating for the child’s voice
• help shape service development by contributing to performance data and team learning
• act as a source of advice for colleagues and partners around missing and exploitation-related concerns

Who we’re looking for

• warm, curious people who care deeply about children and young people
• an ability to work in a fast paced environment
• great listeners who build trust and connect with others
• resilient team players who can stay calm and positive, even when things are tough
• reflective thinkers who want to keep learning and developing
• people who want to be part of something that’s making a real difference

For an informal conversation or if you have any questions please contact Louise Griffin, Deputy Manager, [email protected]

At Dorset Council, we are working together to create a fairer, more prosperous, and more sustainable Dorset for everyone, now and in the future.

We: 

• provide essential services that support over 380,000 residents 
• work in partnership to make a real difference 
• value every role and the impact it has on our communities 
• support our employees to grow, develop, and thrive 

You will: 

• be part of a team that works together for a better Dorset 
• have access to a range of benefits and support 
• have access to range of training opportunities which will help with your personal development and career progression 

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation where different skills, perspectives, and backgrounds strengthen both our council and the communities we serve. 

We welcome applications from everyone and are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. If you declare a disability and meet the essential criteria for the role, we will offer you an interview. We also want our recruitment process to be accessible. If you need any reasonable adjustments, just let us know on your application. 

This role is UK-based, and we will need to confirm your Right to Work as part of the appointment process. We use generic job descriptions and person specifications, so the job title in any attachments may differ from the advert. If needed, we will provide additional details in a context statement. 

If you’re passionate about making a difference, we’d love you to join us. 

Find out more about how to apply.