Safeguarding & Welfare Officer

ABOUT OLDHAM COLLEGE

Oldham College is one of the largest further education providers in Greater Manchester, supporting thousands of students each year to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need for their future.

We work closely with local employers, universities, and community partners to deliver education and training that meets the needs of our region. Our staff play a vital role in creating a supportive, inclusive environment where students and colleagues can thrive.

Every role at the College contributes to helping people achieve their potential.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking a committed Safeguarding & Welfare Officer to support the effective delivery of College services and priorities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

In this role you will:

• Support the day-to-day delivery of safeguarding across the college, ensuring timely and appropriate responses to concerns
• Assess and manage safeguarding referrals, maintaining accurate records on CPOMS
• Act as a key point of contact for staff, promoting a strong safeguarding culture and providing guidance
• Case manage learners, delivering ongoing support and developing safety/action plans
• Work closely with internal teams and external agencies to coordinate effective support for vulnerable learners
• Deliver safeguarding training and briefings to staff, including inductions
• Represent the college at external meetings and contribute to multi-agency working
• Contribute to service improvement and the development of safeguarding processes and systems
• Carry out duties in line with College policies and procedures, including safeguarding and equality commitments

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Experience working in safeguarding or student welfare, including referrals, advocacy, and multi-agency liaison
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build positive relationships with young people, staff, and external stakeholders
• Ability to manage caseloads independently, including risk assessment, action planning, and accurate record-keeping
• Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and relevant protocols, with a commitment to continuous professional development
• Confident using digital systems (e.g. databases, Microsoft/Google tools) to maintain clear and compliant records

WHY JOIN US

We offer a supportive working environment with opportunities to develop and progress. Benefits include:

• 49 days’ holiday, supporting work–life balance, including 30 bookable days plus bank holidays, efficiency days, and Christmas closure
• Pension contributions of 16.8%
• Free counselling and wellbeing support
• Retail discounts through our benefits platform
• Enhanced family-friendly policies
• Paid special leave
• Training and development opportunities
• Free breakfast Fridays
• On-site facilities including canteens and a day nursery
• Free parking and electric car scheme
• Cycle to work scheme

INCLUSION AND FLEXIBILITY

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

We are a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.

We support the Armed Forces Covenant and welcome applications from serving personnel, veterans, and military families.

Flexible working options may be available depending on the role.

SAFEGUARDING

The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

This role is subject to pre-employment checks, which may include an enhanced DBS check, DfE barred list check, online searches, and references.

It is a criminal offence under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 to apply for regulated activity roles if barred from working with children or vulnerable adults.

USE OF AI IN APPLICATIONS

We recognise that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their application. If you do use AI, please ensure the information you submit accurately reflects your own skills, experience, and achievements. You may be asked to discuss your application during the recruitment process.

HOW TO APPLY

Please review the job description and person specification and submit your application by the closing date.

Join us and be part of a College where together, we invest in your future.