Habilitation Specialist

About the job

What will I be doing?

As a Habilitation Specialist, you’ll help children and young people aged 0 to 25 with vision impairment develop the mobility, orientation and independent living skills they need to thrive at home, in education and in their communities. You’ll be part of a supportive team of Habilitation Specialists, with access to a qualified habilitation colleague and manager, a structured induction, peer support and continuing professional development.

You’ll assess needs, carry out risk assessments, and create personalised programmes that build confidence, independence and prepare young people for adulthood. You’ll work closely with families, schools and professionals, providing expert advice, training and support, while helping to ensure a high-quality, safe and effective countywide service. You’ll also contribute to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and transition planning to help achieve positive outcomes for children and young people.

How You’ll Make a Difference

• Assess the individual needs of children and young people with vision impairment and develop personalised habilitation programmes that build confidence, independence and essential life skills.
• Help children and young people with vision impairment build confidence, independence and life skills.
• Deliver tailored mobility and independent living support in schools, homes and the community.
• Work closely with families, schools and professionals to support consistent approaches and achieve the best outcomes.
• Guide and support young people through key life and education transitions.
• Share your expertise through training, advice and hands-on support.
• Contribute to an innovative service that empowers children and young people to thrive.

What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?

• Knowledge of Habilitation, SEND, visual impairment, child development, safeguarding and the SEND framework.
• Experience supporting children and young people with Vision Impairment, SEND and/or complex needs.
• Experience working with families and multi-agency professionals to deliver positive outcomes.
• A recognised Habilitation qualification.
• A willingness and ability to develop the specialist skills needed to assess needs, deliver habilitation programmes and support mobility, independence and accessibility.
• Strong communication skills, professional judgement, and ability to provide specialist advice and training.
• A self-motivated and organised approach, with the ability to meet deadlines, maintain accurate records, work independently and contribute to service improvement and quality assurance.

What is in it for me?

At Somerset Council, we’re a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England’s most beautiful counties, it’s a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.

• 30 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK’s most enhanced and secure pension schemes.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance, where service needs allow.
• Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
• Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.

Supporting documents and information

• Flexible working available, using a Hybrid model – working from home and your contracted work base.
• You’ll provide specialist support for children and young people with vision impairment, managing a caseload that spans early years to further education and is prioritised according to need and adjusted to reflect your working hours.
• This is a countywide role, working in homes, schools and community settings. Regular travel across Somerset is essential, so you’ll need a full driving licence and access to suitable transport.

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for VISA sponsorship.

For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Andrea Doyle, Senior Inclusion Lead – Sensory Loss and Complex Needs on 01823 358126 or email andrea.doyle@somerset.gov.uk

We believe diversity makes us stronger and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, whose unique perspectives help us better serve the people of Somerset.

Interviews will take place between the 1 and 3 of December 2026 in Taunton.

Apply on the Somerset Council website

Apply now