The Belay Foundation is a charity based in the South West of England. We are dedicated to matching adoptive families in need of support with students looking for sector-specific experience. At the heart of our work is a child's recovery from trauma, so we support those who have the most impact on this - the parents.

Why 'Belay'?

'Belay' is a climbing-specific term, where the climber is secured by a rope to the 'belayer' to increase safety and prevent injury. We thought this was the perfect metaphor for the work we are trying to do at The Belay Foundation, in supporting families and young people by increasing safety and holding their needs, without 'taking over' or telling them what they should or shouldn't be doing.

Key Deliverables

For parents:

• Improved attachment between parent and child

• 1:1 time with children

• Respite - a space to relax and recharge

• Reflection with Specialist Support Worker

For students:

• A lived experience of developmental trauma to take into practice

• Bespoke training and development of theory-practice links

• Direct working with vulnerable children and their families

• Integration into a multidisciplinary team

• Appreciation of risk, safeguarding and professional boundaries

What does a Specialist Support Worker do?

A typical day in the life of a Specialist Support Worker is diverse, as it is driven by the needs of the family they're supporting. Common tasks might include; support with basic self-care, facilitation of leisure or meaningful activity, practical tasks (i.e. preparing food, driving). If you're interested in this type of work, contact us for a full job description and person specification.