Lived Experience Worker (Youth Transitions Portfolio) - Part-Time, 2 Days Per Week 

Application closing date 18th October 5pm

Are you ready to turn your personal experience in the out-of-home care system into something powerful? At Uniting, we believe your lived experience has the potential to transform lives and empower young people on their journey to independence. Join us as a Lived Experience Worker in our Youth Transitions portfolio, where your voice will shape the programs, we deliver and make a real difference.

What you’ll be doing:

• Be a voice for change:  Your insights will contribute to and guide key decisions about Uniting’s services for young people leaving care about, helping us keep young people's needs at the heart of everything we do.
• Champion youth voices: You’ll help ensure that young people are heard and that their ideas are woven into the fabric of Uniting’s programs.
• Co-create meaningful initiatives: Collaborate on new projects and programs, using your unique perspective to make sure they truly support young people like you.
• Push for progress: Take part in our Child Rights and Participation Community of Practice, helping us develop and improve how we work.
• Show the value of lived experience: Be an advocate and share your experiences to drive change in the services delivered to young people after they leave care.
• Learn and grow: Visit Uniting sites and engage with staff to understand the broader work we do within Youth Transitions, including Foyer Central, the Youth Initiative, and Aftercare.
• Bring your voice to recruitment: Help select staff for Youth Transitions programs, ensuring the people we hire understand and respect the experiences of young people in care.
• Contribute to exciting projects: Your insights will shape important initiatives, like developing child/youth participation frameworks and feedback tools.
• Discover new possibilities: Explore opportunities that align with your passions and where your lived experience can make a difference.
• Keep learning: Work closely with your manager to build your skills and knowledge as you grow in your role.

What we’re looking for:

• Your personal experience in the NSW out-of-home care system.
• A desire to listen, support, and advocate for young people.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with Uniting staff.
• Interest in developing leadership and advocacy skills.
• The ability to manage multiple tasks and a commitment to self-care.
• A willingness to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences.

Key relationships:

• Build strong, supportive connections with young people and Uniting staff.
• Collaborate with others on projects and bring your ideas to the table.
• Be open and seek support when needed.

Professional Growth & Development:

• Take charge of your own learning and professional development.
• Be a role model for Uniting’s values, embracing diversity and supporting both young people and colleagues.

Requirements:

• You’ll need a current Working with Children Check and National Police Check for this role – but don’t worry if you don’t have them yet! We’ll support you through the process of obtaining these checks.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for work.

 YT Lived Experience Consultant_PD.

This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to use your lived experience to make a lasting impact. If you're ready to be a part of a team that’s shaping brighter futures, we’d love to hear from you. 

How to apply:  

Send your CV and a cover letter (1 page) that explains why you would like to be a Lived Experience Worker. This letter can answer some (or all) of these questions: 

• Why are you are a good fit for this role? 
• What would you like to see changed in the foster care system?  
• How do you think young people could be better supported when they leave foster care? 

If you have any questions and would like to talk about the role please don't hesitate to contact Louise Massie on 0422 154 242 or via Email  - mmassie@uniting.org

When you’re part of Uniting NSW.ACT, you’re part of a diverse, purpose-led team of people who are really making a difference to the world around them.

We contribute to the work and mission of the Uniting Church in NSW and the ACT through social justice advocacy, community services and spiritual care. We provide care and support for people through all ages and stages of life, with a focus on people experiencing disadvantage and vulnerability. Our purpose is to inspire people, enliven communities and confront injustice.

Uniting leaders and employees work together to create a culture that is safe, inclusive and person-centred. We bring this to life every day through our values: compassionate, respectful, imaginative and bold.

Uniting acknowledges the continuing sovereignty and rich cultural diversity of Australia’s First Peoples. We pay our respects to all Elders – past, present, and emerging – and to all First Peoples on whose lands we live and work. 

Uniting is a Child Safe Organisation committed to promoting the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of children and young people.