Childrens Social Worker - Durham Children's Team

Job Overview:
We are looking for an experienced and passionate Children’s Social Worker to join Northumberland Children's Safeguarding Team. This role offers a rewarding opportunity to support children and families in need, ensuring that children’s welfare is prioritized and safeguarded. The successful candidate will have a background in children’s social work, particularly in safeguarding, child protection, and family support.

Key Responsibilities:

• Child Protection & Safeguarding: Undertake assessments of children and families, providing timely interventions to protect children at risk.
• Case Management: Manage a caseload of children and families, creating and implementing care plans that focus on promoting the safety and well-being of children.
• Court Work: Prepare and present reports for court proceedings, including care proceedings, and contribute to child protection conferences.
• Family Support: Work closely with families to provide support, guidance, and interventions that enable them to care for their children safely and effectively.
• Multi-Agency Collaboration: Work with a range of professionals, including teachers, health professionals, and police, to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care plans for children.
• Review and Monitoring: Conduct regular reviews of care plans and services, making adjustments as necessary to meet the evolving needs of children and families.
• Advocacy: Advocate on behalf of children and families, ensuring that their voices are heard and that their needs are addressed.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records, adhering to professional standards and local authority policies.

Key Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker: Must hold a Social Work degree or equivalent and be registered with Social Work England.
• Experience: At least 3 years permanent post-qualification experience in children’s social work, particularly in child protection, safeguarding, and case management.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of relevant legislation, including the Children Act 1989, the Care Act 2014, and safeguarding protocols.
• Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with children, families, and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Organisational Skills: Ability to effectively manage a caseload and work under pressure, meeting deadlines and legal requirements.
• Driver’s License: A full UK driving license and access to a car for work purposes may be required.

Benefits:

• Competitive Pay: £36 per hour.
• Flexible Working: Potential for hybrid working or flexible hours, depending on case requirements.
• Regular Supervision: Access to ongoing supervision and support to ensure best practice and professional development.
• Career Development: Continuous professional development and training opportunities to support career progression.
• Annual Leave: Generous annual leave entitlement.

How to Apply:
Please email your CV to

Durham County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We expect all staff to share this commitment.