Duty Social Worker

This is an exciting opportunity for a child-focused, dynamic, and enthusiastic experienced social worker to join the Staffordshire Permanency Support Locality Team, part of the Together4Children Permanency Partnership, on a permanent basis.

At Staffordshire County Council, we are committed to delivering high-quality permanency support assessments and interventions for adopted children and their families across the county. Our team is also responsible for responding to requests for information from adopted adults (Birth Records Counselling/Access to Adoption Records), birth parent support, and post box communication. You will have the opportunity to contribute to the development of the roles and responsibilities of the duty social workers as the service reviews how we support our children and families.

You will be joining an experienced, stable staff team that values teamwork and positive communication skills. The duty role is a unique position within the team and serves as the first point of contact for parents. You will be working alongside our existing duty social worker who has held this role for several years.

While there is some opportunity for home-based working, the Permanency Support Team provides a county-wide service, and travel across various locations in the Together4Children Permanency Partnership Region will be required. There is an expectation to work in the office at least two days per week, with flexible working hours including occasional evenings and weekends on a planned basis.

Main Responsibilities

1. Undertake assessments and interventions for adoptive children and families in Staffordshire.
2. Work with individual service users, conducting adoption support assessments, and developing initial support plans and further work as needed.
3. Liaise with district, regional colleagues, early help services, and other agencies.
4. Triages referrals, completes timely and evidence-based adoption support assessments, and provides quality therapeutic support as outlined in support plans.
5. Coordinate with other professionals, signpost, and refer adopted children and their parents to targeted/universal/other services where necessary.
6. Participate in groups, activities, and the preparation and delivery of training related to adoption and permanence.
7. Maintain a child-focused approach in all activities.

The Ideal Candidate

1. Qualified social worker with safeguarding experience and working with children who can no longer live with their birth families.
2. Registered with Social Work England.
3. Proficient in ICT, particularly in Excel.
4. Strong assessment writing and analytical skills.
5. Understanding of the needs of adoptive children and families, including attachment, separation, trauma, and child development.
6. Knowledge of relevant legislation and policies concerning adoption, support, Birth Records Counselling, and Access to Adoption Records.
7. Willingness to learn and develop professionally.
8. Full UK driving license and access to a car, as the role covers a wide geographical area.

Interviews are scheduled for 18th June 2025. If you do not meet all the listed requirements but possess transferable skills and experience, we encourage you to apply or contact Lisa Burke, Permanency Team Manager, at lisa.burke@staffordshire.gov.uk for an informal discussion.

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