Social Worker Level 3 in Bournemouth

Starting salary for this role is £48,226 (pro rata for part-time colleagues).

This role sits within a well defined pay band, offering clear progression as you grow your career at BCP. Without exception all new starters begin at the entry point of the band, ensuring fairness and consistency across the organisation. Be part of a forward thinking workplace where you’re supported to grow and you can truly #BeTheDifference at BCP.

Internal colleagues are also normally appointed at the bottom of the band, unless moving within the same profession and skill level, where the pay band is the same they can be appointed to the existing pay point.

Learn more in our ‘More than just a job’ brochure on our careers site.

Position Details

Level 3 Social Worker (full time (37 hours) post based at the Civic Centre in Bournemouth; hybrid working model)

Service/Team

Aspire Adoption

Reports to

Jo Hubbard, Family Finding team manager

We are looking for an experienced level 3 social worker.

This successful person will be responsible for working with children who are in the care of BCP and Dorset, family finding for them through to Adoption Orders.

Day‑to‑day duties

• Visiting allocated children within statutory timescales, whilst understanding the impact on early trauma and attachment.
• Ensure the child’s voice is central to planning, matching and placement.
• Seek to secure permanence by way of adoption for children who have a Placement Order, following the family finding flow chart.
• Work across two authorities and build effective and positive working relationships with social workers, IROs, foster carers and parents.
• Direct work to prepare children for permanence.
• Preparation of Court paperwork including Court statements.
• Work with the case management systems ensuring they are up to date and child focused.

We Are Looking For Someone Who

• Has experience working alongside children in care, attending reviews, updating care plans etc.
• Ideally would have adoption experience.
• Can present complex information in writing and in person including adoption panel and Court.
• Willingness to drive distances including overnight stays where necessary.
• Will work in a professional manner alongside families and professionals.
• Will use supervision including clinical supervision to reflect on practice and own development.
• Has knowledge of child care legislation and adoption statutory guidance and child protection procedures.
• Undertake confident analysis and decision making.

To discuss this opportunity further, please contact Jo Hubbard, Team Manager.

Joanna.hubbard@aspireadoption.co.uk

Interview w/c 27 July 2026

Please note, this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship and we can only consider applicants with existing right to work in the UK.

Inclusion and Accessibility

At BCP Council, inclusion is more than a promise – it’s how we work. We’re committed to providing a fully inclusive recruitment process ensuring every candidate and colleague has the support and reasonable adjustments they need to thrive. From the moment you apply, through the recruitment process and throughout your career with us, we’ll be here to listen and provide the help and support you need. It’s why we’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer – and why you can trust that we’ll always do our best to make your experience positive and accessible. If you require any reasonable adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know when you apply or contact us directly – we’re here to help. For further information on the accessibility support we can offer please see here: Preparing for your interview | Working for BCP

About BCP Council

BCP Council provides services to a diverse community of 400,000 residents and employs more than 5,000 people. Our area includes over 15 miles of beautiful world-renowned coastline. We can offer career defining roles to transform and improve services. By working with us, you can help deliver a vision of a thriving, world-class, prosperous and inclusive place for generations to come.

Our Benefits

A Place to Thrive – Join BCP Council. At BCP Council, we’re not just building a workforce— we’re transforming how we recognise and reward our people. Check out our attractive enhanced benefits and find out more about the new Pay and Reward package at Employee benefits | Working for BCP. Be the difference - Join an organisation that values you. More About us | Working for BCP

DBS

BCP Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the community and expects all staff and volunteers to share the same commitment. Applicants to this post will be required to complete the appropriate level of Disclosure & Barring Service Check.