An experienced and committed Children’s Social Worker is required to join a Looked After Children (LAC) team. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people in care, supporting them to achieve positive outcomes, develop secure relationships and reach their full potential.
You will manage a caseload of looked after children, completing high-quality assessments and care planning in line with statutory requirements. Your responsibilities will include undertaking statutory visits, preparing and reviewing care plans, contributing to permanence planning, and ensuring that children’s voices, wishes and feelings remain central to all decision-making. You will work closely with foster carers, birth families, schools, health professionals, independent reviewing officers and other partner agencies.
The role will involve preparing clear reports for reviews, court proceedings and other professional meetings, as well as responding appropriately to safeguarding concerns. You will be expected to identify risk, promote children’s welfare and challenge practice where necessary. Building positive relationships with children, young people and their networks will be essential, alongside maintaining accurate, timely and compliant case records.
Applicants must hold a recognised Social Work qualification and be registered with Social Work England. You should have relevant post-qualification experience in children’s social care, ideally including work with looked after children, care leavers or permanence planning. A sound understanding of childcare legislation, safeguarding procedures and the regulatory framework for children in care is required.
You will need excellent communication, organisation and report-writing skills, together with the ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively under pressure. We are seeking a reflective practitioner who is committed to relationship-based practice, professional development and achieving the best possible outcomes for children. The ability to travel within the local area and undertake statutory visits is also essential.
Children's SW - LAC Team - Hounslow employer: Caritas Recruitment
Caritas Recruitment is an excellent employer for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. Located in Southampton, we foster a supportive work culture that prioritises collaboration and professional growth, offering ongoing training and development opportunities. Our commitment to client-centred care ensures that our employees are empowered to make meaningful contributions while enjoying a fulfilling career in a vibrant community.
