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- Tasks: Lead reviews for looked after children, ensuring high standards of care and support.
- Company: Join a supportive team in Somerset dedicated to improving lives through social work.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, gym discounts, and a friendly learning culture.
- Other info: Flexible office locations available; apply early as positions fill quickly.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your career in a caring environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Social Worker with experience in child protection and supervising staff.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
About the job
Some key information
- This is for 22.5 hours per week
- Flexible working options
- Supportive team culture and learning opportunities
What will I be doing?
In Somerset, IROs are expected to deliver on all aspects of the Independent Reviewing Officer Handbook, chairing reviews for looked after children and young people. You will work closely with the Local Authority Designated Officer and at times cover the role.
You will have a pivotal role in quality assurance and the opportunity to contribute and make a difference to improving outcomes for children. You will be expected to promote high standards of care and support to children who are looked after by the Local Authority. We\’re looking for someone who has excellent communication and leadership skills, is passionate about relationship-based social work and has a good understanding of planning for children. You should have post-qualifying experience of children and family social work including substantial experience in child protection and planning for looked after children. Experience in chairing complex meetings and a good working knowledge of childcare legislation is required.
What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?
You must be a qualified Social Worker and be registered with Social Work England. You must also have experience of supervising qualified staff within a relevant professional setting. We can be flexible with regards to your office base and have offices in Bridgwater, Taunton, Yeovil and Shepton Mallett.
If you have the necessary skills and experience for this post, we look forward to hearing from you.
What\’s in it for me?
We are proud to offer an environment that is supportive and rewarding, within a team who are passionate about the work that they do to improve the lives of people in Somerset. Good technology is provided to help you stay connected to your team and manager through virtual meetings, team check-ins and service sessions.
We offer a friendly supportive learning culture with an approachable and experienced leadership team, as well as the below:
- Small supportive teams to progress your career
- Strengths and relationship-based approach to underpin your work
- Regular high-quality systemic supervision
- Trust in your professional autonomy
- CPD with a strong focus on systemic and relationship-based practice
- A kind, caring and supportive environment
- Generous annual leave and flexible working options
- Optional pension enhancement through our additional voluntary contribution scheme
- Employee assistance and support offering a variety of wellbeing services to support a healthy work/life balance and lifestyle
- A flexible benefits platform including cycle to work and health screening schemes
- \’My staff shop\’ which offers excellent discounts at a variety of retailers including; cinemas, restaurants, clothing stores and insurance providers
- Gym discounts
- Discounted lease car options via salary sacrifice, along with discounts on fuel
- Generous relocation allowance
Anything else I should know?
If you would like more information, please contact Rachel Bovingdon on rachel.bovingdon@somerset.gov.uk .
*We recommend applying early as vacancy will close once a number of applications is reached*.
£29,039 pa + £1,824 recruitment allowance payable for 18 months
DBS information
This post requires a criminal background check via the Disclosure procedure.
Supporting documents and information
Please read any attached documents before applying for this job
Job Description and person specification SCC05525 HC.pdf
pdf, 120.83 KB #J-18808-Ljbffr
Independent Reviewing Officer employer: CIH International Housing Group
Contact Detail:
CIH International Housing Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Reviewing Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Independent Reviewing Officer Handbook. Understanding the key responsibilities and expectations outlined in this document will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Independent Reviewing Officers. Engaging with professionals in the field can provide valuable insights into the role and may even lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in chairing complex meetings. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your leadership skills and ability to manage challenging discussions effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for relationship-based social work. During any interactions, emphasise your commitment to improving outcomes for children and how your values align with the supportive culture at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Reviewing Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of an Independent Reviewing Officer. Familiarise yourself with the Independent Reviewing Officer Handbook and the specific requirements outlined in the job description.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in children and family social work, particularly your post-qualifying experience and any supervisory roles. Emphasise your skills in chairing complex meetings and your knowledge of childcare legislation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for relationship-based social work and your commitment to improving outcomes for children. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate your leadership and communication skills.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at CIH International Housing Group
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your post-qualifying experience in children and family social work. Highlight specific cases where you have successfully planned for looked after children and how your actions led to positive outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since the role requires supervising qualified staff, be ready to share examples of your leadership style. Discuss how you have supported and guided team members in previous roles, especially in complex situations.
✨Understand Childcare Legislation
Brush up on relevant childcare legislation before the interview. Be prepared to answer questions about how this knowledge informs your practice and decision-making when chairing reviews.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Prepare to discuss how you build relationships with children, families, and colleagues. Share examples of how your communication skills have helped resolve conflicts or improve team dynamics.