At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children and families through high-quality social work and collaborative practice.
- Company: Join the City of York Council, rated Outstanding by Ofsted.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, health initiatives, and a rewarding pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working options and opportunities for community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while shaping future practices.
- Qualifications: Experience with children and families, strong risk assessment skills, and leadership abilities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
City of York Council invites you to apply for the role of Senior Social Worker within our Family Help service. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a service that values high‑quality relationships, reflective supervision and systemic practice, ensuring children and families receive the right support at the right time. We are proud to be rated Outstanding by Ofsted and are investing in our workforce to shape and influence practice in line with the Families First reforms.
Responsibilities
- You will keep a diverse and complex caseload, including children subject to Child in Need, Child Protection and both public and private law proceedings.
- You will contribute to high‑quality permanence planning, ensuring each child’s identity, stability and sense of belonging are central to decision‑making.
- Alongside direct work you will model high‑quality, relationship‑based practice, support less experienced colleagues through informal mentoring and guidance, and contribute to a strong learning culture by sharing expertise and promoting reflective practice.
- You will work effectively with multi‑agency partners to deliver evidence‑informed interventions and support families through Family Help Assessments, intervention, and co‑producing plans.
- You will also work closely with the Multi‑Agency Child Protection Team and partners across education, health and the voluntary sector to ensure a joined‑up, whole‑family approach.
Qualifications
- Experience working with children and families, including safeguarding, strong skills in risk assessment, child development and multi‑agency working.
- Ability to lead practice, support colleagues and promote high standards.
- Demonstrated competency to converse and provide advice and guidance to members of the public in spoken English at CEFR level C1.
Role Details
This role forms part of the implementation of the Families First reforms, which will come into effect on 1 October 2026. If successful, the start date will be on or after this date, subject to the completion of all required pre‑employment checks, including DBS clearance. The vacancy is advertised as full‑time but could also be a job share if suitable candidates are identified. Hybrid working arrangements are available; the contractual location will be the designated council office for your team.
Benefits & Support
Comprehensive health and wellbeing initiatives, generous annual leave allowance, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and a reward package that recognises your contribution. Flexible working practices, community engagement and volunteer activities are also available. We also offer a range of discounts, rewards and savings.
Contact: Cat Middleton, Email: cat.middleton@york.gov.uk or Phone: 01904551456.
Closing date: Sunday 19 July 12:00 am. Interview date: Week commencing 3 August 2026.
