At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support social work teams in safeguarding children and young people.
- Company: Cardiff Council, dedicated to high-quality children's services.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible working, wellbeing sessions, and birthday gifts.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Social Work qualification, registration with Social Care Wales, and leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
We are currently recruiting for two experienced Principal Social Worker positions within Children’s Services for Cardiff Council.
Principal Social Worker – MASH
This is a fast‑paced and rewarding role within MASH, supporting the Team Manager in delivering high‑quality safeguarding responses using the Signs of Safety approach. Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting and supervising a small sub‑team under the guidance of the Team Manager
- Leading on staff development and supervision
- Chairing and managing high‑risk strategy meetings on a rota basis
- Supporting with referral “ragging”, allocations, and authorising assessments
- Working closely with partner agencies to promote effective multi‑agency safeguarding practice
- Supporting service development and participating in Task Force Groups
- Making confident, timely decisions within pressured safeguarding timescales
This role requires strong experience in risk assessment, safeguarding decision making, and the ability to work proactively within a high‑pressure environment. Please note: Principal Social Workers within MASH are expected to work on‑site 2 days per week on a rota basis alongside their counterpart to support the Team Manager.
Principal Social Worker – Intake & Assessment
We are also seeking an experienced Principal Social Worker for the Intake & Assessment Team. The successful candidate will need:
- Strong frontline Children’s Services experience
- Previous experience line managing Social Workers
- Confidence deputising for the Team Manager when required
- Experience overseeing allocations, safeguarding decisions, and performance management
- Ability to support and develop staff within a busy assessment environment
This role will report directly into the Operational Manager and would suit a confident practitioner with strong leadership and operational experience.
To apply for this role, you will need to hold:
- A relevant Social Work Qualification
- Registration with Social Care Wales
- Enhanced DBS registered on the update service or be happy to apply for a DBS
- 3 Years of referencing
- Driving licence with access to a car
Benefits of working for Hoop:
- 20 years’ experience of the Social Work market
- Your local agency based in Cardiff
- Welsh‑speaking consultant available should you wish to converse in Welsh throughout your job search
- PAYE and Umbrella payroll options available – you choose!
- Dedicated point of contact (support team to cover whilst on leave)
- Twice weekly payroll
- Actively supplying every Local Authority in South/West Wales and South West England
- Refer a friend scheme available
- Birthday gifts (after 1 year in service)
- Wellbeing sessions
Given the nature of the role, only applications from individuals with a social work qualification and registration with either professional body – Social Care Wales / Social Work England can be considered. Please only apply if you meet this criteria.
Please contact Sarah Leigh at Hoop Recruitment on 02922 400519 if you want to find out more.
Principal Social Workers - Childrens Services x 2 MASH | Intake in Cardiff employer: Community Care Live
Cardiff Council is an exceptional employer for Principal Social Workers, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment that prioritises the development of high-quality safeguarding services for children and young people. With flexible working options, a strong emphasis on staff wellbeing, and opportunities for professional growth, employees can thrive in their roles while making a meaningful impact in the community. The council's commitment to collaboration and innovation ensures that social workers are well-equipped to lead and support their teams effectively.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Social Workers - Childrens Services x 2 MASH | Intake in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social work field, especially those who are already working at Cardiff Council. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the roles and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on the Signs of Safety approach. Show us you know your stuff and can apply it in real-life scenarios. We want to see how you handle high-pressure situations!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight your leadership skills! Whether it’s supervising a team or making tough decisions, make sure you showcase your experience in guiding others and managing risk effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Social Workers - Childrens Services x 2 MASH | Intake in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal Social Worker role. Highlight your relevant experience in safeguarding, decision-making, and team leadership to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills align with the job description. Use specific examples from your past roles that illustrate your ability to manage high-pressure situations and support staff development.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key achievements stand out. This helps us quickly see why you’d be a great addition to our team!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Community Care Live
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Signs of Safety approach and any relevant safeguarding legislation. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just experienced, but also well-prepared for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or managed high-pressure situations in the past. Highlighting your experience in supervising social workers and making critical decisions will demonstrate your readiness for a Principal Social Worker position.
✨Understand Multi-Agency Work
Familiarise yourself with how different agencies collaborate in safeguarding practices. Be ready to discuss your experience working with partner agencies and how you can promote effective multi-agency safeguarding within the team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, challenges they face, and their approach to staff development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
