At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with disabilities and their families through assessments and court applications.
- Company: Inclusive employer committed to diversity and making a difference in children's lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: 12-month fixed-term contract with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the lives of children and families while developing your social work skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Social Worker with experience in child protection and learning disabilities.
Job Title
Social Worker – Integrated Disabled Childrens Service
Job Summary
We are seeking a qualified Social Worker to work 30 hours per week in the Fieldwork Team at the Integrated Disabled Childrens service for a 12‑month fixed‑term contract. The role supports children and families with moderate‑to‑severe learning disabilities, including Child In Need, Child Protection, Care Proceedings and Looked‑After Children. Responsibilities include writing Section 7 reports, undertaking permanency work (including adoption), completing assessments, and applying the Mental Capacity Act where necessary.
Key Responsibilities
- Work with children and families at Child In Need, Child Protection and Care Proceedings.
- Support Looked‑After Children.
- Write Section 7 reports for private proceedings.
- Undertake permanency work including adoption.
- Complete assessments and court applications, including Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty applications.
- Carry out child‑focused assessments and develop appropriate service plans.
- Participate in regular supervision and peer support.
Qualifications and Experience
- Qualified Social Worker with relevant experience in child protection or related areas.
- Experience working with children with learning disabilities.
- Knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty laws.
Working Conditions
- Hours: 30 hours per week.
- Contract: 12‑month fixed term.
- Location: Derby (field work).
- Salary: £40,777 – £49,282 per annum pro‑rata (Grade J or K).
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We are a fair and inclusive employer and welcome applications from people from all backgrounds. We recruit for diversity and value difference. If you are a disabled person, you can apply under our Guaranteed Interview Scheme, provided you meet the essential requirements for the job. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Social Worker - Integrated Disabled Childrens Service employer: Derby City Council
Derby City Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values diversity and professional growth. As a Tractor Driver/Gardener, you will benefit from a generous annual leave package, a local government pension scheme, and access to exclusive discounts through Team Derby Rewards, making it a rewarding place to build your career in grounds maintenance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker - Integrated Disabled Childrens Service
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Derby City Council, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker - Integrated Disabled Childrens Service
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Derby City Council. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Derby City Council. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Derby City Council
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Derby City Council.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Social Worker - Integrated Disabled Childrens Service role at Derby City Council, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Derby City Council that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
