Social Worker - Best Interest Assessor (Permanent) in Dumfries

We require four Social Workers to join our Children and Families Team who has the energy and enthusiasm necessary to make a significant contribution to the work of the team and improve outcomes for children and their families throughout the East of our region.

This Children and Families Team offers an interesting variety of casework as the team works with children, young people and their families from the point of referral and sustains support and intervention for as long as is required. As a result of being the first point of contact for new referrals, the team undertakes a significant amount of Child Protection work. Additionally, there is the opportunity to work with children and young people who are involved in the Children’s Hearing System, who are Looked After at home or accommodated and those supported through Childs Plans. You will therefore have the opportunity to gain experience in an aspect of Children and Families work that interests you.

We are an authority that is committed to improving standards and service delivery, where children and their families are at the centre of what we do. The working day in a Children and Families team can’t be predicted, thus it is essential that you feel supported. You will receive good support and regular supervision and we offer flexible working.

As well as having excellent communication skills, you will be a self-motivated, dynamic individual who is committed to promoting and ensuring that children and young people remain the focus of your work. You will have the skills to initiate and develop effective working relationships with children, young people, their families, colleagues and other agencies and contribute to the development of the team and your own professional development.

An understanding of the effects that drug and alcohol misuse can have on parenting would be beneficial as would an understanding of the effects that domestic violence has on children and young people. You will need to demonstrate an understanding of the effects of poverty and social isolation on children and their families. You will need to have a sound knowledge of child development and the ability to empower parents to meet the changing developmental needs of their child. Any experience of statutory and non-statutory interventions, Looked After Children, dealings with the Children’s Hearing service is beneficial. Additionally, you will be required to have an understanding of Child Protection, thresholds and procedures and be knowledgeable about current research and legislation.

Dumfries and Galloway is an ideal place to live for those looking for a good quality of life with rural woodland and miles of coast line to explore and the advantage of competitive living costs. A relevant Social Work qualification is essential as is registration with the Scottish Social Work Services Council.

This post is considered as Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and / or Protected Adults, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. A current driving licence is an essential requirement of this post. However, if you have a disability which precludes you from holding a driving licence consideration will be given if alternative transport can be arranged.