At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and empower children in care, ensuring their experiences are positive and fulfilling.
- Company: Join Essex County Council, a leader in promoting welfare and safeguarding.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel across Essex and a commitment to equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young lives while working in a supportive team environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in social work and registration with Social Work England required.
The predicted salary is between 51834 - 51834 £ per year.
A permanent opportunity is for a social worker on the Children in Care Team Mid. Are you ready to be part of an incredible social work team that supports, encourages creativity, and makes a real impact on young lives?
About the Role
As part of our Children in Care team you will work with children and young people up to the age of 18 who need our help, whether they are with foster carers or in residential homes. Your goal is to ensure their experience in care is positive.
- Visit children and young people in placement.
- Develop permanency plans, including Special Guardianship Orders and adoption.
- Explain the reasons for being in care through life‑story work.
- Build an effective professional support network.
- Represent the Local Authority in Family Court, write court reports and present care plans and evidence.
- Support some children in returning home to their birth family.
Key Responsibilities
- Build relationships and present information effectively.
- Assess situations and identify risks of significant harm.
- Manage competing priorities and deliver high‑quality work on time.
- Act decisively and responsibly, understanding safeguarding and taking appropriate action.
- Provide creative, child‑centred direct work and advocate children’s wishes and feelings.
- Travel throughout Essex and beyond as required; mobile within a wider operational area.
Requirements
- Diploma or degree in social work, CQSW, CSS, or an equivalent qualification.
- Registered with Social Work England as a Social Worker.
- Demonstrated capability in practice, following current professional standards (PCF and KSS).
- Excellent case recording and complex social and family situation handling.
- Proficiency with Word and social work case recording systems.
- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends when required.
- Valid driving licence and access to a car or alternative mobility means.
Equal Opportunities
Essex County Council is a Disability Confident Leader. We will interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum requirements under our Job Interview Scheme. We also interview veterans and care leavers who meet the minimum requirements. Please inform recruiters if you require reasonable adjustments.
Compliance and Safety
Employees requiring a DBS check must register with the DBS update service. The service is an annual subscription, and the employee is responsible for maintaining it.
Safeguarding Commitment
Essex County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
Contact and Application
For queries regarding this role, please email resourcing.team@essex.gov.uk.
Social Worker - Children in Care, Mid Essex employer: Essex County Council
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment for social workers in the Children in Care team. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to ongoing training and growth opportunities while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people in Chelmsford. Our inclusive culture values creativity and collaboration, ensuring that you feel empowered and valued in your role.
