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- Tasks: Lead and support foster carers while managing complex cases in a child-centred environment.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking local authority dedicated to improving outcomes for children in care.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, professional development opportunities, and access to wellbeing services.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while working in a supportive and inclusive team.
- Qualifications: Must have a recognised social work qualification and substantial experience in fostering or children's services.
- Other info: Driving access is required due to rural locations; ASYE completion is essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Your new company Join a forward-thinking and child-centred local authority committed to improving outcomes for children and young people in care. We are currently recruiting for a Senior Social Worker within a fostering service within the Surrey area. Your new role As a Senior Social Worker within the fostering team, you will take a lead role in supporting foster carers, managing complex cases, and contributing to the development of the service. You will carry out assessments of prospective carers, provide supervision and guidance, and work closely with colleagues and external partners to ensure the best possible outcomes for children in foster care. Key responsibilities include: Completing Form F assessments and presenting to panel. Supervising and supporting foster carers to maintain high standards of care. Leading on safeguarding and placement stability work. Delivering training and contributing to service improvement initiatives. Supporting junior staff and offering professional guidance.What you\’ll need to succeed A recognised social work qualification (e.g. DipSW, CQSW, or equivalent) and registration with Social Work England. Substantial post-qualification experience in fostering or children\’s services. Strong knowledge of fostering regulations, safeguarding procedures, and child development. Excellent communication, assessment, and report-writing skills. A proactive, collaborative approach and the ability to mentor and support colleagues. Must be able to drive and have access to your own vehicle due to rural locations. Must have completed your ASYE. What you\’ll get in return A supportive and inclusive working environment. Opportunities for professional development and career progression. Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance. Access to wellbeing services and employee assistance programmes. Competitive salary, generous annual leave, and pension scheme.What you need to do now Interested in this role? Apply today and help make a lasting difference in the lives of children and young people. / (phone number removed)If this job isn\’t quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C\’s, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)
Senior Social Worker - Fostering Team employer: Hays Social Care
Contact Detail:
Hays Social Care Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Social Worker - Fostering Team
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the fostering and children's services sector. Attend local events or workshops to meet people who work in similar roles, as they can provide insights and potentially refer you to opportunities within their organisations.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest fostering regulations and best practices. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and the welfare of children in care.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential scenario-based questions that may arise during the interview process. Think about complex cases you've managed and how you approached them, as this will showcase your experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your mentoring abilities by discussing any experiences where you've supported junior staff or contributed to team development. This is crucial for a Senior Social Worker role and will highlight your leadership qualities.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Social Worker - Fostering Team
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in fostering and children's services. Emphasise your qualifications, such as your social work degree and registration with Social Work England, along with any specific achievements in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for improving outcomes for children in care. Mention your understanding of fostering regulations and your experience in managing complex cases, as well as your ability to mentor and support colleagues.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, focus on your excellent communication, assessment, and report-writing skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully supervised foster carers and contributed to service improvement initiatives in the past.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a role like this.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Social Care
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your substantial post-qualification experience in fostering or children's services. Highlight specific cases where you've made a significant impact, as this will demonstrate your capability and understanding of the role.
✨Know the Regulations
Familiarise yourself with fostering regulations and safeguarding procedures. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you are well-informed and serious about the responsibilities of the position.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with foster carers, colleagues, and external partners in the past.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage complex cases. Think through potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them.