At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children and families through restorative social work, building strong relationships for positive change.
- Company: Join Leeds City Council, part of Ofsted's outstanding children's services, dedicated to improving lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, professional development, and wellbeing perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team with mentorship, making a real impact on vulnerable communities.
- Qualifications: Hold a relevant social work qualification and be registered with Social Work England.
- Other info: Opportunities available across various teams; trainee positions offered if awaiting qualification.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Newly Qualified Social Worker role at Leeds City Council.
As a children's social worker, you will thrive on working restoratively with children and families by building strong relationships to inspire positive change and sustainable outcomes. Our restorative practice model is central to our children's social work team at Leeds City Council. As a newly qualified social worker, you'll be a valued team member from the start.
Training and career development
You will participate in the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) programme, receiving support and guidance from your manager and team. The programme includes a protected caseload with co-working support, dedicated training time, weekly mentor sessions, and practice cafés. Upon successful completion of the ASYE, you will progress to a social worker role. Opportunities are available across the city in locality teams, children looked after, and specialist teams such as front door, restorative early support, and child health and disability services.
Contract and working arrangements
We offer permanent contracts on full-time, part-time, or job-share basis, with flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance, subject to service needs.
Our commitment
We are proud to be part of Ofsted's outstanding Leeds children's services, working to improve outcomes for all children and young people, especially those from vulnerable and deprived backgrounds.
About You
You will hold a relevant professional qualification (degree, DipSW, CQSW, or equivalent) and be registered with Social Work England at the start of employment. If awaiting your degree and registration, a trainee social worker position can be offered temporarily.
Key skills and knowledge
- Ability to assess social care needs and plan, implement, and evaluate interventions
- Knowledge of social work theory, policy, legislation, and safeguarding
- Consultative approach to engage children and families, considering their views and advocating for them
- Effective communication and collaboration skills for multi-agency working
- Experience of supervision for critical reflection and practice enhancement
Role responsibilities
You will be an integral part of our supportive team, providing high-quality social work services with mentorship from senior colleagues. You may co-work challenging cases with experienced staff and will actively participate in supervision and appraisal processes. All activities will be underpinned by our restorative practice and family decision-making culture, including family group conferencing. You will develop strong links with local health and third sector partners.
Benefits
We offer competitive salary, annual leave, membership of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund, flexible/hybrid working, clear career pathways, professional development, car allowances, discounts, and wellbeing benefits.
Application process
Apply online by uploading your CV and a personal statement (max 500 words). For inquiries or informal chats, contact the recruitment team at 0113 378 5165.
Safeguarding and eligibility
We are committed to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults. A DBS check will be required. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK or consider sponsorship options if eligible.
Newly Qualified Social Worker employer: Leeds City Council
Contact Detail:
Leeds City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Newly Qualified Social Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the restorative practice model that Leeds City Council employs. Understanding this approach will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to their values and methods.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former social workers at Leeds City Council. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights and may even lead to a referral, which can significantly boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential scenario-based questions that assess your ability to handle challenging situations. Think about specific examples from your training or placements where you successfully engaged with children and families.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of multi-agency collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you would work with local health and third sector partners to support children and families effectively, as this is a key aspect of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Newly Qualified Social Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Newly Qualified Social Worker position. Familiarise yourself with Leeds City Council's restorative practice model and how it impacts your work.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Your personal statement is crucial. Use it to highlight your passion for social work, relevant experiences, and how you align with the values of Leeds City Council. Be specific about your skills in assessing social care needs and your consultative approach.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV reflects your qualifications and experiences that are most relevant to the role. Include any placements or internships that demonstrate your ability to work with children and families, as well as your understanding of social work theory and legislation.
Prepare for the DBS Check: Since a DBS check is required, ensure you have all necessary documentation ready. This will help streamline the process once you receive an offer. Also, be prepared to discuss your commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults during the application process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leeds City Council
✨Understand the Restorative Practice Model
Familiarise yourself with the restorative practice model that Leeds City Council employs. Be prepared to discuss how you can apply this approach in your work with children and families, highlighting any relevant experiences or training.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in social work. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to engage with children and families, and provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with multi-agency teams in the past.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging situations. Think about specific cases you've encountered during your training and how you approached them, focusing on your assessment and intervention strategies.
✨Highlight Your Commitment to Professional Development
Discuss your eagerness to participate in the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) programme. Emphasise your willingness to learn from mentors and your commitment to continuous professional development within the field of social work.