At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children and families while refreshing your social work skills in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, committed to empowering returning social workers.
- Benefits: Structured support, training opportunities, and no caseload during the programme.
- Other info: Informal interviews and ongoing support throughout your return journey.
- Why this job: Rejoin the social work profession with confidence and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Must have previous registration with SWE or HCPC and meet eligibility criteria.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you a qualified social worker looking to return to practice after a career break? Stockton‑on‑Tees Borough Council is proud to offer a Return to Social Work Practice programme designed to support you in re‑registering with Social Work England (SWE) and rejoining the profession with confidence. This programme provides a structured and supportive route back into practice, helping you meet the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) requirements for restoration. You’ll be offered supervised practice under the guidance of experienced registered professionals, allowing you to refresh your skills and knowledge in a nurturing environment. There is no expectation to carry a caseload during this period.
What supervised practice involves
- Supporting children, young people and families with information and guidance
- Observing assessments and care planning
- Applying legislation in practice
- Liaising with partner agencies and signposting
- Attending team meetings, multi‑agency forums and contributing to case records
- Participating in training and development sessions
- Engaging in other relevant activities within the service
Our commitment to your development
We want your return to social work to be a positive and empowering experience. You’ll be welcomed as part of the team and supported throughout your journey. Our offer includes:
- A full induction and access to mandatory training
- A blend of e‑learning, virtual and in‑person training opportunities
- A dedicated Practice Educator to guide and support you
- Weekly supervision and reflective sessions with a registered social worker
CPD requirements for re‑registration
The amount of CPD you need depends on how long you’ve been out of practice:
- 2–5 years: At least 30 days of updating your skills and knowledge
- More than 5 years: At least 60 days of updating your skills and knowledge (Social Work England defines a day as 7 hours of activity).
For full guidance, please visit the Social Work England website.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible, you must:
- Have previously been registered with SWE or the HCPC
- Not have been removed from the register due to a listed offence
- Not be subject to a removal order within the last 5 years
- Not have made an unsuccessful restoration application in the last 12 months (if over 5 years since removal)
- Not have any undisclosed convictions or cautions relevant to practice
How to apply
Please submit your CV and cover letter via North East Jobs. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Once you’ve successfully completed the programme, you’ll be eligible to apply for social work roles within Stockton‑on‑Tees Borough Council.
What happens next?
Your application will be reviewed by the Principal Social Worker, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to an informal interview. You’ll be asked to bring:
- Proof of address
- Qualification certificates
- Details of previous registration
The interview will explore:
- Your previous experience and any relevant activity during your break
- The type of role you’re interested in returning to
- Preferred working patterns
- Learning and development needs
- Your motivation for returning to practice
- Confirmation of any previous restrictions on practice
If successful, we’ll carry out the necessary checks including:
- Enhanced DBS with Child Barred List
- References
- A voluntary agreement outlining your participation in the unpaid Return to Practice programme, in line with our Volunteer Policy
Return To Social Work Practice employer: North East Ambition
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to supporting qualified social workers in their return to practice. With a structured Return to Social Work Practice programme, employees benefit from comprehensive training, mentorship from experienced professionals, and a welcoming team environment that prioritises personal and professional growth. This unique opportunity allows you to refresh your skills without the pressure of carrying a caseload, making it an ideal setting for those looking to re-enter the rewarding field of social work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Return To Social Work Practice
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Reach out to former colleagues or mentors in social work. They can provide insights, support, and even job leads that you might not find elsewhere.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that informal interview like it’s the big day! Brush up on your previous experiences and think about how they relate to the role you want. Show them you’re ready to jump back in with both feet!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a good follow-up! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you note to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll be one step closer to rejoining the social work community with confidence.
We think you need these skills to ace Return To Social Work Practice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects your social work experience and any relevant activities during your career break. Highlight skills that are particularly relevant to the role, as this will show us you’re ready to jump back in!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your motivation for returning to practice and how the Return to Social Work Practice programme aligns with your goals. We want to see your passion for social work come through.
Be Honest About Your Break:Don’t shy away from discussing your career break in your application. Be open about what you’ve been up to and how it has prepared you for this next step. We appreciate transparency and want to understand your journey.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application via North East Jobs. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at North East Ambition
✨Brush Up on Your Skills
Before the interview, take some time to refresh your knowledge of social work practices and legislation. This will not only boost your confidence but also show the interviewers that you're serious about returning to the field.
✨Know Your Journey
Be prepared to discuss your career break openly. Reflect on what you've learned during this time and how it has shaped your desire to return to social work. This honesty can resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Engage with the Programme Details
Familiarise yourself with the specifics of the Return to Social Work Practice programme. Understanding the structure and support offered will allow you to ask insightful questions and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
✨Show Your Commitment to Development
Highlight your willingness to meet CPD requirements and engage in training. Discuss any relevant courses or activities you've undertaken during your break that align with the role, showing that you're proactive about your professional growth.
