At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children in care, find adoptive placements, and promote positive relationships.
- Company: Join a dedicated team focused on improving outcomes for children in care.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work pattern with one day in the office and competitive pay.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must have a recognised Social Work qualification and 3 years of post-qualifying experience.
- Other info: Diverse applicants are encouraged to apply to enhance our team.
Job Description
Childrens Social Worker – Adolescents Team
Working Arrangements: Hybrid
Annual Salary: £40,369 to £43,686
About the Service
The Adolescent South Team works across Cambridge City, South Cambridgeshire and East Cambridgeshire and collaborates closely with the Missing & Exploitation Team and Youth Justice Service.
Young people are referred due to risks including:
- Missing episodes
- Criminal or sexual exploitation
- Serious youth violence
- Mental health or substance misuse challenges
- Homelessness (16–17 year olds)
The Role
We are seeking a qualified Social Worker to join our Adolescent South Team, working with young people aged 12+ where safeguarding concerns relate primarily to extra‑familial harm.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a caseload of 12–15 young people
- Deliver Child in Need work, alongside some assessments, Child Protection and Children in Care work
- Conduct direct, relationship‑based work with young people in the community
- Work in partnership with families and multi‑agency professionals
- Complete high‑quality assessments and written work
What We Offer
- Supportive, well‑established team and reflective supervision
- Manageable caseloads that allow meaningful direct work
- Ongoing training and development in adolescent practice
- Flexible working, including regular home working
- Weekly team check‑ins and fortnightly in‑person meetings
If you thrive to make a difference and have Social worker experience and this is the role for you, then we would love to hear from you.
Social Worker employer: Opus People Solutions Ltd
Contact Detail:
Opus People Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by children in care. Understanding the nuances of their experiences will help you demonstrate your empathy and commitment during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former social workers in similar roles. They can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable when discussing your fit for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current legislation and best practices in child welfare. Being knowledgeable about recent changes can set you apart as a candidate who is proactive and informed.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific case studies or experiences where you've made a positive impact on children's lives. Real-life examples will showcase your skills and dedication effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Social Worker position. Highlight your relevant experience in working with children in care, as this will be crucial in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience and skills that align with the job requirements. Emphasise your professional Social Work qualification, post-qualifying experience, and any specific work you've done with children and young people.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for social work and your commitment to promoting positive outcomes for children in care. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate how you meet the key requirements outlined in the job description.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are essential qualities for a Social Worker.
How to prepare for a job interview at Opus People Solutions Ltd
✨Show Your Passion for Child Welfare
Make sure to express your genuine passion for working with children in care. Share specific examples from your experience that highlight your commitment to promoting their well-being and positive outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your relevant experience in social work, particularly with children and young people. Be ready to talk about your caseload management, how you've supported complex cases, and your approach to permanence planning.
✨Highlight Team Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working within a team, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues. Share examples of how you've worked with other professionals to achieve the best outcomes for children in care.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Anticipate scenario-based questions that may be asked during the interview. Think about how you would handle specific situations involving children in care, and be prepared to explain your thought process and decision-making.