At a Glance
- Tasks: Support families through assessments and build meaningful relationships using a trauma-informed approach.
- Company: Join Orchard House, an Outstanding-rated Family Assessment Centre committed to safeguarding children.
- Benefits: No independent caseload, supportive environment, professional development, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Ideal for early-career professionals seeking a reflective and supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while deepening your social work skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Social Worker with experience in child and family settings.
The predicted salary is between 36840 - 40000 £ per year.
Join a genuinely outstanding service. Orchard House is a nationally recognised Family Assessment Centre, rated Outstanding by Ofsted in every category (2025 and 2026). This reflects the skill, integrity, and compassion of our multidisciplinary team. We provide residential parenting assessments and interventions, psychological assessments, and related services to Family Courts and Local Authorities nationwide. We are committed to safeguarding children and supporting families to create meaningful, lasting change through high-quality assessment and evidence-based intervention.
Our approach is:
- Trauma-informed and attachment-based
- Reflective and relational
- Child-centred and evidence-led
- Multidisciplinary
We are looking for a thoughtful full-time Social Worker to join our supportive and reflective team. Unlike traditional social work posts, this role does not involve holding an independent caseload. Instead, you will work across the full span of different assessments - providing observations, supporting key meetings, and helping to shape clear, well-evidenced recommendations. You will have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with families using our trauma-informed and attachment-based approach. We welcome applications from both experienced and early-career Social Workers, including those looking to consolidate their learning in a supportive environment.
What you'll do:
- Contribute to high-quality assessments
- Build meaningful relationships with families
- Provide safeguarding input and observations
- Support multi-agency work
- Work within a multidisciplinary team
- Maintain clear, accurate records
- Engage in reflective case mapping
What we’re looking for:
- Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
- Experience with children and families (including placements)
- Reflective, compassionate approach
- Strong communication and teamworking skills
- Commitment to safeguarding and development
This role is ideal for someone wishing to deepen their skills in assessment, safeguarding practice, attachment-informed work, and trauma-aware approaches within an organisation recognised for its high standards. It may also suit someone who is looking to step back from the demands of carrying their own caseload, while still making a significant and meaningful contribution to the lives of children and families.
Why Join Orchard House?
- Ofsted Outstanding service (2025 & 2026)
- No independent caseload – focus on quality, not volume
- Highly supportive environment (ideal for early career)
- Reflective supervision and weekly case mapping
- Structured induction with shadowing
- In-house CPD + external ParentAssess training
- An individual professional development plan
- Wellbeing support (EAP)
If you are seeking a role where you can develop your skills, feel genuinely supported, and make a real difference to children and families, we would love to hear from you. To apply, please visit our website for the full application pack, as we require completion of a full application form. We’re always happy to talk to interested candidates - please feel free to contact Bryony or Sophie on 01823 351785 for an informal conversation.
Application deadline: Thursday 16th July, 0900 Shortlisting notification: Friday 17th July by 1700
Orchard House is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check and safer recruitment processes.
Social Worker employer: Orchard House Family Assessment Centre
Orchard House is an exceptional employer, renowned for its Outstanding rating by Ofsted, which reflects our commitment to high-quality service and staff support. We offer a unique opportunity for Social Workers to focus on meaningful assessments without the pressure of an independent caseload, fostering professional growth in a nurturing environment. With structured induction, reflective supervision, and dedicated wellbeing support, we ensure that our team members thrive while making a significant impact on the lives of children and families.
Contact Details:
Orchard House Family Assessment Centre Recruitment Team
