Social Worker - Bournemouth

Assessment Social Worker – BCP Council

£38 - £40 per hour

Hybrid Working: 3 Days in the Office

• Up to £40 per hour
• Hybrid working model with 3 days per week in the office
• Work within a fast-paced and supportive Assessment Service
• Manage a varied caseload involving Child and Family Assessments and safeguarding work
• Opportunity to make immediate and meaningful interventions for children and families
• Stable management structure with strong team support and supervision

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity within frontline children's services? BCP Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Social Worker to join their Assessment Service on a well-paid locum contract offering up to £40 per hour. This is an excellent opportunity to join a service that plays a critical role in ensuring children and families receive the right support at the earliest opportunity. You will work alongside experienced managers and multi-agency partners to complete timely assessments, identify risk, and develop effective plans that improve outcomes for children.

About the Authority: BCP Council is committed to delivering high-quality services for children and families across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. The authority continues to invest in its frontline teams, creating manageable caseloads, accessible management support, and a positive working culture where practitioners are empowered to deliver meaningful interventions. The service offers a collaborative environment where social workers are encouraged to develop professionally whilst maintaining a healthy work-life balance through flexible and hybrid working arrangements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments in line with statutory timescales.
• Manage referrals received through the front door and determine appropriate interventions.
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries where required.
• Assess risk and protective factors to inform decision making and planning.
• Develop and implement effective child-centred plans to safeguard children and promote positive outcomes.
• Undertake direct work with children and families to understand their lived experiences.
• Prepare reports, assessments and recommendations for internal meetings and legal processes where required.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including education, health, police and early help services.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case recordings in accordance with statutory guidance and local procedures.
• Participate in team meetings, supervision and service development activities.

Candidate Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with Social Work England.
• Previous experience working within an Assessment, Duty and Assessment, or Front Door service.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation including the Children Act 1989 and Working Together guidance.
• Experience completing Child and Family Assessments, Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries.
• Ability to manage competing priorities within a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent assessment, communication and report writing skills.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle is desirable.

Why Work With Us:

• Competitive pay of up to £40 per hour.
• Hybrid working with 3 office days per week and flexibility to work from home for the remainder.
• Supportive management team with regular supervision.
• Opportunity to work within a stable and experienced service.
• Access to a wide range of training and professional development opportunities.
• Make a genuine difference to children and families at the point where intervention matters most.
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement.
• Referral bonus available for successful recommendations.

For more information or to apply, please contact: Josh Dhumisani