At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead reviews for children in care and ensure their voices are heard.
- Company: Portsmouth City Council, dedicated to high-quality children's services.
- Benefits: £47.50 per hour, hybrid working, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Join a personal job search with a supportive team at Sheldon Phillips.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your social work career.
- Qualifications: Social Work Qualification and experience in Children's Services required.
We are currently working with Portsmouth City Council to find an experienced Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join their Children's Services team. This is an excellent opportunity to work within a well-supported service, ensuring that children in care receive high-quality care planning and that their voices remain at the centre of decision-making.
Duties:
- Chair Looked After Children (LAC) Reviews in line with statutory timescales.
- Monitor and review care plans, ensuring they remain appropriate and meet the needs of the child.
- Provide robust challenge where care planning or service delivery falls below expected standards.
- Ensure the wishes and feelings of children and young people are heard and reflected throughout the review process.
- Work collaboratively with social workers, managers, partner agencies, and families to promote positive outcomes for children.
- Maintain accurate records and produce high-quality review documentation in line with statutory requirements.
What you need:
- Social Work Qualification
- Social Work England registration
- Significant experience within Children's Services, including experience as an Independent Reviewing Officer or within Looked After Children services.
- Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, statutory guidance, and safeguarding procedures.
- Enhanced DBS (provided by us)
If you are interested in this Independent Reviewing Officer role with Portsmouth City Council, give Josh Dhumisani a call or email.
Independent Reviewing Officer - Portsmouth City Council employer: Sheldon Phillips Ltd
Sheldon Phillips Ltd is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work culture that prioritises the well-being of its employees while making a meaningful impact in the community. With opportunities for professional growth and development, particularly in the vital field of child and family assessment, staff can thrive in a hybrid working environment that promotes flexibility and collaboration with partner agencies. Join us in Hammersmith & Fulham to be part of a dedicated team committed to safeguarding and enhancing the lives of children and families.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Reviewing Officer - Portsmouth City Council
✨Get Involved in Local Communities
Social work is all about connections and community, so don’t shy away from getting hands-on. Volunteer at local charities or grassroots organisations. This not only boosts your skills but also helps you build a solid network, often leading to freelance opportunities in social work!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Create a portfolio showcasing case studies and successes from your social work. Use platforms like LinkedIn to share insights about your experiences. The more visible you are in showcasing your expertise, the more likely you are to attract clients who need your services.
✨Tap into Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Websites like The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) have resources and connections tailored for freelancers. Being active in these spaces can lead to referral opportunities and job postings that aren’t advertised elsewhere.
✨Reach Out Directly to Organisations
Don’t wait for job listings – be proactive! Reach out to local charities, schools, and health organisations to pitch your freelance services. Many times, they might not advertise for help, but would love to know you’re available. Plus, applying through our website can give you an edge in visibility!
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Reviewing Officer - Portsmouth City Council
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Experience in Social Work:When applying for a freelance social work position at Sheldon Phillips Ltd, make sure to highlight any relevant experience you've gained—whether it's through internships, volunteer work, or previous roles. Include specific examples that demonstrate your ability to handle diverse client needs and situations.
Include Your Qualifications and Certificates:Don’t forget to mention any qualifications or certifications relevant to social work, like your degree or specialised training. These can really set you apart from other candidates, especially since social work often requires specific credentials to ensure client safety and well-being.
Present a Strong Portfolio:As a freelancer, it’s great to have a portfolio that showcases your case studies or programme designs. This can help potential clients, like Sheldon Phillips Ltd, see the tangible impact of your work. Include client testimonials where possible to add credibility!
Clarify Your Availability and Rates:When you apply, be upfront about your availability and rates. Since freelance social work can be quite flexible, stating your working hours and what you charge will help Sheldon Phillips Ltd understand how you fit into their needs. It's all about setting the right expectations!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sheldon Phillips Ltd
✨Showcase Your Experience
As a freelancer in social work, it’s crucial to highlight your previous experiences. Share case studies or anecdotes that illustrate your ability to manage diverse client needs. Remember, specific situations where you made a positive impact can really set you apart!
✨Prepare for Ethical Scenarios
Expect questions about ethical dilemmas you’ve faced in your past work. Social work often involves complex situations; be prepared to discuss how you navigated those scenarios and the decisions you made. This will showcase your critical thinking and adherence to ethical standards.
✨Pitch Your Unique Approach
Freelancing means you have a unique selling point. Be ready to explain what makes your approach distinct. Whether it's a specific methodology you adhere to or a particular demographic you focus on, articulating this can convince potential clients of your value.
✨Discuss Your Availability and Rates
In a freelance interview, it’s essential to clearly discuss your availability and how you structure your rates. Be honest about what you can commit to, whether it’s hours, specific projects, or ongoing support. Transparency here builds trust with Sheldon Phillips Ltd from the get-go!