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- Tasks: Support children in care by creating and managing care plans for their wellbeing.
- Company: Join Portsmouth City Council, a vibrant community-focused organisation dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, strong leadership, and ongoing professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Initial contract of 3-6 months with potential for extension.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's lives while working in a supportive and child-centred environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Social Worker with at least 3 years' experience in child care.
Social Worker – Children in Care Team Portsmouth City Council £42 per hour competitive rate Children in Care / Looked After Children statutory team Stable long-term contract within a supportive service Strong management oversight and regular reflective supervision Opportunity to make a lasting impact on children’s permanence journeys Are you an experienced Social Worker passionate about improving outcomes for children in care? Portsmouth City Council is looking for a committed practitioner to join its Children in Care Team, where you will play a key role in supporting looked after children to achieve stability, permanence, and positive futures. This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-structured authority that values relationship-based practice, strong management support, and child-centred decision-making. Paying £42 per hour, this contract offers both a highly competitive rate and the chance to work in a service focused on long-term outcomes for children and young people. About the Local Authority Portsmouth is recognised for its child-focused approach, manageable team structures, and commitment to achieving permanence for children in care. The service places strong emphasis on direct work with children, meaningful care planning, and robust multi-agency partnerships. You will join a team where managers are visible, supervision is consistent, and practitioners are empowered to deliver high-quality interventions. Key Responsibilities Hold a caseload of looked after children and young people subject to care plans. Complete statutory visits, care planning, pathway planning, and looked after child reviews. Progress care proceedings, permanence planning, fostering, adoption, SGOs, and reunification pathways where appropriate. Work closely with foster carers, residential placements, schools, health, and partner agencies. Prepare clear and analytical court statements, care plans, CPRs, and review reports. Promote education, emotional wellbeing, placement stability, and positive identity outcomes. Undertake direct work with children to ensure their voice remains central to planning. Support young people transitioning toward leaving care and independence pathways. Candidate Requirements Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration. Previous experience in a Children in Care / Looked After Children Team. Strong knowledge of care proceedings, permanence planning, and safeguarding legislation. Confident in court work, report writing, and multi-agency collaboration. Passionate about relationship-based practice and improving long-term outcomes. Why Work With Us? £42 per hour premium pay rate. Supportive and experienced management team. Strong agency presence with stable contracts. Opportunity to work in a child-centred authority with clear permanency focus. Excellent transport links and flexible working arrangements. Referral bonus available for successful recommendations. Contact Josh Dhumisani 📞 (phone number removed)
Social Worker - Children in Care employer: Sheldon Phillips Ltd
Contact Detail:
Sheldon Phillips Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker - Children in Care
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Portsmouth City Council's values and approach to social work. Understanding their relationship-based, trauma-informed practice will help you align your experience and demonstrate how you can contribute to their child-centred service.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the Children in Care Team. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which you can leverage during your discussions with Fred Thomas.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that showcase your ability to manage caseloads effectively and build strong relationships with children and carers. This will help you illustrate your skills in a practical context during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and legislation related to looked after children. Being knowledgeable about recent changes can demonstrate your commitment to professional development and your readiness to tackle the challenges in this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker - Children in Care
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Social Worker position within the Children in Care Team. Familiarise yourself with the key duties mentioned in the job description.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience, particularly your work with looked after children. Emphasise your qualifications, post-qualified experience, and any specific skills that align with the role's requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for social work and your understanding of trauma-informed practices. Mention how your experience aligns with the values of Portsmouth City Council and your commitment to improving children's lives.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sheldon Phillips Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of care planning, safeguarding, and permanency processes. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're well-prepared and understand the key responsibilities of a Social Worker in the Children in Care Team.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experience working with looked after children. Highlight how you've managed caseloads, built relationships, and collaborated with partner agencies. This will demonstrate your practical skills and ability to make a meaningful difference.
✨Emphasise Relationship-Building
Since the role focuses on building strong, consistent relationships with children and carers, be ready to discuss your approach to relationship-based practice. Share how you establish trust and rapport, and why this is crucial in social work.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team culture, support systems, and professional development opportunities at Portsmouth City Council. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.