At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise social workers and support children with disabilities in a dynamic team environment.
- Company: Join Thurrock Council, dedicated to improving lives of children and families.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Stable team with opportunities for continuous improvement and reflective practice.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Social Worker with experience in children's social care and strong decision-making skills.
The predicted salary is between 45624 - 52038 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Deputy Team Manager to join our Children with Disabilities Team at Thurrock Council. We are seeking an experienced, energetic, and passionate qualified social worker with experience in a statutory setting. You will be a collaborative team player, able to motivate, support, and empower the staff you supervise. You will think creatively and work effectively in partnership with colleagues and multi-agency professionals.
As a Deputy Team Manager, you will directly supervise three social workers within the Review Team, providing case supervision and clear direction. The Review Team supports children subject to Child in Need plans and undertakes the review and assessment of care packages. You will deputise for the Team Manager as required, contributing to leadership and the day-to-day management of the team to ensure the delivery of a safe, high-quality service to children and families in line with legislation, guidance, and local policies.
You will support the Team Manager in overseeing team performance and ensuring practice standards are maintained in line with national standards and corporate objectives. You will hold a small caseload of complex cases and support colleagues to develop their skills and embed strong, reflective practice. You will be motivated to drive continuous improvement within the team and service, and able to build effective and timely relationships with key stakeholders. You will join a dynamic, passionate, and committed team where interventions make a direct difference to the lives of children and families. You will receive regular reflective supervision. The Children with Disabilities Team benefits from a stable and permanent workforce, committed to delivering high-quality practice.
What We’re Looking For
- A qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.
- Significant post-qualifying experience in children’s social care, including Children with Disabilities services.
- Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Children Act 1989/2004, Care Act, and SEND framework.
- Demonstrable experience of safeguarding, risk assessment, and care planning for children with complex needs.
- Proven ability to support and develop staff, including supervising social workers and practitioners.
- Confidence in deputising for the Team Manager and contributing to operational management of the service.
- Strong decision-making skills with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
- Experience of working in multi-agency environments and building strong professional partnerships.
- Commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children, young people, and their families.
- Excellent communication, report writing, and recording skills.
- Ability to lead on quality assurance and drive continuous service improvement.
- Resilient, adaptable, and able to work in a fast-paced, high-demand environment.
- A clear understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion, particularly in relation to disability.
- Commitment to reflective practice, learning, and continuous professional development.
Thurrock Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.
Essential Qualifications: Social Work Degree and registered with SWE.
DBS Check: This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check, including a Children’s Barred List check.
Important Dates
- Closing Date (Redeployment Only): 31st August 2026
- Closing Date (Internal & External): 13th September 2026
- Interview Date: To Be Confirmed
If you have any questions about the role or interview process, please contact: Sarah Hurley – Team Manager shurley@thurrock.gov.uk
To view the job Profile and Person Specification, please follow the link below: Download Job Profile (PDF Document)
If the Job Profile and Person Specification list any qualifications as essential, please also upload copies of those relevant qualifications.
Safer Recruitment Application Requirements
As part of the Safer Recruitment process, Gap Management from when leaving full-time education is required for all Safeguarding roles. Please complete the Gaps in Employment grid provided (refer to the example document for guidance) and upload it under Miscellaneous Documents as part of your application. Please provide a full history with explanations of any gaps and ensure you also upload a copy of your full CV.
Deputy Team Manager - Children with Disabilities Team in Grays employer: Thurrock Council
Thurrock Council is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where your contributions directly impact local governance and community development. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, you will receive comprehensive support in your role as a Political Assistant, fostering both professional and personal development. The hybrid working model promotes a healthy work-life balance, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in public service.
