At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and develop foster carers to ensure the wellbeing of children in care.
- Company: Join Essex County Council, a leading local authority with an Outstanding Ofsted rating.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and support for professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career advancement and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while growing your social work career.
- Qualifications: Recognised social work qualification and experience in fostering or child protection.
The predicted salary is between 51834 - 51834 £ per year.
Fixed Term, Full Time £38,487 to £51,834 per annum
Location: Chelmsford
Working Style: Anywhere worker
Closing Date: 28th July 2026
This is a 2 year Fixed Term Contract or Secondment Opportunity.
Here in Essex, we continue to raise the bar about practice and our investment in our workforce is second to none. It’s an exciting time to join us having received our 2nd Outstanding Ofsted rating in a row.
The role of Supervising Social Worker within Fostering:
- Support, monitor and develop local authority foster carers in accordance with the 2011 National Minimum Standards for Fostering and Fostering Service regulations to safeguard the wellbeing of Children in Care.
- Co-lead training events for foster carers and undertake updated assessments of carers when change of circumstances occur.
- Good report writing is required.
- Support foster carers through regular home visits and telephone contact, including at least one unannounced visit every year.
- Monitor and review the care provided by foster carers to children placed in their care, ensuring that they provide a safe, healthy and nurturing environment.
- Ensure that foster carer’s annual household reviews are completed within timescales and follow Fostering Panel processes.
- Support foster carers through complaints procedures and child protection procedures.
- Participate in the matching process when children and young people are placed with foster carers.
- Ensure that foster carers receive all appropriate documentation regarding each child or young person placed.
- Work with foster carers to encourage and support contact for children and young people in accordance with their care plans.
- Assist the foster carer in ensuring that children and young people are heard in reviews, planning and in pursuing any complaints.
- Required to work flexibly as required, including evenings and weekends if necessary.
Skills and Knowledge:
- A recognised social work qualification i.e. Diploma, degree or master’s in social work, CQSW, CSS or equivalent, with current registration with Social Work England as a registered social worker.
- Evidence of continuing professional development aligned to any relevant Professional Competency/Capability frameworks or Knowledge and Skills Statements.
- Significant experience of social work, demonstrating a comprehensive and up to date understanding of all relevant legislation, regulation and guidance.
- Experience of chairing meetings involving clients, family members and/or carers and other multi-agency professionals.
- Developing strong relationships with partners, other agencies and the local community.
- In depth understanding of delivery of value for money interventions balanced against need.
- Proven track record of clear decision making in order to highlight and limit the potential risks associated with intervention.
Essex County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. We’re committed to interview all disabled applicants who choose to apply under our Job Interview Scheme if they meet the minimum requirements of the job.
The role requires you to be mobile throughout a wider operational area including travelling around the county of Essex and beyond, transporting service users and their belongings.
Driving licence and car or the ability to meet the mobility requirements of the role through other means is essential.
Essex County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
Supervising Social Worker, Mid Fostering Team in Chelmsford employer: Working for Essex
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and innovative work environment for Supervising Social Workers in the Mid Fostering Team. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a focus on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, you will be part of a dynamic team that has achieved outstanding recognition. Join us in making a meaningful impact within the community while enjoying comprehensive benefits and opportunities for professional growth in the vibrant location of Chelmsford.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Supervising Social Worker, Mid Fostering Team in Chelmsford
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Working for Essex, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Supervising Social Worker, Mid Fostering Team in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Working for Essex. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Working for Essex. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Working for Essex
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Working for Essex.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Supervising Social Worker, Mid Fostering Team role at Working for Essex, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Working for Essex that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
