Childrens Social Worker Assessment & Support

Herefordshire Council; Hereford; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in the UK is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Assessment Team. This vital role focuses on conducting high-quality assessments to support children and families in need. The ideal candidate will be passionate about making a difference, possess relevant qualifications, and thrive in a collaborative environment. Flexible working options and competitive compensation packages are on offer.

Benefits

Salary range £36,363 – £40,777

Market rate supplement: £5,000

Welcome Payment: £10,000

Relocation support up to £10,000

Professional development opportunities

Enrolment in Local Government Pension Scheme

31 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Flexible working options

Employee Assistance Programme

Payment of professional membership fees

Responsibilities

• First point of contact for children and families needing support.
• Complete assessments to understand families' circumstances.
• Ensure children's voices are central to the work.
• Collaborate with families and provide early help.
• Investigate concerns to make support decisions.

Skills

Analytical skills

Collaborative working

Resilience

Decision-making

Fast-paced team contribution

Education

Registered with Social Work England

Recognised Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW or CQSW)

Job description

Job Overview

Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of children and families? We are looking for a skilled and committed Social Worker to join our Assessment Team. In this vital role, you will be the first point of contact for children, young people, and families in need of support. You will complete timely and high-quality assessments to understand each family’s circumstances, identify strengths, and determine the most appropriate help or intervention. Your work will ensure that children are safe, supported, and able to thrive with their voices at the centre of everything you do. Our focus is on working collaboratively with families from the very beginning, offering early help where possible and taking decisive action when necessary. We are committed to empowering families to make positive and lasting changes while ensuring that every child’s welfare remains our top priority. You will work directly with children and families, alongside other staff within the Directorate and partner agencies. Ensuring referrals are responded to in a child‑focused and timely way, you will carry out assessments and investigate concerns so that a decision can be made regarding the most appropriate support for the child and family. Herefordshire is on a journey, and we would like you to be part of our next chapter. This is an exciting opportunity to have a genuine impact on the local authority and help improve the lives of children and young people across our communities.

Equality & Diversity

• Those who indicate that they have a disability – part of our commitment to the "Disability Confident" scheme.
• Those who indicate in their application that they are an Armed Forces Veteran or Reservist – part of our pledge to support the Armed Forces Covenant.
• Those who indicate in their application that they are a Herefordshire care leaver – part of our commitment to supporting young people leaving our care.
• We take our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults seriously. Any staff, visitors and volunteers must share in this commitment and, if offered this position, the role will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service enhanced check and further pre‑employment checks.

Key Responsibilities

• Be the first point of contact for children, young people, and families in need of support.
• Complete timely and high‑quality assessments to understand each family’s circumstances, identify strengths, and determine the most appropriate help or intervention.
• Ensure children are safe, supported, and able to thrive with their voices at the centre of all work.
• Work collaboratively with families from the very beginning, offering early help where possible and taking decisive action when necessary.
• Carry out assessments and investigate concerns so that a decision can be made regarding the most appropriate support for the child and family.

Desired Qualities

• Passionate about making a difference for children and families through high‑quality assessments and early intervention.
• Skilled in analysis, planning, and decision‑making, ensuring each child’s needs are clearly understood and effectively met.
• Committed to working collaboratively, inclusively, and creatively with families and partner agencies.
• Resilient, reflective, and confident in managing complex situations and making sound professional judgments.
• Able to thrive in a supportive, fast‑paced team environment, contributing to a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Qualifications & Experience

• Registered with Social Work England and hold a recognised Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW or CQSW).

Assessment & Support Service

The Assessment and Support service is made up of three teams, which work out of three locality offices: South Locality (Ross‑on‑Wye), North Locality (Leominster) and Central Locality (Hereford). Each team comprises a Team Manager, Senior Practitioner, Social Workers, and Family Support Workers. Locality working gives you the opportunity to stay connected, meet new colleagues, and easily access support.

Benefits

• Salary range: £36,363 – £40,777 per annum.
• Market rate supplement: £5,000 per annum.
• Welcome Payment: £10,000.
• Retention payment: £2,000 – £4,000 depending on team.
• Relocation packages: support of up to £10,000.
• Professional development: protected time and budget to develop your career.
• Enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
• Career progression: clear pathways to progress.
• Annual Leave: 31 days (pro‑rated) plus bank holidays; additional days available for purchase.
• Flexible working: including job sharing, part‑time hours and agile working.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 access to support and counselling.
• Payment of professional membership fees (based on role requirements).
• Pick your perks – retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits (savings, cashback and discounts).