Consultant Social Worker

Suffolk County Council; Stowmarket; Hybrid; GBP 41,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Consultant Social Worker to join their management team in Stowmarket. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and families across Suffolk. As part of a dedicated team, you will supervise social workers, make critical management decisions, and implement innovative practices in child protection. With flexible working options and a commitment to professional development, this position is perfect for those passionate about social work and community improvement. Join a forward-thinking organization that values diversity and empowers its staff to create positive change.

Qualifications

• Must have a relevant Social Work qualification and registration.
• Substantial experience working with children and families required.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and support a team of Social Workers.
• Make management decisions regarding case work.
• Implement the Signs of Safety approach in child protection.

Skills

Social Work

Management

Child Protection

Communication

Education

Relevant Social Work Qualification

Social Work England Registration

Management and Leadership Qualification

Job description

• Suffolk County Council - The Mix, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1BB - Hybrid
• £41,077 to £44,305 per annum (pro rata for part time)
• Retention payment of up to £3,500 per annum (pro rata for part time)
• 37 hours per week, Flexible working options available
• Permanent

At Suffolk County Council, every role is a chance to create positive change. We're not just a local authority; we're a team of dedicated individuals working together to improve lives across our diverse communities. As our new Consultant Social Worker, you'll have the unique opportunity to see the direct impact of your work on the people and places that make Suffolk special. Your contributions will help build a brighter future for all. If you're passionate about making a real, tangible difference, it's time to reimagine your career with us. Join Suffolk County Council and turn your passion for positive change into action.

Your role and responsibilities

You will:

• Form part of our management team
• Work alongside the Practice Manager in advising, supporting and supervising a team of Social Workers
• Deputise for the Practice Manager
• Confidently make management decisions regarding case work
• Communicate effectively with a range of agencies
• Be at the forefront of using the Signs of Safety development - this is the government-backed, national innovative, strengths-based, safety-organised approach to child protection casework.

You will need:

• A relevant Social Work qualification
• A Social Work England registration (essential)
• Substantial social work experience of working with children and families
• Management and leadership qualification desirable

You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile (docx). If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.

The team

The Central Social Care Team is situated in a large rural locality, working with families and their children from 0-18 years of age. The team is responsible for undertaking social work assessments, s47 investigations and supporting families under child in need and child protection planning. This can additionally include welfare reports within private law proceedings, work within the PLO process and with public law proceedings and when children are initially accommodated by the Local Authority until transfer to the child in care team. There is an emphasis on trauma-informed and relationship-based practice underpinned by Suffolk’s Signs of Safety + framework, alongside well-embedded partnership working in the local community. There are opportunities for training and career progression with a strong team and learning culture.

Empowering Everyone

We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report (suffolk.gov.uk).

For more information

Please contact Laura Goldsmith (she/her) on 01449 745155 or emailing [e-mail]

How to apply

Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (docx)

Step 2 -Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.

Step 3 -Upload a supporting statement indicating how you meet each of the criteria in the ‘Person Profile’ section of the JPP.

• You should use the Supporting Statement template (docx).
• Please use Arial font size 11 and keep your statement to a maximum of two sides of A4.

Please note: Without a supporting statement, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format. If you would like an adjustment to this process due to a disability, please contact us at 03456 014412 or [e-mail]

Closing date: 11.30 pm, 5 January 2025

This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.