Experienced Qualified Social Worker

Islington Council; Remote; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government organization in Bournemouth is seeking a passionate Qualified Social Worker for the role of Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO). This temporary position involves conducting regular reviews of care plans for children, ensuring their voices are heard in the process. Candidates should have a relevant Social Work qualification, current Social Work England registration, and at least 3 years of experience in children's services. A supportive environment, professional development opportunities, and flexible working arrangements are offered.

Benefits

Professional development

Ongoing training

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Relevant Social Work qualification required.
• Must have current Social Work England registration.
• Minimum 3 years' experience in children's services required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct regular reviews of care plans for children and young people.
• Collaborate with social workers and foster carers for the best outcomes.
• Chair all Looked After Children reviews and Child Protection conferences.

Skills

Child protection

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Organisational skills

Education

BA Social Work or MA Social Work

Social Work England registration

Job description

Overview

Are you an experienced and passionate Qualified Social Worker looking for an exciting opportunity in Islington? We are currently seeking an Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join our dedicated team on a temporary basis at a competitive rate of £45.20 per hour (Umbrella). This role is crucial in ensuring that the needs and rights of children in care are upheld and that their voices are heard throughout the reviewing process. As an IRO, you will be responsible for a variety of key duties, including:

Responsibilities

• Conducting regular reviews of care plans for children and young people in care.
• Ensuring that the views of children and families are central to the review process.
• Working collaboratively with social workers, foster carers, and other professionals to promote the best outcomes for children.
• Monitoring compliance with statutory requirements and local policies.
• Providing guidance and support to social workers and other staff on best practices in case management.
• Chairing all Looked After Children reviews and Child Protection conferences in person.
• Ensuring statutory processes are followed, children’s plans are robust, outcome-focused, and progressed within required timescales.
• Providing professional oversight and escalation when concerns arise regarding drift, delay, or quality of practice.
• Collaborating with social workers, managers, and multi‑agency partners to ensure effective safeguarding practice.
• Offering scrutiny, challenge, and quality assurance to care planning, assessments, and decision‑making.
• Managing incoming safeguarding referrals and screening them in line with MASH thresholds.
• Gathering and analysing information from partner agencies to inform decisions.
• Providing clear recommendations for Early Help, Child in Need, or Child Protection pathways.
• Ensuring timely safeguarding interventions through collaboration with multi‑agency partners.
• Maintaining high‑quality, accurate case recording and compliance with statutory guidance.
• Managing a complex caseload of children and families subject to Child in Need and Child Protection plans.
• Undertaking detailed assessments, formulating care and safety plans, and progressing cases through to positive outcomes.
• Engaging directly with children, families, and partner agencies to support effective safeguarding.
• Preparing and presenting clear reports for case conferences and reviews.
• Chairing fostering reviews, ensuring compliance with fostering regulations, and supporting high practice standards across the service.

Qualifications and Experience

• A relevant Social Work qualification (e.g., BA Social Work, MA Social Work, or equivalent).
• Current Social Work England registration.
• Proven experience in child protection and working with children in care.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with children, families, and professionals.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage a caseload effectively.
• At least 3 years’ experience as a social worker within children’s services.
• Driving licence and access to own vehicle (where required).

What We Offer

We provide a supportive working environment, opportunities for professional development, ongoing training and supervision, as well as flexible and hybrid working arrangements.

How to Apply

If you are ready to take on this rewarding challenge, we encourage you to apply today and join our committed team in Islington.