Qualified Social Worker (Children's)

neway international; Bridgwater; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in Bridgwater seeks an experienced Temporary Duty Social Worker for the Safeguarding Team. Responsibilities include supporting safeguarding tasks and engaging with families to improve outcomes. Candidates must be registered Social Workers with strong communication and assessment skills, and must hold a valid UK driving licence. This position involves flexibility with office attendance and travel across Somerset.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience working with children and families in social work.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (travel required across Somerset).
• Ability to work flexibly, with office presence required most of the week.

Responsibilities

• Undertake duty tasks for children subject to Child in Need and Child Protection Plans.
• Support teams covering staff absence.
• Use motivational interviewing techniques to support families.

Skills

Relationship-based practice

Creative problem-solving

Strong communication skills

Assessment skills

Education

Qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England

Job description

Somerset Council is committed to delivering high-quality services across Children’s Social Care. This role sits within the Children Families & Education Service > Children & Families > C&F Help & Protect > C&F Operations Bridgwater, supporting safeguarding teams to protect children and improve outcomes for families.

Role: Temporary Duty Social Worker - Safeguarding Team

We are seeking an experienced Children’s Social Worker to provide consistent duty support to safeguarding teams. You will undertake duty tasks for children subject to Child in Need and Child Protection Plans, pre-proceedings, and legal proceedings, ensuring families receive timely and effective support.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake duty tasks for children subject to Child in Need and Child Protection Plans.
• Support teams covering staff absence, enabling social workers to focus on allocated families.
• Work alongside adult-focused practitioners in areas such as substance misuse, domestic abuse, and mental health.
• Engage with parents and family networks, using Family Group Conferencing to identify strengths and tackle challenges.
• Contribute to assessments and plans, supported by the Duty Team Manager and backup duty workers.
• Participate in regular group and personal supervision with permanent Team Managers.
• Use motivational interviewing techniques to support families in achieving sustainable change.
• Maintain accurate records using Somerset’s Magic Notes system.

Qualifications

• Qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England.
• Substantial experience working with children and families in social work.
• Passion for relationship-based practice and creative problem-solving.
• Strong communication and assessment skills.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (travel required across Somerset).
• Ability to work flexibly, with office presence required most of the week.