Senior Social Work Practitioner - IAA Team

Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council; Ebbw Vale; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Ebbw Vale is seeking a Senior Social Work Practitioner to guide assessments and support families. This role involves leading a team, mentoring practitioners, and ensuring quality decision-making in Children’s Services. Candidates should have substantial experience in social work and a commitment to child-centred practices. Competitive salary, pension scheme, and ongoing learning opportunities offered.

Benefits

Competitive Salary

Local Government Pension Scheme

Ongoing Learning & Development

Generous Annual Leave

Supportive Team Environment

Qualifications

• Skilled and compassionate social worker with significant post-qualifying experience.
• Ability to balance risk and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Strong commitment to child-centred practice.

Responsibilities

• Lead decision-making on new referrals and ensure robust assessments.
• Provide mentorship and supervision to team members.
• Chair strategy discussions and quality assure team work.

Skills

Assessment skills

Analytical skills

Decision-making under pressure

Mentoring and leadership

Education

Relevant degree in social work

Job description

Overview

Lead with purpose. Guide with integrity. Make a difference every day. Are you an experienced social worker ready to step into a pivotal leadership role? Do you want to work in a team where your voice matters, your expertise is recognised, and your impact is immediate?

At Blaenau Gwent, we’re not just offering a job – we’re offering an opportunity to be part of a dynamic service that’s redefining first-point-of-contact social care. As a Senior Social Work Practitioner in our Information, Advice and Assistance (IAA) Team, you’ll play a key role in delivering high-quality, strengths-based support to children and families at the earliest possible stage. If you’re passionate about early intervention, decision-making, and developing others – this is the role for you.

About the role

This is a fast-paced, rewarding role at the front door of Children’s Services. As Senior Practitioner, you’ll take the lead in decision-making on new referrals, supporting the team to complete proportionate assessments that identify “what matters” to families and determine whether their needs can be met through preventative services or statutory intervention.

You’ll provide day-to-day guidance, mentoring and supervision to a team of committed practitioners, helping ensure every assessment is robust, timely and rooted in meaningful outcomes. You’ll chair strategy discussions, review and quality assure the team’s work, and act as a deputy for the Team Manager when required – gaining valuable experience in service leadership.

About you

You’re a skilled, confident and compassionate social worker with significant post-qualifying experience and a drive for quality practice. You know how to balance risk, make sound decisions under pressure, and build effective relationships with families and professionals alike.

Whether you’re already working at senior level or are an experienced practitioner looking to progress, you bring excellent assessment and analytical skills, a positive attitude, and a clear commitment to child-centred practice.

You understand the value of early help, the importance of safeguarding, and the power of listening. You lead by example, encourage reflective thinking, and thrive when mentoring others to be their best.

About us

The Information, Advice and Assistance Team is the gateway to our Children’s Services – and we take that responsibility seriously. As part of an experienced and supportive multi-agency team, you’ll work in an environment that values collaboration, critical thinking, and professional curiosity.

At Blaenau Gwent, we’re proud of our strong team culture, open leadership and commitment to continuous learning. We support our social workers to grow, reflect and innovate – because we know that the best outcomes for families come from confident, well-supported practitioners.

What we offer

• Competitive Salary: We value your experience and expertise and offer a highly competitive salary package.
• Local Government Pension Scheme: Enjoy peace of mind with our excellent pension benefits.
• Ongoing Learning & Development: Take advantage of training and development opportunities to enhance your career.
• Generous Annual Leave: Benefit from a substantial leave allowance to support your work-life balance.
• Supportive Team Environment: Work within a collaborative and inclusive culture that values your contributions.

Ready to make a difference?

If you’re passionate about early intervention, love leading others, and want to help shape the future of social care in Blaenau Gwent – we want to hear from you.

Apply today and help us make a difference from the very first call.

For an informal discussion about the role, contact: Stacey Smith | [e-mail]

Thorough pre-employment screening is undertaken during the recruitment process. The post holder will be required to complete an application for a Disclosure of Criminal Records.

Closing Date: 24/09/2025 – 12:00am, midnight

Interview Date: To Be Confirmed