Social Worker - Children in Care Court

Northamptonshire Children's Trust; Manchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional children's welfare organization is seeking an experienced Children's Social Worker to join their team in Manchester. This role involves conducting assessments, managing case plans, and building relationships with children and families. The ideal candidate will be a qualified and registered social worker with strong communication skills, analytical capabilities, and the confidence to attend court independently. Benefits include a substantial welcome bonus, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

SWE Registration paid yearly

Recruitment Welcome Bonus of £6,000

Relocation costs of up to £8,000

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Experienced qualified, registered social worker.
• Completed ASYE (Approved Social Work Experience).
• Confidence and capability to attend court independently.

Responsibilities

• Conduct clear, accurate assessments of children in care.
• Coordinate multi-agency approaches and manage case plans.
• Build positive, strength-based relationships.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Relationship-building

Analytical ability

Decision-making

Education

Registered social worker

Completed ASYE

Job description

Role Overview

As a Children's Social Worker at Northamptonshire Children's Trust, you'll join a supportive learning culture, be able to influence change, challenge others and share your expertise. Our Children in Care Team provides oversight for all the children in care in Northamptonshire, including children subject to legal proceedings and those with a plan to remain long term in our care. We focus on building meaningful relationships with young people, their families and carers to ensure that we plan effectively for the future of every child. This fast‑paced and busy role strives to deliver positive outcomes for our children and families in collaboration with our colleagues in the Leaving Care Service and our external partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct clear, accurate assessments of children in care.
• Coordinate multi‑agency approaches and manage case plans.
• Build positive, strength‑based relationships with children, young people, families and carers.
• Attend court on your own when necessary.
• Deliver best practice social care supported by experienced colleagues and managers.
• Analyse and make decisions to deliver purposeful and effective support.

Qualifications & Experience

• Experienced qualified, registered social worker.
• Completed ASYE (Approved Social Work Experience).
• Strong communication and relationship‑building skills.
• Confidence and capability to attend court independently.
• Analytical and decision‑making ability to deliver effective social care.

Equal Opportunities

We are a disability confident employer and guarantee an interview to care leavers who meet the essential criteria.

Benefits

• SWE Registration paid yearly (social care colleagues)
• Recruitment Welcome Bonus of £6,000
• Relocation costs of up to £8,000
• Retention bonus payments for established personnel
• 28 days annual leave, plus 8 Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time) and an additional 5 days after 5 years
• Local Government Pension Scheme plus immediate life cover (3 times your annual salary from day one) and ill‑health pension protection.
• Opportunity to purchase up to 25 days annual leave
• Employee Assistance Programme – independent external organisation, 24/7/365 telephone counselling, legal advice, bereavement support and medical information for you and your immediate family.
• Employee discounts with local and national retailers, days out, finance, health and beauty, travel and eating out.
• Flexible and family working arrangements including enhanced maternity benefits
• A permanent, supportive and inclusive management team where you will be empowered to make good professional decisions
• Extensive Learning & Development and career development opportunities
• Subsidised town centre car parking scheme