Social Worker - Children in Care, Harlow (Permanent Role)

Essex County Council; Harlow; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in the UK is looking for a Qualified Social Worker to work with children and young people up to 18. Responsibilities include preparing court reports, developing permanency plans, and visiting children in placement. Candidates require relevant qualifications, strong communication skills, and flexibility for working hours. Join us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children in care.

Qualifications

• Experience in court work and complex safeguarding.
• Proficiency in case recording.
• Full driving licence and access to transport.

Responsibilities

• Preparing court reports and care planning.
• Developing permanency plans, including SGO and adoption.
• Visiting children in placement.

Skills

Strong communication

Analytical skills

Organisational skills

Flexibility

Education

Qualified Social Worker (CQSW, CSS, DipSW, or Degree)

Tools

IT systems

Job description

Overview

You will work with children and young people up to 18 years old, whether in foster care, residential placements, or preparing for permanency.

Responsibilities

• Preparing court reports, care planning, and supporting adoption where required
• Developing permanency plans, including SGO and adoption
• Visiting children in placement and ensuring their voices are heard
• Undertaking life-story work to help young people understand their journey
• Supporting family reunification where possible

Qualifications and Experience

• Qualified Social Worker (CQSW, CSS, DipSW, or Degree) registered with Social Work England
• Experience in court work and complex safeguarding
• Strong communication, analytical and organisational skills
• Proficiency in case recording and IT systems
• Flexibility to meet the needs of children, including some evenings/weekends
• Full driving licence and access to transport

Why Essex?

Why Essex? As one of the UK's most dynamic local authorities, Essex offers an innovative working culture, strong career pathways, and a commitment to wellbeing and flexible working.

Join us to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children in care.