Social Worker – Children’s Residential

Essex County Counci; Colchester; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to make a profound difference in the lives of young people. This role involves working in a multi-agency team to support children aged 11-17 in residential care, ensuring their safety and well-being. You will assess complex needs, devise tailored support plans, and collaborate with various stakeholders to foster independence and resilience. With opportunities for professional growth and a supportive environment, this position is perfect for those passionate about creating positive change in their community. Join us in building a brighter future for children and families.

Benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Supportive team environment

Impactful work

Qualifications

• A recognised social work qualification and current registration with Social Work England.
• Experience in challenging social and family situations.

Responsibilities

• Support young people to return home or transition to stable placements.
• Complete assessments and reports to support care and move plans.
• Collaborate with internal and external agencies.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Experience in challenging social situations

Clear decision-making

Building relationships with partners

Education

Recognised social work qualification

Job description

Social Worker - Children's Residential

Permanent, Full Time

£36,101 to £48,622 per annum

Location: Colchester

Working Style: Community-based worker

Closing Date: 26th January 2025

Interview Date: 13th & 18th February 2025

This position is open to Newly Qualified Social Workers (NQSWs) and experienced Social Workers. (The starting salary for a NQSW is £33,885 per annum and this will rise to £36,101 per annum on successful completion of the ASYE programme).

The Opportunity

At the heart of our community, you’ll find Children and Families, a beacon of collaboration, integrity, and compassion. We are dedicated to nurturing the growth and wellbeing of children and young people, shielding them from neglect and abuse. Our mission is to work hand-in-hand with our partners to deliver a spectrum of early help, family support, and effective social work interventions. Our goal? To build resilience, dismantle barriers, and empower children and young people to envision a future filled with promise and potential.

Essex County Council is investing in and expanding its portfolio of internal children’s residential homes. These homes will serve as safe havens, offering stable, short-term, and supportive placements for young people aged 11-17 years, who, for the time being, are unable to live with their birth families. By joining us, you’ll be making a profound difference in their lives.

We are currently looking for a passionate and dedicated Social Worker to work across a number of group care and solo homes in the areas of Colchester and Basildon. This will be part of a multi-agency team, with a psychotherapist and teacher alongside an extensive residential staff team.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Work with young people and families that are receiving a service, support young people to return home when safe to do so or transition on to longer term, stable placements.
2. Complete assessments and reports where required to support young people’s care and move plans.
3. Be a part of the management teams across multiple homes.
4. Work in partnership with internal and external agencies.
5. Support the children’s homes on call system.

Assess Needs & Devise Plans: Assess complex social care needs and create tailored support plans for families.

Legal Adherence: Ensure all actions comply with legal frameworks for statutory intervention.

Collaborate & Support: Work with various stakeholders and partners to provide comprehensive support to children and families.

Child-Centred Approaches: Develop strategies for early intervention, prevention, and fostering independence.

Influence & Plan: Play a key role in inter-agency planning and decision-making, contributing to case discussions and interventions.

Clear Communication: Articulate assessments and professional judgments clearly, both orally and in written reports, including court statements.

What We Offer:

A Supportive Environment: Work in a team that values collaboration and mutual support.

Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous learning and career development.

Impactful Work: Make a real difference in the lives of children and young people.

If you are passionate about making a difference and have the skills and dedication to support children and families, we would love to hear from you!

Apply now and be a part of our mission to build a brighter future for children and young people.

Requirements:

• A recognised social work qualification and current registration with Social Work England.
• Continued professional development in line with relevant competency frameworks.
• Experience in challenging social and family situations.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with diverse groups.
• Building strong relationships with partners and the community to achieve shared goals.
• Understanding the balance between cost-effective interventions and meeting needs.
• Demonstrated ability in clear decision-making to manage potential risks associated with interventions.

Essex County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.