Social Worker - Fostering

Derbyshire County Council; Buxton; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Local Government Pension Scheme

Flexi time

Travel expenses

Derbyshire Rewards - Discounts

Job summary

Derbyshire County Council is seeking a qualified Social Worker to join the Fostering Team as a Supervising Social Worker in Buxton. The role focuses on supervising and supporting approved Foster Carers and contributing to service development.

You will work with Children's Social Workers, carry out annual Foster Carer reviews, participate in Foster Panel activities, and cover fostering duties as needed. A supportive team and progression opportunities are offered.

Qualifications

• Qualified Social Worker for fostering service.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and support approved Foster Carers in line with standards and guidance.
• Collaborate with Children's Social Workers and other professionals.
• Attend Foster Panel and facilitate regular Carer support groups.
• Contribute to Foster Carer reviews and rota for fostering duty.

Skills

Assessment skills

Analytical skills

Written and verbal communication

Job description

Social Worker - Fostering Supervising Social Worker

Derbyshire is a large authority divided into six localities: Amber Valley, Chesterfield, Erewash, High Peak (Buxton, Glossop, New Mills, and Matlock), Bolsover and North-East, and South Derbyshire. Our Fostering Service operates across High Peak, South Derbyshire, North East Derbyshire & Chesterfield.

A new and exciting opportunity has arisen for a qualified Social Worker to join Derbyshire's Fostering Team. In this role you will contribute to the supervision and support of approved Foster Carers. You will also contribute to the ongoing development of the team, fostering service and Derbyshire's commitment to achieving good outcomes for children.

This position will involve the regular supervision and support of approved Foster Carers in line with the Fostering National Minimum Standards and Statutory Guidance (2011) – The role will also include joint and collaborative working with children's Social Workers and other professionals, completing annual Foster Carer reviews, attending Foster Panel, facilitating regular Foster Carer support groups, and being on a rota for Fostering duty.

The successful applicant will be supported through monthly reflective case supervision and if needed matched with a mentor in the team. Experience of supporting Foster Carers previously is desirable but not essential as is an understanding of the national and local issues and dilemma's facing Foster Carers – The successful applicant will need to evidence strong assessment and analytical skills and excellent communication skills both written and verbal.

The position is based in Buxton. The flexibility to cover other areas in Derbyshire and out of County is needed from time to time.

Derbyshire County Council is ambitious and innovative, offering support to both newly qualified and experienced social workers. We provide a nurturing environment with excellent progression opportunities. Our vision is to inspire and empower children, young people, and their families to be the best they can be.

Join a workforce where 94% of staff in Children's Social Work are proud to work for Derbyshire County Council, according to our Annual Employee Survey 2022.

What can you expect from us?

We value your hard work and commitment, offering a comprehensive package that includes:

• Achievable case loads
• Accelerated pay progression
• Access to training and development opportunities
• Systemic training equivalent to a Post Graduate Certificate
• Excellent supervision and a supportive peer network
• Effective leadership and management
• Career progression and formal qualifications opportunities
• Diverse range of cases for a rewarding career
• Covered DBS fee and Social Work England registration fee reimbursement

Enjoy being a part of our team with benefits such as:

• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Flexi time, allowing up to an additional 2 days of leave per month
• Derbyshire Rewards - Discounts from high street retailers and more
• Generous annual leave and flexi time scheme
• Travel expenses
• Discounts on leisure centre memberships
• Free car parking at most sites
• In-house counselling service
• Occupational Health service
• Access to sessions with a trained physiotherapist
• Cycle to work scheme

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Due to this post having access to children and/or vulnerable adults, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post, as all cases are judged individually according to the nature of the role and information provided.