Social Worker (Fostering) (2 Posts)

East Midlands Councils/East Midlands Jobs; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Derbyshire is seeking a Fostering Supervising Social Worker to join their team. The role involves supervising and supporting Foster Carers to ensure positive outcomes for children and families. Ideal candidates will be qualified Social Workers with strong assessment and communication skills. This position offers training opportunities and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Local Government Pension Scheme

Flexi time

Access to training

Career progression opportunities

Discounts on leisure centre memberships

Free car parking

Qualifications

• Experience of supporting Foster Carers is desirable but not essential.
• Understanding of national/local issues facing Foster Carers is important.
• Must be able to provide evidence of analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and support approved Foster Carers.
• Collaborate with children’s Social Workers and professionals.
• Complete annual Foster Carer reviews and attend Foster Panel.

Skills

Strong assessment skills

Excellent communication skills

Ability to support Foster Carers

Education

Qualified Social Worker

Job description

Closing date: 09 November 2025

Overview

Fostering Supervising Social Worker (2 Posts)

Make a real positive difference in the lives of children and families – Apply to become a Fostering Social Worker in Derbyshire!

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.

This position will be based in the South of Derbyshire, is to meet the needs of the service in the South of Derbyshire and will be based at Swadlincote. 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

Benefits

• 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

Make a real positive difference in the lives of children and families – join Derbyshire County Council today!