Social Worker / Senior Practitioner - Children's Assessment Service (North)

Oxfordshire County Council; Banbury; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Banbury is seeking a dedicated Social Worker for the Children's Assessment Service. This role involves conducting assessments to support families at risk and ensuring that children receive appropriate care. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Social Work and be passionate about making a positive impact. Opportunities for professional development and a supportive team environment are offered.

Qualifications

• Passionate about making a difference in children's lives.
• Experience in child protection investigations.
• Free-thinking and innovative approach.

Responsibilities

• Conduct child and family assessments in partnership with families.
• Lead Section 47 child protection investigations.
• Collaborate with multi-agency partners.

Skills

Social work principles

Child and family assessments

Multi-agency collaboration

Education

Degree in Social Work

Job description

About Us

Together, we’re shaping children’s social care for the future. Every day, our colleagues are helping to transform the lives of the residents of Oxfordshire.

In our Early Help, Assessment and Prevention Directorate, we’re committed to delivering lasting change by helping the children, young people, and families of Oxfordshire to thrive. We value building relationships, empowering people, and building on strengths, which is reflected in our restorative, relational practice approach.

Every day presents new challenges, supported by your team, in an organization that is free-thinking, flexible, and fosters achievement of personal ambitions. We’re not afraid to do things differently, and our dynamic culture embraces new ideas and innovation.

We believe our differences make us stronger, and that diversity is the foundation for innovation. Here, you can create a unique career while contributing to the future of children’s social care.

We have been consistently rated as “good” by Ofsted and are committed to continuous improvement. Are you in?

About the Role

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children, young people, and families in need of help and protection? We offer exciting opportunities for Social Workers and Senior Practitioners within the Children's Assessment Service (North).

The Children’s Assessment Service provides an early response to support children and their families who may be in need or at risk of harm. Our workers support families at one of the earliest points of contact with Children's Services, conducting comprehensive child and family assessments in partnership with children and their families to ensure they receive the right help at the right time. We collaborate with multi-agency partners as part of Oxfordshire’s commitment to the Family Safeguarding Model.

The Children's Assessment Service is a fast-paced environment offering numerous professional development opportunities. In this role, you will participate in a duty rotation of social workers handling assessments as referred by our Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub. You will also lead Section 47 child protection investigations when necessary, with support from experienced managers. Your role is vital in ensuring children and families receive thoughtful, evidence-based assessments that identify needs and facilitate effective intervention plans.

About You

You are a free-thinking and brave professional, setting you apart. Supportive and energized, you challenge the norm if better solutions exist—exploring answers with courage. You embody our values: continuous learning, kindness and care, equality and integrity, responsibility, and innovation.

Most importantly, you are passionate about delivering outstanding public services, ensuring every moment is the best it can be for Oxfordshire residents.

A role in the Children’s Assessment Service is a key safeguarding position. Our Social Workers and Senior Practitioners are essential in providing a safe, respectful, and child-focused service to children and families.