Senior Social Worker - Family Reunification

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Advanced training opportunities

Meaningful role protecting children

Supportive team environment

Impactful work in Free State

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Social Worker to lead its Family Reunification program in Bloemfontein. You will manage a complex caseload, provide intensive therapeutic interventions, and coordinate with child protection, courts, and community partners to achieve safe reunification.

You will supervise junior staff, maintain confidential records, and travel within the Bloemfontein area as required. A SACSSP-registered BSW is required; a Master’s degree is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work and SACSSP registration; Master's degree an advantage.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-qualifying experience in social work, with child welfare experience.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of family dynamics related to reunification.
• Develop and implement individualized case plans for safe family reunification.
• Provide direct counseling and therapeutic support including parenting skills, trauma, and mental health.
• Facilitate supervised visitation and family therapy sessions.
• Collaborate with child protection services, foster care agencies, courts, and community organizations in Bloemfontein.
• Prepare detailed reports for court proceedings and case reviews.

Skills

Family therapy

Counseling techniques

Case management

Communication skills

Negotiation

Advocacy

Stakeholder collaboration

Education

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

Master's degree (advantage)

Tools

Electronic record-keeping systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an established organization dedicated to supporting families and children, is looking for a Senior Social Worker to lead their crucial Family Reunification program in Bloemfontein . This impactful role requires a seasoned professional committed to helping families overcome challenges and achieve sustainable reunification. You will manage a complex caseload, provide intensive therapeutic interventions, and coordinate with various stakeholders to facilitate positive outcomes. This position offers a blend of direct client engagement and remote administrative and coordination tasks, providing flexibility for dedicated professionals. You will be instrumental in fostering stronger family bonds and ensuring child welfare within the Free State province.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of family dynamics, strengths, and challenges related to reunification.
• Develop and implement individualized case plans aimed at achieving safe and successful family reunification.
• Provide direct counseling and therapeutic support to families, addressing issues such as parenting skills, substance abuse, domestic violence, and mental health.
• Facilitate supervised visitation sessions and family therapy, ensuring the safety and well-being of children.
• Collaborate closely with child protection services, foster care agencies, courts, and other relevant community organizations in Bloemfontein.
• Prepare detailed reports and documentation for court proceedings and case reviews, advocating for the best interests of the child.
• Provide guidance and support to junior social workers and case aides involved in the reunification process.
• Monitor family progress post-reunification, providing ongoing support to ensure stability.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records in compliance with agency policies and legal requirements.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Social Work (BSW) or equivalent, registered with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP). A Master's degree is an advantage.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-qualifying experience in social work, with significant experience in child welfare and family services.
• Demonstrated expertise in family therapy, counseling techniques, and case management.
• Strong understanding of child development, attachment theory, and the impact of trauma.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively with diverse populations and challenging family situations.
• Proficiency in electronic record-keeping systems.
• Ability to manage a demanding caseload and work both independently and collaboratively.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Bloemfontein area as required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development in family therapy and child welfare.
• A meaningful role focused on strengthening families and protecting children.
• Supportive team environment and collaborative working relationships.
• Chance to make a lasting positive impact within the Free State community.