Social Worker - Children in Care

About the Role

Suffolk County Council is seeking an experienced and dedicated Social Worker to join our Children in Care and Leaving Care Team based in Lowestoft.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of children and young people, supporting them throughout their care journey and helping them successfully transition into adulthood.

Location: Riverside, 4 Canning Road, Lowestoft, NR32 0EQ
Rate: -39 per hour
Hours: 37 hours per week
Working Pattern: Hybrid working (minimum 3 days per week in the office)

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Children in Care and Leaving Care social work duties in line with statutory requirements and best practice.
• Complete and maintain Children in Care documentation, including pathway plans and associated reports.
• Conduct face-to-face visits with young people, carers, and relevant stakeholders.
• Support young people in preparing for adulthood, including referrals and planning for post-18 accommodation.
• Liaise effectively with education providers, partner agencies, and other professionals to achieve the best outcomes for young people.
• Undertake duty responsibilities as required by the service.
• Follow safeguarding policies and procedures, ensuring the welfare and safety of children and young people remains paramount.
• Prepare for and actively participate in regular supervision sessions.
• Balance office-based tasks with community-based visits and travel across the local area as required.

Skills/Experience

• Qualified Social Worker status and Social Work England registration.
• A strong understanding of Children in Care and Leaving Care legislation, policy, and practice.
• Experience of completing pathway plans and statutory documentation.
• Excellent communication and partnership-working skills.
• The ability to manage a varied caseload effectively and work independently.
• Sound safeguarding knowledge and decision-making skills.
• A commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people.

Additional Information

• Hybrid working arrangement with a requirement to attend the office at least 3 days per week.
• The role involves both office-based work and travel across the community to meet young people, carers, and partner agencies.

This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. As this role is eligible for an Enhanced DBS check, applicants are required to declare any cautions and convictions that are not protected under current filtering rules.

Join Suffolk County Council and help young people build brighter futures as they move towards independence.