We are currently recruiting an experienced social worker to our Kinship Care team and inviting applications from qualified, experienced, positive and forward-thinking Social Workers wishing to join us here in Southampton. We have some exciting things happening to better support our children and families.
About the team:
You will join an energetic and dynamic team striving to keep children within their Kinship network. The team consists of Social Workers and Family Practitioners who take on various roles within the Safeguarding Service.
We cover a vast range of services including both Public and Private law assessments for court in respect of Special Guardianship.
Our service links in with almost every aspect of Children’s Services, whether that be finding and linking in extended family to support a young person, carrying out Family Group Conferences or providing post Special Guardianship assessments and support. We have lead responsibility for Private Fostering and Stepparent Adoption as well as fostering assessments for Kinship carers.
We are committed to continue providing the best service we can for our children and families. Here in Southampton, we have received a ‘Good’ outcome from Ofsted during our most recent inspection with a grading of ‘Outstanding’ in respect of leadership and management. We recognise that for workers to be at their best to support families, they need the right support from their leaders in learning opportunities, consistent meaningful supervision, and a positive work environment.
We promote relational practice and believe that positive and open relationships with each other, with our colleague agencies and with our families are essential to helping create change and supporting families.
About the role:
You will be based in a supportive and dynamic team, working in a challenging environment that is fast-paced. You will be responsible for carrying out assessments for potential Kinship carers, whether that be Fostering, Special Guardianship, Private Fostering or Stepparent adoption. You will learn to complete Special Guardianship Needs Assessments; gain a good understanding of the Adoption Special Guardianship Support fund and how to access therapeutic interventions for young people post Special Guardianship. You may be required to give evidence in Court. You will work closely with our colleagues in the children’s social work teams to ensure the best possible outcomes for children.
We maintain close links with our colleagues in the area teams such as our Family Help and Family Safeguarding teams as well as our Pathways through care and Fostering Service. We participate in reflecting discussions with other teams to consider creative ways of engaging with families.
Essential Requirements:
* Social Work Degree or DIPSW with over 2 years’ post-qualifying social experience
* Registered with SW England.
* Comprehensive working knowledge of relevant legislation and procedures in the areas of Private Fostering, Special Guardianship and Looked after Children.
What we can offer you:
Here at SCC we have a range of different perks and benefits, a few examples can be found below.
* A generous local government pension scheme.
* Flexible working (role dependant). Up to 13 days of Flexi Leave.
* Hybrid working arrangements (role dependant).
* 25 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays.
* Online Benefits – salary sacrifice schemes, benefits and discounts.
* Great local transport links.
* Employee assistance programme with access to our health wellbeing and support.
* Continued Learning Development opportunities such as our Systemic Practice Programme and internal training opportunities.
For further information on our benefits package please visit: Employee benefits (southampton.gov.uk)
Contact details for informal discussion:
For further information and details regarding the role, please contact Gayle Langhorn, Team Manager, gayle.langhorn@southampton.gov.uk or Daniel Clark, Service Manager, Daniel.clark@southampton.gov.uk.
Recruitment contact details:
Email: recruitment@southampton.gov.uk
Tel: 023 8083 4033
For more information about SCC please visit: Southampton City Council Follow us on social media for regular updates on our featured jobs and latest news.
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