Make a Difference Where It Matters Most – Children Looked After
We’re looking for an Experienced Social Worker who’s passionate about making a real difference to join our dedicated and supportive Children Looked After (CLA) Team covering South & West Devon.
At the heart of everything we do is a simple belief: home is where children thrive best. For many, that means staying connected to their families, communities and local support networks. Where long-term care is needed, we act early and decisively — securing stability and permanence from day one.
Our experienced CLA team champions restorative practice and strong relationship-based approaches, helping children build and sustain lifelong connections — strengthening not just their present, but their future.
As an Experienced Social Worker, you’ll be supported every step of the way by a practice-focused, knowledgeable and highly experienced management team, committed to helping you grow, develop and thrive in your role.
Leading by Example, You Will:
1. Model high standards of professional practice
2. Manage a varied caseload, focused on long-term positive change
3. Deliver high-quality assessments that shape children’s futures
4. Work collaboratively across agencies to achieve the best outcomes
This is your chance to be part of something meaningful — changing lives, building futures, and helping create brighter outcomes for Devon’s Children in Care.
About You
This is a fast-paced, high-impact role where your creativity, resilience and compassion will drive meaningful, lasting change.
You’ll bring:
5. A recognised Social Work qualification and SWE registration
6. Completion of your ASYE
7. Experience working in multi-agency and court settings
8. Strong communication and relationship-building skills
9. A sound understanding of children’s social work legislation and theory
10. A genuine commitment to putting children at the heart of everything you do
Ready to Make a Real Difference?
To find out more about working in our Children Looked After Team (South & West), or for an informal chat, please contact Hayley Mason, Team Manager
Closing date: 31 May 2026
We encourage early applications — this vacancy may close sooner if we receive a high volume of interest.
This role is currently eligible for a £2,000 retention payment per annum (pro rata, T&Cs apply).
We welcome applications from internationally trained professionals already based in the UK. We can offer sponsorship is available for the right candidates.
Working at Devon County Council
In return for the vital contribution you’ll make, we offer a fantastic range of benefits, including:
11. Generous annual leave, with the option to purchase more
12. Free onsite parking
13. Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support
14., including hybrid working
15. Local Government Pension Scheme
16. Discounts at 900+ retailers
17. Cycle to work scheme
18. Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
Additional Information
Devon County Council is committed to creating a. We welcome applications from individuals who share our commitment to tackling inequality and promoting inclusion.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff to share this commitment.
This role requires:
19. Confidence and fluency in spoken English
20. A suitable DBS disclosure
21. A Full UK driving Licence and access to a vehicle