The Residential Care Social Workers will be key members of the multi-disciplinary team, responsible for ensuring the well-being, safety, and rights of the young people in the residential setting are upheld. This role involves providing professional social work support to young people and their families, working collaboratively with staff and external agencies to achieve positive outcomes. The post holders will champion a trauma-informed approach, recognising that the young people often have complex needs arising from previous trauma and neurodevelopmental conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
This role requires post holders to work flexible on a 5 over 7 rota which will include a combination of shift patterns including day shifts, back shifts and weekend and public holiday working as required to meet the needs of the service.
Salary will be dependant on qualifications, skills and experience.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
* Assessment and Care Planning: Conduct comprehensive social work assessments for young people, considering their personal history, family circumstances, and future needs. Contribute to the development, implementation, and review of multi-agency care plans, ensuring they are person-centred and reflective of the young person's voice.
* Safeguarding and Protection: Act as a designated professional for safeguarding, ensuring all child protection concerns are managed in line with national legislation and local authority procedures. Attend and contribute to Child Protection Case Conferences, Children's Hearings, and other statutory meetings. Liaise effectively with local authorities and other statutory bodies to ensure the young people's rights and best interests are protected.
* Liaison and Advocacy: Maintain strong relationships with young people, their families, and carers, providing guidance and support. Collaborate with a range of professionals, including care staff, nurses, therapists, and education staff, to ensure a holistic approach to care. Act as an advocate for the young people, representing their views and ensuring their needs are met within the wider community.
* Record Keeping and Administration: Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date case notes and reports in line with professional standards and organisational policy. Produce high-quality reports for statutory reviews, hearings, and other official purposes.
Key Benefits of the Role
This is a unique opportunity to work in a setting where the focus is on providing high-quality, in-depth support. The caseloads are significantly reduced compared to local authority settings, allowing post holders to develop meaningful relationships with the young people and their families. This enables a more intensive and holistic approach to care, where you can see the direct, positive impact of your social work practice on the young people's outcomes.
Person Specification
* Qualifications and Experience: A degree in Social Work or an equivalent qualification recognised by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC). A valid SSSC registration or be in the process of applying. Demonstrable experience in child protection and/or working with vulnerable young people with complex needs.
* Skills and Competencies: Knowledge of relevant Scottish social work legislation, policies, and procedures, including the Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and report writing skills. Ability to work autonomously, manage a complex caseload, and prioritise effectively. A commitment to collaborative, multi-disciplinary working.
* Personal Attributes: A caring, empathetic, and resilient approach. Patience and a non-judgemental attitude. A proactive and solution-focused approach to challenges. Commitment to continuous professional development and reflective practice.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £40,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Additional leave
* Bereavement leave
* Canteen
* Casual dress
* Company pension
* Cycle to work scheme
* Discounted or free food
* Enhanced maternity leave
* Enhanced paternity leave
* Free parking
* Health & wellbeing programme
* On-site gym
* On-site parking
* Sick pay
* Transport links
Experience:
* Social work: 1 year (required)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person