Join Gateshead’s Children’s Social Care Team as a Children’s Senior Social Worker
Are you a passionate and experienced Children’s Senior Social Worker looking to make a real difference in children’s lives? Gateshead Council is seeking dedicated professionals like you to join our dynamic Children’s Social Care team on a fixed-term contract. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a 'Good'-rated Ofsted service (2024), committed to innovative, holistic, and child-centred support for vulnerable children and families.
About the Role – Children’s Senior Social Worker
As a Children’s Senior Social Worker, you will play a vital role in assessing and intervening with children and families, ensuring they receive the right support at the crucial moments. Working within the Assessment and Intervention Team, you will manage complex cases from initial contact through to case closure, safeguarding children, and supporting legal decisions when appropriate. Your expertise will help promote safe, stable, and nurturing environments for children and young people.
Candidate Responsibilities – Children’s Senior Social Worker
* Conduct comprehensive assessments of children and families to develop tailored intervention plans
* Deliver effective interventions, working closely with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure positive outcomes
* Manage a diverse caseload involving child protection, Looked After Children, and legal proceedings
* Use systemic and strength-based approaches to promote child welfare and safety
* Maintain accurate, timely case records and documentation in line with statutory requirements
* Engage confidently with children, families, and external agencies to facilitate best outcomes
* Respond proactively to risk, separation, and loss issues, always prioritizing the child’s voice and best interests
* Remain compliant with Social Work England standards and relevant legislation
Benefits of Being a Children’s Senior Social Worker
* Competitive pay rate – 24.95 PAYE exclusive of holiday pay or 31.74 LTD inclusive of holiday pay
* Contract length: 9 months, with potential for extension or permanency consideration
* Supportive management team invested in your professional development
* Opportunity to work within an innovative, ambitious council committed to excellence in social care
* Access to ongoing training and professional development opportunities
* Flexible working arrangements to support your work-life balance
* Access to overtime or additional shifts (where applicable)
What We’re Looking For – Children’s Senior Social Worker
* Significant experience in statutory childcare social work within multi-disciplinary teams
* Strong skills in planning, delivering interventions, and managing complex caseloads
* In-depth knowledge of child development, social work legislation, and systemic approaches
* Confidence in risk management, decision-making, and working with vulnerable children and families
* Registered with Social Work England and hold a recognised social work qualification
* Access to a car or mobility support
How to Apply
To become part of Gateshead’s Children’s Social Care team as a Children’s Senior Social Worker, please contact Delanie.heyes@servicecare.org.uk or call 01772 208964. Send your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience. We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming a dedicated professional to deliver impactful social work.
Join us today and contribute to a brighter future for children and families in Gateshead!