Social Worker - Fostering Team Wigan Council | Up to £35 per hour Are you an experienced and dedicated Social Worker with a passion for fostering and ensuring the best outcomes for children in care? Wigan Council is seeking a highly motivated individual to join our dynamic Fostering Team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in supporting our foster carers and the children and young people they care for. We are looking for someone with a strong understanding of the challenges and complexities faced by children in care, and a commitment to providing stable and nurturing environments. What you'll do: In this crucial role, you will be responsible for a varied and impactful caseload, including: * Working directly with Children in Care Social Workers, collaborating closely to ensure seamless transitions and effective care plans for children placed in foster care. * Utilising your experience in children in care to provide expert guidance and support to foster carers and young people. * Leading on care planning for children within foster placements, ensuring plans are child-centred, reviewed regularly, and meet their evolving needs. * Managing complex situations, including involvement in placement with parents assessments and support plans, where appropriate. * Developing and reviewing pathway plans for young people transitioning from care, ensuring they are well-prepared for independence and future success. * Providing specialist support to separated young people, understanding their unique needs and helping them navigate their journey. * Undertaking and supporting life story work, helping children and young people understand their past and build a sense of identity. * Maintaining accurate and comprehensive records using Liquid Logic, our electronic case management system. * Undertaking fostering assessments and reviews as required. * Providing ongoing supervision and support to approved foster carers. What we're looking for: * A recognised Social Work qualification (e.g., DipSW, CQSW, BA Hons Social Work, MA Social Work). * Current registration with Social Work England. * Significant experience working as a Social Worker within Children in Care services, or a Fostering Team. * Demonstrable experience in care planning, pathway planning, and undertaking life story work. * A strong understanding of the issues facing separated young people and how to support them. * Proficiency in using electronic case management systems, ideally Liquid Logic. * Excellent assessment, analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills. * The ability to work autonomously and as part of a team, managing a diverse caseload effectively. * A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. What we offer: * A competitive pay rate of up to £35 per hour. * The opportunity to work within a supportive and dedicated Fostering Team at Wigan Council. * A chance to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people in care. * Opportunities for continuous professional development and training. If you are a highly skilled and compassionate Social Worker with the experience and passion to excel in our Fostering Team, we encourage you to apply