Qualified Social Worker - CAST (Children's Assessment and Safeguarding Team) - Basingstoke
Location: Basingstoke
Job Type: Locum / Full-Time (flexible or condensed hours available)
Category: Social & Healthcare Qualified
Pay Rate: £29.49 per hour
We are looking to recruit a Qualified Social Worker to join the Children's Assessment and Safeguarding Team (CAST) in Basingstoke. This is a fantastic locum opportunity within a supportive, well‑structured district.
Why Join This Team?
You will benefit from:
* Strong, experienced management providing clear guidance and regular supervision
* A modern office environment
* Full support for locum workers, equivalent to permanent staff
* Free internal CPD opportunities
* Dedicated administrative support to help with day‑to‑day tasks
* Manageable caseloads averaging 25 families
We are looking for someone confident in managing complex cases and committed to achieving the best outcomes for children and families.
Key Responsibilities
* Complete full assessments of risk, protection, and social care needs using professional skills, knowledge, and communication abilities.
* Work in partnership with other agencies and carry out joint assessments where needed.
* Arrange, provide, or commission appropriate services within legislation and departmental guidelines.
* Take action to safeguard vulnerable children and families in line with legal requirements.
* Manage a defined caseload following statutory procedures and good practice standards.
* Monitor and review care plans to ensure they continue to meet identified needs and goals.
* Keep accurate and timely case records using paper and digital systems.
* Produce clear, concise reports to support case management and decision‑making.
* Provide up‑to‑date advice on benefits, fees, and allowances to help families gain support.
Requirements
* A recognised social work qualification (e.g., Social Work Degree, CQSW, DipSW)
* HCPC registration
* Strong communication and negotiation skills
* Clear, concise report‑writing ability
* Ability to assess risk, analyse information, and solve problems
* Understanding of equality, dignity, empowerment, and safeguarding principles
* Experience working with children and families in a social work setting
* Knowledge of child protection legislation and substitute care
* Understanding of confidentiality, data protection, and accurate recording
* Ability to manage workload, time, and competing demands
* Ability to meet the travel requirements of the role
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