Overview
Job Title: Social Worker - Fostering
Specialism: Fostering
Location: Wigan, UK
Salary: £35.00 per hour
Contract: Ongoing (Full-Time or Part-Time)
Role Summary
Join the Wigan Fostering Team as a Social Worker, supporting children in foster care and their carers. This ongoing locum role offers an hourly rate of £35.00, with flexible full-time or part-time options to suit your lifestyle. Make a real difference in the lives of children and families.
Perks and Benefits
* Flexible Hours: Full-time or part-time work to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
* Continuous Learning: Access professional development and training opportunities to enhance your career.
* Supportive Environment: Work within a collaborative team dedicated to improving outcomes for children and families.
* Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals across multiple agencies, expanding your experience and professional network.
Key Responsibilities
* Assessment & Placement: Assess children requiring foster placements and contribute to care planning.
* Assess and support prospective and existing foster carers through home visits and supervision.
* Match children with suitable foster carers, considering needs, risks, and family dynamics.
* Monitor the welfare and safety of children in foster placements.
* Take safeguarding action in line with statutory guidance and local procedures.
* Participate in child protection processes when required.
* Case Management: Manage a caseload of fostered children and carers, maintain accurate records, reports, and care plans.
* Contribute to statutory visits, reviews, and legal planning meetings.
* Support & Guidance: Provide guidance, advice, and support to foster carers to promote positive outcomes.
* Facilitate training and development opportunities for foster carers as needed.
* Work closely with social workers, health services, schools, and other agencies to ensure holistic support.
* Attend fostering panels, review meetings, and multi-agency planning meetings.
Essential Qualifications & Requirements
* Degree or Diploma in Social Work (or equivalent recognised qualification).
* Registration with Social Work England.
* Experience in children's social care, particularly fostering, child protection, or looked-after children services.
* Knowledge of relevant legislation including the Children Act 1989 & 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children, and fostering regulations.
* Ability to manage complex cases and make sound professional decisions.
Skills & Attributes
* Excellent assessment, planning, and report-writing skills.
* Strong communication and relationship-building abilities with children, carers, and professionals.
* Emotional resilience to manage sensitive and challenging cases.
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
* Commitment to continuous professional development and reflective practice.
Living and Working in Wigan
Wigan offers a vibrant community, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful natural landscapes. Enjoy a supportive environment where your contribution truly matters, both professionally and personally.
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