Main duties of the job
The Childrens Assessment Service provides an early response to support children and their families who may be in need or at risk of harm without our help. Our workers have the privilege of supporting families at one of the earliest points of contact with Children's Services, completing comprehensive child and family assessments in partnership with children and families, so we can ensure they receive the right help, at the right time. We do this with the support of our multi-agency partners with whom we have developed strong relationships as part of Oxfordshires commitment to the Family Safeguarding Model.
The Children's Assessment Service is a fast-paced environment providing a wealth of professional development opportunities. In this important role, you will be part of a duty rotation of social workers receiving assessments as they are referred by our Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub. You will also be responsible for leading Section 47 child protection investigations where they are necessary, all with the support of experienced managers. The role of a children's assessment Social Worker is critical in ensuring our children and families receive thoughtful, evidence-based assessments that help them identify and make changes, and where necessary have a well-developed further plan of intervention to support lasting changes.
About us
We are committed to delivering outstanding public services by building relationships, empowering people and working collaboratively with our multi-agency partners. We believe that together, our differences make us stronger and that diversity is the foundation for innovation. We offer a flexible working culture, exceptional learning and development opportunities and a strong focus on well-being and equality.
Job responsibilities
As a Social Worker or Senior Practitioner in the Childrens Assessment Service you will:
* Conduct child and family assessments in partnership with children and families.
* Lead Section 47 child protection investigations where required.
* Participate in a duty rotation receiving assessments referred by the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub.
* Produce evidence-based assessment and intervention plans.
* Collaborate with multi-agency partners to ensure high quality safeguarding and support for children and families.
About you
You are a qualified social worker registered with Social Work England, have completed the ASYE (or equivalent) and possess a good working knowledge of child safeguarding and relevant legislation, guidance, policy and procedures. You are a car owner/driver, able to travel to visit children and families across the North of Oxfordshire and are committed to delivering respectful, proportionate and evidence-based assessments that are child-focused.
Rewards and benefits
We offer flexible working hours, a generous holiday allowance that rises to 32 days per year, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme with employer contributions of up to 19.9%, a range of staff discounts, child care vouchers, cycle to work scheme, and excellent learning and development opportunities. In addition, welcome and loyalty payments, relocation allowances, comprehensive LGPS, employee assistance programme and family-friendly policies are part of the overall package.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Oxfordshire County Council has a diverse workforce and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. We are proud of our staff network groups, peer support, education and safe spaces for all. We guarantee interview for disabled applicants and for care leavers, after further education, and are committed to supporting veterans and other groups and to safeguarding children, young people and adults.
Person Specification
* Qualified social worker registered with Social Work England.
* Completed ASYE or equivalent.
* Experience working with children and families in a statutory setting.
* Good understanding of safeguarding, legislation, guidance, policy and procedures.
* Car ownership/driver’s licence and ability to travel across North Oxfordshire.
* Commitment to child-focused, respectful, proportionate and evidence-based assessments.
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