Social Worker - Children in Care, Harlow (Permanent Role) Salary: £37,185 - £50,081 per annum Contract: Permanent, Full Time Location: Harlow Closing Date: 8th October 2025 Are you ready to join a dynamic Children in Care team where your wellbeing, growth, and creativity are valued as much as the young lives you support? Essex County Council is offering a permanent opportunity for an experienced Social Worker to join our West Essex service. Why Join Us? 9-day fortnight for full-time frontline Social Workers Supportive leadership with regular supervision and ad-hoc team support Systemic, strengths-based and trauma-informed practice at the heart of everything we do Outstanding training through Essex Social Care Academy (ESCA) Innovative environment committed to wellbeing, flexibility, and professional development About the Role: You will work with children and young people up to 18 years old, whether in foster care, residential placements, or preparing for permanency. Key duties include: Preparing court reports, care planning, and supporting adoption where required Developing permanency plans, including SGO and adoption Visiting children in placement and ensuring their voices are heard Undertaking life-story work to help young people understand their journey Supporting family reunification where possible What We're Looking For: Qualified Social Worker (CQSW, CSS, DipSW, or Degree) registered with Social Work England Experience in court work and complex safeguarding Strong communication, analytical and organisational skills Proficiency in case recording and IT systems Flexibility to meet the needs of children, including some evenings/weekends Full driving licence and access to transport Why Essex? As one of the UK's most dynamic local authorities, Essex offers an innovative working culture, strong career pathways, and a commitment to wellbeing and flexible working. Join us to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children in care. For more information on this role or for an informal discussion about locum Social Work opportunities across England and Wales please contact Gemma at Caritas Recruitment - Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy