Job Title
Newly Qualified Social Worker
Summary of Role
Provide a high‑quality, restorative focus social work service to children, families and carers in Leeds. You will work under the ASYE programme with protected caseload, training support, mentorship and a clear career pathway to further roles within the council.
Responsibilities
* Responsible for an allocated caseload under supervision, including assessment and appropriate management of risks; use supervision to reflect critically on practice and explore approaches.
* Consolidate, develop and demonstrate comprehensive understanding of social work theories, methods and evidence‑based practice.
* Carry a caseload and undertake assessment of service users and carer needs using a child‑focused approach in line with statutory procedures.
* Use a child‑focused approach to devise and implement service and support plans which correspond to assessed needs of service users, families and carers.
* Analyse information to support the ongoing needs of users, families and carers.
* Monitor and contribute to the review of plans in accordance with directorate procedures.
* Use safeguarding framework to investigate and manage risks where children have experienced or are likely to experience significant harm.
* Provide written and verbal reports which are concise, informative and suitable for legal contexts.
* Maintain and update case notes, records and prepare reports as required.
* Work directly with children and young people to ensure assessments and interventions are informed by their views.
* Use management information systems and keep them up‑to‑date, providing concise and accurate information while complying with data protection.
* Comply with relevant governance, policy and procedures.
* Develop and maintain effective working relationships with professionals within the council and partner agencies to ensure integrated care management and safeguarding of service users.
* Contribute to the promotion of improved outcomes for individuals, families, carers and communities, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
* Understand and apply all relevant practice standards, policies and procedures.
* Plan and negotiate appropriate services and interventions that meet the needs of service users within delegated responsibility levels.
* Identify and implement strategies for responding to concerns about practice or procedures, seeking guidance if required.
* Organise work activities, prioritise tasks and responsibilities to meet statutory legislation and service priorities.
* Work to and within the Professional Capabilities Framework and prescribed standards for service provision.
* Carry out the role of key worker for a suitable caseload for a newly qualified worker.
* Undertake assessment, planning and review of work concerning children in need, children subject to protection plans and looked‑after children.
* Work restoratively to develop and maintain effective relationships with children, young people, families and carers to achieve positive outcomes.
* Participate in arrangements to receive, screen and respond to service and referral requests.
* With supervision, help children and young people make informed decisions and express their needs during service planning.
* When necessary, work in the court arena with appropriate support to obtain and implement court orders.
* Assist in commissioning services and support for children, young people and families.
* Participate in workshops and consultations to develop practice and services.
* Undertake preventative work with families to safeguard children and reduce the need for them to be looked‑after in care.
* Work with relevant agencies, including convening and chairing meetings where appropriate.
* Promote the right to advocacy for all children and young people on your caseload and provide information on making complaints.
* Be available for young people to contact and respond to phone calls promptly and inform them of whom they can contact outside office hours.
* Flexible working arrangements, including evenings or weekends, may be required when completing ongoing casework or in emergency situations.
* Work collaboratively as part of a team in a health and social care setting, maintaining relationships with colleagues, elected members, service users, families, carers and other agencies.
* Improve own practice through observation, evaluation, discussion with colleagues and development programmes.
* Work collaboratively with colleagues, seeking advice when appropriate.
* The duties outlined are not an exhaustive list and may also comprise any other duties consistent with this post and the job evaluation outcome.
Qualifications
* Appropriate professional qualification (degree, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent).
* Registered with Social Work England upon commencement, with yearly renewal.
* Ability to work flexibly across different locations and areas.
* Proficient in planning, managing, prioritising and evaluating work with service users.
* Strong communication skills to share information accurately and concisely with partners, carers and colleagues.
* Effective engagement with individuals, families, carers and other agencies.
* Identify appropriate social work interventions to promote positive change.
* Devising and implementing service and support plans in a person‑centred manner.
* Assess needs of individuals and groups using a person‑centred approach.
* Maintain accurate records, assessments and follow policy and procedure.
* Use technology for evidence, record‑keeping and communication.
* Exercise judgement, assess risk and consult appropriately.
* Reflect critically on practice via supervision and explore different approaches.
* Prepare and author reports.
* Engage with children and young people, incorporating their views into assessments and interventions.
* Knowledge of appropriate social work theory, models and interventions.
* Knowledge of relevant legislation affecting diverse families.
* Basic awareness of IT systems, including Microsoft Office, Internet and email.
* Understanding of confidentiality, safeguarding and diversity issues.
* Experience with a child‑focused approach and advocacy.
* Creativity in problem solving and commitment to service improvement.
* Application of information‑gathering skills to make and contribute to assessments.
* Effective use of reflective practice techniques.
Essential Behavioural & Other Characteristics
* Understand and embrace Leeds City Council values, behaviours and codes of conduct.
* Commit to continuous improvement in all areas and the council’s health, wellbeing, inclusive growth and zero‑carbon ambitions.
* Observe council policies and procedures.
* Carry out all duties with regard to health, safety and wellbeing responsibilities.
* Participate actively in appraisal, training and development activities.
* Adaptability to change and support other services as required.
* Promote equality, diversity and inclusion, challenging any incidents of racism, bullying, harassment or abuse.
* Work within the council’s flexibility protocol and respected parameters.
Desirable Requirements
* Possession of a valid full driving licence.
Benefits
* Competitive salary and annual leave entitlement plus statutory holidays.
* Membership of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund with generous employer contributions.
* Flexible and hybrid working arrangements subject to service requirements.
* Clear career pathway and continued professional development opportunities.
* Essential car user allowance and car loan scheme.
* Access to deals and discounts, including eligibility for a blue light card (where applicable).
* Range of staff benefits to support wellbeing and financial wellbeing.
Right To Work & Background Checks
Candidates must be able to demonstrate right to work in the UK. A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required as a pre‑employment condition.
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