Senior Social Worker – Assessment Team London Borough of Merton Pay Rate: £39.04 per hour Hours: 35 hours per week Contract: Locum Office Requirement: 3 days per week About the Role Merton Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Assessment Team on a locum basis. You’ll take a lead role in delivering timely, high-quality assessments for children and families, ensuring robust decision-making and a strong safeguarding focus. This is a frontline role where you will handle complex assessments, support social workers within the team, and contribute to a consistent, child-centred practice approach across the service. Key Responsibilities Complete high-quality Child & Family Assessments within statutory timeframes. Lead on complex safeguarding cases, including S47 enquiries. Provide professional oversight, guidance, and mentoring for social workers. Prepare analytical, evidence-based reports for panels, court, and senior managers. Undertake direct work with children and families to ensure their voices are central to planning. Work collaboratively with partner agencies to support safety, stability, and positive outcomes. Support the team manager in maintaining a strong practice culture. Practice Model Used by Merton Merton operates a Strengths-Based, Relationship-Focused Practice Model, emphasising collaborative, restorative work with families. The model prioritises: building trust with children and carers empowering families to create sustainable change reflective, analytical practice multi-agency partnership working This approach underpins all assessment and safeguarding decisions across the borough. Why Merton Is a Great Place to Live and Work Merton is one of Southwest London’s most sought-after boroughs — a perfect blend of city convenience and neighbourhood charm. It offers: Excellent transport links via the Northern Line, District Line, Thameslink, and national rail. Green, peaceful areas such as Wimbledon Common and Morden Hall Park. A strong sense of community and family-friendly environment. A stable, well-managed Children’s Services department with supportive leadership. Great local amenities, restaurants, and vibrant areas like Wimbledon town centre. Whether you’re commuting in or living locally, Merton provides a safe, welcoming, and well-connected base for social work practice