About Us
North Somerset Council is committed to providing high-quality services to our community. We are committed to creating a fair, green, and more inclusive environment for all our residents. Join us and contribute to making a positive impact on our community.
The Role
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Social Worker to join our Children’s Services –Initial Directions Team.
About the Role
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families? We are looking for a dedicated and skilledChildren’s Assessment Social Workerto join our dynamic and supportive Initial Directions Team. This is a vital front-line role where you will be the first point of contact for children and families in need of support and protection.
As part of our Children’s Services, you will carry out statutory assessments under the Children Act 1989, including Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries. You will work closely with families, schools, health professionals, and other agencies to assess risk, identify needs, and develop robust plans that promote the safety and well-being of children.
Key Responsibilities
* Undertake timely and high-quality assessments of children and families.
* Make evidence-based decisions to safeguard children and promote positive outcomes.
* Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners to ensure coordinated support.
* Prepare clear, concise reports for child protection conferences, legal proceedings, and reviews.
* Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records using electronic systems.
* Participate in regular supervision and contribute to team development.
About You
We are seeking a qualified and registered social worker with experience in statutory children’s services. You will have a sound understanding of child development, safeguarding legislation, and assessment frameworks. You’ll be confident in managing risk, making decisions under pressure, and building effective relationships with children and families.
Essential Criteria
* Social Work qualification (Degree or Diploma)
* Registration with Social Work England
* Experience in child protection and statutory assessments
* Strong communication, analytical, and organisational skills
* Ability to work flexibly and manage competing priorities
Desirable Criteria
* Experience in court work and report writing
* Familiarity with Signs of Safety or similar strengths-based approaches
* Knowledge of local authority procedures and systems
This position is exempt under the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions) Order 1975 and is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Work Style
At North Somerset Council, we offer a hybrid working environment based on four distinct work styles. Depending on the role and personal circumstances, you will fall into one of these categories. However, please note that during the induction period, it may be necessary to spend more time in the office to support your learning and development. We are flexible and open to discussions about your preferred working style, and if you wish to be in the office more frequently, this can be negotiated.
This role falls into the category of which means you can expect to work in the following way:
2-3 days in the office
* Works both from home and the office, depending on the task at hand.
* Training is provided to help balance work-life and manage time effectively, with an emphasis on communication for team touchpoints and planning in-office days for collaboration.
What We Offer
At North Somerset Council, we value our employees and provide a supportive and inclusive work environment. We offer:
* Competitive salary and benefits
* Flexible working arrangements
* Local Government Pension
* Opportunities for professional development
* Inclusive Staff groups including Carers, Disabled, LGBTQ+, REACH (Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage), and Young Staff Forums
* Opportunity to purchase up to an additional 10 days annual leave each year
* Dedicated in house Wellbeing Team
* Salary sacrifice Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes
Further details of our excellent rewards package can be found in our Benefits booklet.
How to Apply
If you share ourvision and valuesand are ready to make an impact to North Somerset, please select the apply online button below. If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please submit your application by 11.59pm on the application closing date. When completing our online application form, please detail how you meet the essential criteria for the role.
Contact Information
For further information about the role, please contact Lisa Hollingdale, Development Lead Front Door and Initial Directions
Tel: 07353131232
E-Mail: lisa.hollingdale@n-somerset.gov.uk.
Important Information
As a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the job role.
Interview Date: [To be advised].
Please note: We are currently only able to accept applications from candidates who have full permission to work in the UK and are unable to provide Sponsorship for this role.
Equal Opportunities
At North Somerset Council we want all our employees to feel valued and appreciated. We aim to ensure equality of opportunity and prevent discrimination irrespective of your sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or belief, race, age, disability, including neurodiversity, if you are married or in a civil partnership or are pregnant or currently on maternity leave. We strive to create a workplace that reflects the communities we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
We reserve the right to close this advertisement early or extend the closing date depending on the number of applications received.
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