Join Our Mockingbird Team - Make a Real Difference in Fostering.
Are you passionate about transforming the lives of children and young people? Do you thrive in a collaborative, supportive environment where innovation and community are at the heart of everything you do?
Devon County Council’s Fostering Service is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Supervising Social Worker (Liaison Worker) to join our pioneering Mockingbird Team. This is your opportunity to be part of a trailblazing model of foster care that builds strong, resilient networks, just like an extended family.
About the Mockingbird Family Model
The Mockingbird Family Model (MFM) is a revolutionary approach to foster care, creating a community of satellite foster homes supported by a central ‘hub’ home. This model strengthens relationships, improves outcomes, and provides sustainable support for carers and children alike.
What You’ll Be Doing
As a Supervising Social Worker (Liaison Worker), you will work across the network of the hub and satellite homes, building and maintaining positive connections. You’ll play a vital role in nurturing this network by:
1. Supporting foster carers through regular supervision and unannounced visits
2. Leading engaging monthly coffee mornings and family activities
3. Conducting high-quality annual reviews and assessments
4. Collaborating closely with childcare teams and professionals
5. Representing cases at fostering panels and key meetings
This role is part-time hours) and is based at Follaton House, Totnes.
About You
As an experienced Social Worker, you will be passionate about improving the lives of children and Young People in Devon. Using a restorative approach you will be able to demonstrate:
6. Experience in fostering, multi-agency work, and court environments
7. Successful management of complex situations
8. Strong communication, planning, and relationship-building skills
9. A creative, reflective mindset and a drive to innovate
10. Knowledge and understanding of the legislation, models, and theories relevant to children’s social work
11. Excellent recording and planning skills
12. A valid UK driving licence and access to a car (exceptions may apply)
What We Offer
We value your vital contribution and offer a range of benefits to support your wellbeing and career:
13. Generous annual leave + option to buy more
14. Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working
15. Free onsite parking
16. Local Government Pension Scheme
17. Discounts at 900+ retailers
18. Cycle to work & EV salary sacrifice schemes
19. Employee Assistance Programme & wellbeing services
Join Us
Be part of a team that’s reshaping foster care in Devon. For an informal chat, contact Fostering Service Manager Liz Clarke -
Apply early to avoid disappointment - interviews may be held throughout the campaign.
Please Note: At this time, we are only accepting applications from candidates who are currently residing in the UK and are unable to consider overseas applications.
Additional Information
20. Devon County Council values diversity and we welcome applicants who share our commitment to inclusion and equality. We are committed to providing an inclusive and safe environment. More information can be found on our
21. hybrid, part-time, condensed hours)
22. Please visit our page for more information
23. We’re committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment
24. This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English
25. Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the Applicant privacy notice
26. This role requires a DBS disclosure
REQ008329 - Children's Social Care