Job Introduction
Newly Qualified Social Worker (ASYE) – Location: Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole, Dorset – Salary: Competitive + Local Government Pension – Contract: Full-time & Part-Time, Permanent – Interview Date: 6th July 2026 – Start Date: 7th September 2026.
Starting salary for this role is £39,152 (pro rata for part-time colleagues). This role sits within a well defined pay band, offering clear progression as you grow your career at BCP. All new starters begin at the entry point of the band, ensuring fairness and consistency across the organisation. BCP supports you to grow and you can truly #BeTheDifference at BCP.
About the Role
We currently have three vacancies in the Assessment Team, Child in Care Team and Child, Health and Disability Team and welcome applications from final year social work students about to qualify, or those who have qualified within the last 2 years who have not yet completed their assessed year of employment (ASYE).
* As part of one of our four Assessment Teams, you’ll play a vital role in gaining a clear understanding of children’s circumstances and developing plans that make a meaningful difference. Complete single assessments within statutory timescales, alongside ongoing assessments from referral through to case closure.
* Facilitate family network meetings, bringing together support systems to promote positive change.
* Follow up assessments: cases may close, step down, or transfer to another team at an agreed point. Social workers are based within four pods, working to a four‑week turnaround aligned to statutory timescales (the 20‑day time limit on assessments).
* In the Child in Care Team, work alongside committed colleagues to ensure that every child receives the highest standard of care and support, partnering with carers, families and partner agencies to develop and review care plans.
* In the Child Health and Disability Team (CHAD), provide longer‑term support to children and families where there are significant needs and risks, using a restorative practice framework and a range of interventions to promote safety, reduce risk and improve outcomes.
* All teams work flexibly across the BCP area. You will also need to be able to travel across the BCP area.
What We’re Looking For
BCP Council are looking for dedicated and compassionate Newly Qualified Social Workers to join our ASYE programme in Children’s Services. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.
* Reflective, pro‑active, and resilient, with the desire to make a real difference and ensuring children and their voices are at the heart of everything you do.
* Graduates with experience of working with children, young people and families, ideally in a final statutory placement, who want to extend their knowledge and skills to meet the Practice Standards for Child and Family Social Workers.
* Available to start on 7th September 2026 and able to travel across the BCP area.
What We Offer
Our ASYE programme provides a year of support and learning designed to enable you to build the very best foundations for your future career in frontline social work with vulnerable children, young people and families.
* Comprehensive induction and mentoring from an allocated ASYE Assessor, an experienced social worker who will support your growth during the assessed year.
* Reduced caseload to reflect your level of learning.
* 12 protected study days over the course of the year.
* Monthly group learning and development days.
* Monthly reflective supervision (fortnightly for the first 6 weeks) in addition to management supervision.
* Co‑allocations with experienced practitioners and shadowing opportunities.
* 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays).
* Flexible working arrangements in refurbished offices.
* Employee Assistance Programme.
* Staff network groups.
Benefits
In addition to the benefits listed above, BCP Council offers a pay and reward package that includes competitive salary, pension contribution, and additional support services to support your wellbeing and career development.
Ready to Join Us
If you’re reflective, proactive, resilient, and passionate about putting children’s voices at the heart of everything you do, we’d love to hear from you. For an informal discussion contact Hayley Heasford, Senior Consultant Social Worker at hayley.heasford2@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.
Equal Opportunities and Other Information
This role is not eligible for any type of visa sponsorship; we can only consider applicants with an existing right to work in the UK. Applicants to this post will be required to complete the appropriate level of Disclosure & Barring Service Check. Please refer to the Role Profile for more details.
BCP Council is a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to providing a fully inclusive recruitment process, ensuring every candidate and colleague has the support and reasonable adjustments they need to thrive.
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