3 months contract with local authority
We are seeking a dedicated individual to take on the role of Principal Social Worker within our Safeguarding and Care Service. As the Head of Practice, you will be responsible for providing strong leadership to social care practice, recruitment, and retention, while promoting the meaningful participation of children and families in the development of our service. You will play a pivotal role in supporting and leading excellent social work practice and practice excellence, ensuring that agreed service plans and performance targets are delivered. Additionally, you will be responsible for maintaining effective relationships with regulatory bodies and representing the organization in work with partner agencies.
Responsibilities:
* Provide strong, visible leadership to social care practice, recruitment, and retention
* Promote the meaningful participation of children and families in the development of the service
* Lead on the Quality Assurance Framework across Children Services
* Deliver training functions and "grow our own" programs through student placements, Newly Qualified programs, and Apprenticeships
* Provide professional advice and guidance to senior management teams and wider workforce
* Ensure the council is meeting its statutory and legal obligations relating to social care
* Lead the delivery of a consistent, up-to-date, and effective quality assurance strategy and framework
* Keep up to date with changes to national strategy, policy, and legislation
* Provide senior leadership and continuous professional development opportunities for the workforce
* Support effective recruitment and retention, including oversight of apprenticeship programs and post-qualifying development opportunities
* Act as the main conduit between service areas in the council and safeguarding boards
* Maintain an effective relationship with relevant regulatory bodies and represent the organization in work with partner agencies
Requirements
* A relevant social work qualification
* Registration with Social Work England
* Extensive experience in social care practice and leadership
* Strong understanding of national and local drivers around social work standards, policy, and statutory requirements
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
* Ability to provide professional advice and guidance to senior management teams and wider workforce
* Knowledge of relevant regulatory bodies and safeguarding boards
* Proven ability to represent the organization in work with partner agencies and regulatory bodies