Job Title: Senior Practitioner – 16+ UASC Service
Location: Medway
Rate: £42 per hour (Ltd)
Contract Type: Locum
Working Pattern: Full-time
About the Role:
We are seeking an experienced Senior Practitioner to join Medway’s 16+ Service. This role is specifically focused on supporting Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC) who are currently looked after by the local authority, as well as former UASC care leavers receiving Leaving Care support up to their 21st birthday.
This is a highly rewarding role for a practitioner who is passionate about working with vulnerable young people—particularly those who have experienced trauma, displacement, and face unique challenges related to immigration and cultural integration.
Key Responsibilities:
* Work directly with UASC and former UASC care leavers to ensure their safety, well-being, and successful transition into independence.
* Complete comprehensive assessments and pathway plans in accordance with statutory requirements.
* Provide support and advocacy around immigration processes, education, health, accommodation, and emotional well-being.
* Engage in multi-agency working, including liaison with the Home Office, legal representatives, health services, education providers, and specialist support agencies.
* Ensure all work is in line with the Children Act 1989, Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000, Immigration Asylum Act 1999, and other relevant legislation and guidance.
* Maintain accurate case records and prepare high-quality reports for reviews, court proceedings, or legal processes.
* Contribute to service development and best practice within the 16+ UASC team.
Essential Requirements:
* Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.
* Proven experience supporting UASC and/or former UASC care leavers.
* Sound understanding of asylum, immigration, and looked after children legislation and procedures.
* Experience working with adolescents, children in care, care leavers, and/or families with no recourse to public funds (NRPF).
* Knowledge of trauma-informed practice and cultural competence.
* Ability to build trust and communicate effectively with young people for whom English is not their first language.
* Strong assessment, planning, and written communication skills.
* Able to manage complex caseloads and contribute to team development as a senior practitioner.
Why Join Medway?
* Competitive pay rate of £42/hour (Ltd)
* Supportive management and specialist service structure
* Opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of vulnerable young people
* Dynamic team environment and professional development opportunities
Apply now if you are a skilled, compassionate, and knowledgeable practitioner ready to bring expertise and advocacy to this vital area of social work.
Email Delanie.heyes@servicecare.org.uk or call 01772 208964