Social Worker – Permanence Team – Dorset Council
£40.00 per hour
Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
Join a dedicated Permanence Team supporting children in long-term care planning
Excellent management support and positive team culture
Opportunity to work within a well-regarded local authority
Long-term stable contract available
We are currently recruiting for an experienced Social Worker to join the Permanence Team at Dorset Council. This is a fantastic opportunity for a committed practitioner who is passionate about achieving long-term stability and positive outcomes for children and young people.
The role will involve working with children subject to care proceedings, long-term care planning, and permanency arrangements including adoption, special guardianship, and long-term fostering. You will work closely with children, carers, families, and partner agencies to ensure timely and effective permanence planning.
About the Local Authority
Dorset Council is recognised for its supportive working environment, child-focused approach, and commitment to high-quality social work practice. The service promotes reflective supervision, manageable team structures, and flexible hybrid working to support staff wellbeing and professional development.
Key Responsibilities
Managing a caseload of children requiring permanence planning and long-term care arrangements
Undertaking assessments relating to adoption, special guardianship, and long-term fostering
Progressing care planning and permanence outcomes within statutory timescales
Preparing high-quality court reports, assessments, and care plans
Working directly with children and families to achieve positive long-term outcomes
Attending legal meetings, looked after children reviews, and multi-agency planning meetings
Building strong working relationships with carers, partner agencies, and internal services
Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case recordings in line with statutory requirements
Candidate Requirements
Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification
Registered with Social Work England
Previous experience within Permanence, Looked After Children, or Children in Care services
Strong knowledge of care planning, safeguarding, and court processes
Experience completing assessments and preparing court reports
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
Ability to work effectively within a busy frontline environment
Enhanced DBS preferred
Why Work With Us?
Competitive pay rate of £40.00 per hour
Hybrid working with 3 office days per week
Supportive leadership and collaborative team environment
Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
Access to additional local authority opportunities
Referral bonus scheme available
Opportunity to make a lasting impact on children’s lives through permanence planning
For more information or to apply, please contact:
Josh Dhumisani
📞 (phone number removed)