Job Description
3 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• The Fostering Social Worker (Kinship Assessment) will join Dorset Council’s Children’s Services team, working within a structured and supportive team to deliver assessments and post-approval support for foster carers, kinship carers, and supported lodgings providers.
• The role involves conducting assessments under statutory regulations, supporting the implementation of care plans, and contributing to the delivery of high-quality, child-focused services.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Conduct kinship, mainstream fostering, and special guardianship assessments, including Reg 24 assessments.
• Undertake supported lodgings assessments and provide ongoing support to carers.
• Deliver post-approval support and ensure compliance with statutory frameworks.
• Work within the duty rota, responding to allocated cases efficiently and effectively.
• Apply relevant legislation and guidance, including the Children Act 1989, Fostering Regulations 2011, Care Planning Regulations 2010, and National Minimum Standards.
• Maintain accurate case records, reports, and documentation.
• Work collaboratively with children, families, carers, and multi-agency partners.
• Apply evidence-based interventions and theoretical frameworks in practice.
• Contribute to team development and participate in regular supervision.
Skills/Experience:
• Minimum of 3 years’ post-qualification experience within an English Local Authority.
• Knowledge and experience of fostering, kinship assessments, and child permanency planning.
• Strong understanding of relevant legislation, statutory guidance, and care planning frameworks.
• Ability to apply psychological and developmental theories in practice.
• Experience delivering assessments, reports, and post-approval support.
• Ability to work independently and manage a varied caseload.
• Access to a vehicle and willingness to travel.
Additional Information:
• The post offers flexible working hours, hybrid/remote working, and participation in the team duty rota.
• Social Work degree or equivalent and Social Work England (HCPC) registration.
• Enhanced DBS clearance and right to work in the UK.
• Flexible working and hybrid/remote working available.
• £500 welcome bonus (after 12 weeks, T&Cs apply).
Requirements
• Minimum of 3 years’ post-qualification experience within an English Local Authority. • Knowledge and experience of fostering, kinship assessments, and child permanency planning. • Strong understanding of relevant legislation, statutory guidance, and care planning frameworks. • Ability to apply psychological and developmental theories in practice. • Experience delivering assessments, reports, and post-approval support. • Ability to work independently and manage a varied caseload. • Access to a vehicle and willingness to travel.