3 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• The Permanence Social Worker will join Dorset Council’s Permanence Team to support children who are looked after by the Local Authority with a Care Plan of adoption or long-term placement.
• The post-holder will work collaboratively with children, families, and carers to plan proactively for children’s futures, ensuring permanence and positive outcomes.
• This is a fast-paced role requiring experience with Children in Care (CIC) and court proceedings.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Undertake court proceedings and contribute to court reports, including Child Permanence Reports (CPRs).
• Work with looked after children, their families, and carers to achieve permanence.
• Apply a range of evidence-based interventions to support change and progress.
• Anticipate and respond appropriately to situations of conflict.
• Manage allocated workloads, prioritising tasks to meet statutory timescales.
• Work autonomously while seeking guidance as necessary.
• Collaborate with colleagues in Children in Care Services and external partner agencies.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation in line with statutory requirements.
Skills/Experience:
• Experience working with looked after children, adoption, or permanence planning.
• Experience of court work, including CPR writing and attending court hearings.
• Knowledge of evidence-based social work interventions and safeguarding practices.
• Strong organisational, time management, and prioritisation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience managing complex cases and responding to conflict appropriately.
Additional Information:
• Recognised Social Work qualification (degree/diploma) and Social Work England registration.
• Enhanced DBS clearance and right to work in the UK.
• Contract: 3 months, with options for full-time, part-time, or temp-to-perm.
• Hours: 38 per week, flexible where possible.
• This post involves working with vulnerable children and families, requiring travel and adherence to safeguarding policies.