Team - Kinship Care
Base - Various - Exeter, Barnstaple, Totnes
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people? We’re seeking Assessing Social Workers with the dedication and skill to support and advocate for children and young people in Devon within our Kinship Assessment Service.
Working in one of our three regional teams - Exeter & East, North & Mid, or South - you’ll be responsible for assessing kinship carers, special guardians and connected carers, helping to secure the best possible outcomes for children and young people in our care.
As an Assessing Social Worker, you will be responsible for :
1. Preparing high-quality assessments for Court and Fostering Panels
2. Supporting carers through the temporary approval process offering regular supervision and support
3. Delivering robust assessments that inform permanent decisions for children
4. Advocating for children and young people, modelling high-standard social work practice
5. Championing restorative practice and foster a culture of collaboration, reflection, and learning
Our service plays a vital role in supporting Devon County as a corporate parent for children who cannot live with their birth families. This is a challenging and rewarding role within a vibrant service that places children and families at the centre of everything we do. You will be part of a team that values your expertise, supports your development, and empowers you to make a lasting impact.
Your skills and experience will include:
6. A social work qualification and registration with Social Work England
7. Satisfactory completion of your Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE)
8. Experience of working within social care, including working in a multi-agency and court environment, with knowledge of fostering regulations
9. A high-level of written and verbal communication skills*
10. The ability to build effective professional relationships with children, families, and other professionals
11. Knowledge and understanding of the legislation, models, and theories relevant to children’s social work
12. Exceptional recording and planning skills
13. A valid UK driving licence and access to a car*
Exceptions may apply under the Equality Act
Children's Social Care at Devon County Council
Devon County Council is currently on an ambitious journey of cultural change. We're continuing to embed and relational ways of working and we believe that for most, the family home is the best place for children to live and thrive.
There are many benefits to joining Devon County Council and in exchange for your dedication, skills and experience we can offer a number of employee benefits including:
14. Generous annual leave
15. Free onsite parking
16. Flexible working opportunities and promotion of a healthy work-life balance, including working from home where possible – Please visit for more information
17. Employee Assistance for the times you may need some support and a variety of employee well-being services
18. Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme
19. Discounts at over 900 national & local high street retailers through our benefits platform
20. Cycle to work scheme
21. Electric Vehicle salary sacrifice scheme