We have an opportunity for 2 full time (37 hours per week) experienced social workers to join our Kinship Care team. We welcome applications from qualified, experienced, positive and forward‑thinking Social Workers wishing to join us here in Southampton. We have some exciting things happening to better support our children and families.
About the team
You will join an energetic and dynamic team striving to keep children within their Kinship network. The team consists of Social Workers and Family Practitioners who take on various roles within the Safeguarding Service, covering a vast range of services. We carry out assessments in both Public and Private law for court in respect of Special Guardianship and other permanence orders and link with almost every aspect of Children’s Services, from finding and linking extended family support to carrying out Family Group Conferences and providing post‑Special Guardianship support. We have lead responsibility for Private Fostering and Stepparent Adoption as well as fostering assessments for Kinship carers. We are committed to continue providing the best service we can for our children and families. In Southampton, we have received a ‘Good’ outcome from Ofsted in our most recent inspection with a grading of ‘Outstanding’ in respect of leadership and management. We recognise that for workers to be at their best, they need the right support from their leaders in learning opportunities, consistent meaningful supervision, and a positive work environment. We promote relational practice and believe that positive and open relationships with each other, our colleague agencies and with families are essential to helping create change and support families.
About the role
You will be based in a supportive and dynamic team, working in a challenging, fast‑paced environment. You will be responsible for:
* Carrying out assessments for potential Kinship carers, whether that be fostering, permanence, private fostering or stepparent adoption.
* Learning to complete Special Guardianship Needs Assessments.
* Gaining a good understanding of the Adoption Special Guardianship Support fund.
* Learning how to access therapeutic interventions for young people post Special Guardianship.
As part of this vital role, you may be required to give evidence in court and will work closely with our colleagues in the children's social work teams to ensure the best possible outcomes for children. You will maintain close links with area teams such as Family Help, Family Safeguarding, Pathways Through Care and Fostering Service, and participate in reflective discussions with other teams to consider creative ways of engaging families.
Qualifications
* Social Work Degree or DIPSW with over 2 years’ experience.
* Qualified social workers registered with Social Work England or proof of registration application.
* Working knowledge of the Children Act 1989.
* Comprehensive working knowledge of relevant legislation and procedures in the areas of Private Fostering, Special Guardianship and Looked‑after Children.
Salary
The salary band for this role is £41,771 – £46,141. The starting salary is £41,771 with annual progression through the salary bands.
Benefits
* Excellent local government pension with 16.8% employer contribution.
* Death in service benefit of 3× salary and optional salary sacrifice shared‑cost AVC (additional voluntary contribution).
* Generous holiday 25–31 days, based on role and service.
* Flexible working options (role‑dependent).
* Family‑friendly policies – maternity, paternity, adoption, shared/unpaid parental leave, time off for dependants.
* Training and development, including coaching and mentoring.
* Health and wellbeing support – Employee Assistance Programme, Menopause Pledge, Mental Health First Aiders and access to a variety of staff networks.
* Veteran‑friendly employer with the Armed Forces Covenant.
* Retail discounts and savings through the Southampton City Council benefits platform.
* Discounted memberships at local sports and fitness centres.
* Sustainable travel benefits – low‑emission car scheme, cycle‑to‑work, season ticket loans.
* Employee volunteering scheme with 2 paid days leave to volunteer.
For further information on our benefits package please visit: Employee benefits (southampton.gov.uk).
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