The job itself
Are you a passionate and experienced social work leader ready to shape the future of childrens services? Do you thrive on driving excellence in practice, supporting professional development, and influencing strategic direction? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you to join our Childrens Services leadership team as Principal Social Worker.
About Us:
At the East Riding of Yorkshire Council we are committed to creating the conditions for excellent social work to flourish. As a GOOD rated authority by Ofsted, we place children and young people at the heart of everything we do. Our vision is to deliver high-quality, relational, and restorative practice that makes a real difference in the lives of children and families.
The Role:
As Principal Social Worker, you will be the professional lead for social work practice across Childrens Services. You will champion high standards, provide expert advice, and ensure that our workforce is supported, skilled, and confident in delivering excellent outcomes.
You will lead the implementation of our model of practice, drive quality assurance activity, and ensure that the voice of social workers is heard at all levels of the organisation. You will also strategically oversee the development and progression of students, newly qualified social workers, and experienced practitioners, ensuring a clear and supported career pathway.
This is a strategic leadership role with a strong focus on workforce development, recruitment and retention, and continuous improvement. You will work closely with senior leaders, managers, and multi-agency partners to embed best practice and deliver on our ambitions for children and families.
Key Responsibilities:
* Provide professional leadership and support to social workers across Childrens Services.
* Champion relational and restorative practice and strategically lead the implementation of our bespoke Model of Practice, Stronger Together Approach.
* Oversee the ASYE programme, student placements, and professional development pathways.
* Lead quality assurance activity, including audits, complex complaint investigations and practice reviews, to drive improvement.
* Support the recruitment and retention of a skilled, diverse, and resilient workforce.
* Represent the service at local, regional, and national forums, influencing policy and practice.
* Line manage key management roles within the service including Quality of Practice Team Manager and Social Work Academy Manager.
* Promote a culture of learning, reflection, and high-quality supervision.
What We Offer:
* A dynamic and supportive environment committed to professional growth and innovation.
* Opportunities to shape practice and influence strategic direction.
* A collaborative and values-driven leadership team.
* Competitive salary and benefits, including generous annual leave and pension scheme.
* A strong commitment to staff wellbeing and development.
* Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
* Car parking pass for Beverley
About You:
* You will be a qualified social worker registered with Social Work England.
* You will have substantial experience in childrens social care, including leadership roles.
* You will have an expert understanding of social work theory, legislation, and best practice.
* You will be an inspirational leader with excellent communication and strategic thinking skills.
* You will be committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of your work.
* You will have experience in workforce development, quality assurance, and service improvement.
If you are an ambitious and values-driven leader with a passion for improving outcomes for children and families, we would love to hear from you. Join us and be part of an organisation that values your expertise and invests in your future.
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