Job description
2 x Full Time and 1 x Part time, Permanent
Please note, you require a social work qualification to apply for this role.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for experienced Social Workers to join the Children in Care Teams in the Through Care Service.
The Through Care Service supports children and young people aged 0-25 and their families, through their journey in care and as care leavers. We are a service of 11 teams, three have a focus on care leavers, the remainder on children in care, which includes two specialist teams for children aged 16 and 17 and for children arriving unaccompanied in the UK. The children in care teams have a team manager, up to six social workers, two family support workers and a children's social care assistant who provides administration to the teams.
We are based at B Bond, Bristol, in an open plan office overlooking the river and Ashton Court. We have high aspirations for our children and young people and are committed to providing services to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Bristol has recently increased social workers pay.
Last year we had an Ofsted inspection and received GOOD for both our children in care and our care leaver services. A quote from the report:
Children’s social workers visit them on a regular basis. They make determined efforts to get to know children. Social workers take time to understand children’s wishes and feelings. They are there when children need them most. They show dedication, care, and affection during times of upset and distress. For example, social workers have sensitively supported children to attend the funerals of close family members.
You will work with around 18 children in a co-productive approach with the children, professionals, families, and carers to support them to have the best opportunities.
You will keep up to date records which will help your children understand their journey into and through care.
You will ensure that they have the networks to support them during childhood and into adulthood and write care and pathway plans that are aspirational and meet need in a timely way.
You will work with children who are being cared for in foster homes (including kinship), children’s homes and children in semi-independent accommodation (children live in and around Bristol, but also further afield).
The work can be reactive and fast paced and you will need to be trauma informed and creative in response.
The role is diverse, and you will need the ability to work on your own, support the multi-agency network to hold risk, chair meetings relating to your children and have the skills to challenge constructively.
We will support you through the career progression pathway and you will have opportunities to become involved in projects and areas of interest to support this.
In Through Care we recognise the importance of the child’s whole network in building security and safety. We believe coming into care is an extension of the network our children already have, and a large piece of our work is to support and maintain this.
We are creative in our approach to be certain we meet the needs of our children. Our practice is underpinned by signs of safety and we encourage a systemic and reflective approach.
‘You cannot underestimate how important you [social worker] are to a child in care and the difference you can really make’.
‘It is an absolute privilege to be involved in the life of a child a care and walk with them on their care journey’.
If you share this passion and commitment, we would love to hear from you.
Please note that this role is subject to an Enhanced DBS Check.
Why Bristol City Council?
At Bristol City Council, we go that extra mile for our people; we offer a work environment which is fast moving and supportive, giving you the chance to use your skills and develop new ones within a high-profile organisation.
Join us and you’ll receive an excellent rewards package including membership of the Local Government Pension scheme, and a generous annual leave allowance. In addition, you’ll be working in a supportive environment where you’ll have the chance to make Bristol a better place and contribute to its future.