Job summary
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children, young people, and families in need of help and protection? We have exciting Social Worker and Senior Practitioner opportunities within the Children's Assessment Service (North).
About the Role
The Children’s Assessment Service provides an early response to support children and their families who may be in need or at risk of harm. Our workers have the privilege of supporting families at one of the earliest points of contact with Children’s Services, completing comprehensive child and family assessments in partnership with children and their families, so we can ensure they receive the right help at the right time. We do this with the support of our multi‑agency partners, forming strong relationships as part of Oxfordshire’s commitment to the Family Safeguarding Model.
The Service is a fast‑paced environment providing a wealth of professional development opportunities. In this important role, you will be part of a duty rotation of social workers receiving assessments as they are referred by our Multi‑Agency Safeguarding Hub. You will also be responsible for leading Section 47 child protection investigations where necessary, all with the support of experienced managers. The role is critical in ensuring our children and families receive thoughtful, evidence‑based assessments that help them identify change and develop a well‑structured plan of intervention to support lasting change.
Responsibilities
• Part of a duty rotation of social workers receiving assessments referred by the Multi‑Agency Safeguarding Hub.
• Lead Section 47 child protection investigations where necessary.
• Conduct comprehensive child and family assessments in partnership with children and their families.
• Provide evidence‑based and child‑focused assessments that support families to make progress and where necessary, produce a plan of intervention.
• Work with multi‑agency partners to ensure children receive the right help at the right time.
• Embody the Service values: always learning, be kind and care, equality and integrity in all we do, taking responsibility and daring to do it differently.
About you
You are a free‑thinking and brave professional who does not accept the norm if it can be done better. You are supportive, energised and able to find answers through exploration and courage. You embody our values of learning, kindness, equality, integrity, responsibility and innovation. You are passionate about delivering standout public services for the children and families of Oxfordshire.
To apply
Qualifications: Qualified social worker with current Social Work England registration and completion of the ASYE (or equivalent).
Experience of working with children and their families in a statutory setting and possessing a good working knowledge of relevant services, safeguarding, legislation, guidance, policy and procedures.
A car owner/driver who can travel to visit children and families across the North of the county.
Commitment to delivering respectful, proportionate and evidence‑based child‑focused assessments that give children a voice in decisions that affect them.
References: Please refer to the attached full selection criteria. We look forward to learning about your relevant experience and achievements.
Rewards and Benefits
We offer a supportive and flexible working culture, generous holiday allowance (up to 32 days per year), Local Government Pension Scheme with up to 19.9% employer contribution, a range of retail discounts and family‑friendly policies such as carers leave and paid volunteering time.
* Welcome and Loyalty payment of £3,500.
* Relocation allowance of up to £8,000.
* Annual leave starting at 30 days per year (plus bank holidays).
* A comprehensive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
* Flexible working.
* Employee Assistance Programme with health and wellbeing support 24/7.
* Range of family‑friendly policies.
* Childcare vouchers, cycle to work scheme, electric car scheme, staff discounts including travel, holidays, insurance, food, health & leisure activities.
* Excellent learning and development opportunities.
Commitments
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We celebrate diversity and support staff across age, disability, gender identity, race, faith, sexuality, background and all on maternity or family leave.
Guaranteed Interview Schemes: Disability confident employer, care leavers with further education, apprenticeships and support for ex‑armed forces within three years of leaving.
Safeguarding: We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults, and all recruitment reflects this commitment.
Flexible Working: Open to flexi‑time, part‑time working, job sharing, nine‑day fortnights and annualised hours depending on the role and service.
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Recruitment Information
Person Specification – Essential and Desirable: Please refer to the job description above.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check: This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires disclosure for any previous convictions.
Certificate of Sponsorship: Applications from skilled worker sponsorship seekers are welcome. For further information, see the UK Visas and Immigration website and NHS Careers website (link text only).
UK Registration: Applicants must have current UK professional registration.
Employer Details
Oxfordshire County Council
Banbury, OX16 5AU
Website: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/
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