About Company
Reading Borough Council is a vibrant and forward-thinking local authority committed to making Reading a great place to live, work, and visit. We are dedicated to providing high-quality services to our diverse community, focusing on improving outcomes for all residents. Our Children’s Services team is passionate about safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, ensuring they have the best start in life. We foster a supportive and collaborative environment, where continuous professional development is highly valued, and staff are empowered to make a real difference in the lives of families.
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Job Description
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Social Worker to join our dynamic Children’s Services team. This pivotal role involves working directly with children, young people, and their families who are experiencing significant challenges, ensuring their safety, well-being, and development. You will manage a varied caseload, conducting comprehensive assessments, developing and implementing care plans, and undertaking safeguarding investigations under Section 47. You will be instrumental in advocating for children’s needs, empowering families, and working collaboratively with a wide range of partner agencies, including schools, health services, and police, to provide integrated support. Our approach is child-centred, strengths-based, and focused on achieving positive, sustainable outcomes for families within the community. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a dedicated team committed to excellence in social work practice within a supportive local authority setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a complex and diverse caseload of children and families requiring support and intervention.
- Conduct thorough and timely assessments, including Child and Family Assessments and Section 47 enquiries, to identify needs and risks.
- Develop, implement, and review robust care plans, ensuring they are child-centred and outcome-focused.
- Undertake direct work with children and young people to understand their wishes and feelings and promote their participation.
- Prepare and present reports for statutory reviews, Child Protection Conferences, and court proceedings, when necessary.
- Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners to ensure a coordinated and effective response to safeguarding concerns.
- Provide expert advice and support to families, empowering them to make positive changes.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records, adhering to all statutory and local policies and procedures.
- Participate in regular supervision, training, and professional development activities.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of services within the Children's Services department.
Required Skills
- Professional qualification in Social Work (e.g., BA, MA, DipSW, CQSW).
- Current registration with Social Work England (SWE).
- Minimum of 2 years post-qualifying experience in Children's Social Care.
- In-depth knowledge of relevant children's legislation, including the Children Act 1989/2004.
- Proven ability to conduct high-quality assessments and formulate effective care plans.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
- Strong analytical and decision-making abilities, particularly in high-pressure situations.
- Commitment to anti-discriminatory practice and promoting diversity.
- Ability to work autonomously and as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in court work and preparing reports for legal proceedings.
- Post-qualifying awards or specialist training in areas such as attachment, trauma, or safeguarding.
- Familiarity with local authority IT systems for case management.
- Demonstrable experience in crisis intervention and risk management.
Perks & Benefits
- Generous Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Minimum of 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising with service.
- Comprehensive training and continuous professional development opportunities.
- Regular, high-quality supervision and peer support.
- Flexible working options (subject to service needs and agreement).
- Employee Assistance Programme offering free, confidential support.
- Access to a range of employee discounts and benefits.
- Cycle to Work scheme and public transport season ticket loans.
- Commitment to staff well-being and a positive work-life balance.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply directly through our online application portal. Please click on the application link below, which will direct you to our careers page where you can view the full job description and submit your CV and supporting statement. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description. We look forward to receiving your application.
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