79 79 Jobs County Durham

Social Worker – Children’s Services

Location: UK Local Authority (Children’s Services)

Contract Type: Locum / Temporary

Duration: 3 months

Salary: £negotiable

Start Date: ASAP

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Children’s Social Worker to join a busy and supportive Children’s Services team on a 3-month interim basis. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled practitioner to make a real difference in the lives of children, young people, and families by providing effective, child-centred social work support and intervention.

As a Social Worker, you will manage a diverse caseload and work with families to assess need, reduce risk, and improve outcomes. You’ll play a key role in safeguarding children, promoting their welfare, and ensuring that they are given the best possible opportunities to thrive in a safe and supportive environment.

Main Responsibilities

 
• Undertake high-quality assessments of children and families in line with statutory duties and local procedures.
   

• Develop and implement Child in Need, Child Protection, and Care Plans that reflect the voice and needs of the child.
   

• Work collaboratively with families and partner agencies to achieve positive, sustainable outcomes.
   

• Prepare clear, analytical, and evidence-based reports for meetings, reviews, and court proceedings where required.
   

• Ensure timely and proportionate responses to identified risks and needs.
   

• Maintain accurate and comprehensive case records in line with professional and local authority standards.
   

• Contribute to reflective supervision and participate in continuous professional development.
   

• Work flexibly to meet the demands of the service, maintaining a child-focused approach at all times.

Requirements

 
• Essential qualification: Degree in Social Work (DipSW, CQSW, CSS, or equivalent).
   

• Registration: Registered with Social Work England.
   

• Significant post-qualifying experience in children’s social care, including safeguarding, assessment, and care planning.
   

• Excellent knowledge of child protection legislation, statutory frameworks, and social work best practice.
   

• Strong communication, assessment, and decision-making skills.
   

• Ability to manage a varied caseload effectively and work collaboratively within a multi-agency environment.
   

• Commitment to trauma-informed, relationship-based, and strengths-focused practice.

Why Apply?

This 3-month contract offers a great opportunity to contribute your skills and experience to a well-supported local authority team while maintaining flexibility and variety in your work. You’ll be part of a professional environment where your expertise is valued, your development is supported, and your work makes a tangible difference to children and families.

Interested? Apply today to take on a rewarding short-term role as a Children’s Social Worker and help create safer, brighter futures for children and young people.