Locum Safeguarding Qualified Social Worker

Social Worker (Children’s) – Cared For Children Team

Brief Job Overview

 
We are seeking a compassionate and experienced Children’s Social Worker to join the Cared For Children Team at Cheshire East Council. This rewarding role focuses on supporting children and young people in care to achieve permanence, fulfil their aspirations, and prepare for successful transitions into adulthood.  

You will play a vital role in helping children feel secure, valued, and supported, ensuring that their care plans and statutory responsibilities are delivered to a high standard. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated social worker who is passionate about making a real difference in the lives of children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Work directly with children and young people in care to ensure their needs are met and their voices are heard in all decision-making.
• Develop and implement care plans that promote permanence, stability, and positive outcomes for children.
• Undertake regular statutory visits, assessments, and reviews in line with legislative requirements and local authority procedures.
• Support children to achieve their aspirations and develop independent living skills as they transition to adulthood.
• Contribute to care proceedings, including court work where required, preparing high-quality reports and evidence.
• Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with children, carers, and families to ensure effective support networks are in place.
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency professionals, including education, health, and housing, to provide holistic care and support.
• Ensure all case recording, care planning, and assessment documentation is accurate, timely, and reflective of best practice.
• Advocate for the rights and welfare of cared-for children, ensuring their needs remain at the centre of all planning and intervention.
• Contribute to team discussions, reflective practice sessions, and continuous service improvement initiatives.

About You

 
You are a skilled and committed social worker with a strong understanding of the needs of children in care. You bring empathy, resilience, and excellent communication skills to your practice, along with a passion for supporting young people to reach their potential. You are confident in managing complex cases, undertaking assessments, and working collaboratively with professionals and families to achieve positive outcomes.

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England.
• Experience working with children in care or within children’s social services.
• Strong understanding of the Children Act 1989, Care Planning Regulations, and statutory guidance for cared-for children.
• Excellent skills in care planning, assessment, and statutory case management.
• Ability to manage a diverse caseload and meet statutory timescales effectively.
• Experience of court work and preparing written evidence for legal proceedings is desirable.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills with children, carers, and multi-agency professionals.
• Commitment to promoting independence, inclusion, and positive outcomes for children and young people.
• Ability to work flexibly, including undertaking visits across the Cheshire East area.

Contract & Salary

• Job Type: Locum
• Location: Cheshire East Council
• Service Area: Children’s Services – Cared For Children Team
• Contract Length: 3 months (with potential for extension)
• Salary: Negotiable, dependent on experience
• Working Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week
• Working Pattern: Hybrid / Office-based as required

How to Apply

 
If you are an experienced and compassionate Social Worker dedicated to supporting children in care and helping them achieve lasting stability and independence, we’d love to hear from you.  
Please apply using the form on the page.