Locum Safeguarding Qualified Social Worker

Social Worker – Children’s Services

Location: London Borough of Havering

Contract Type: Locum / Temporary

Duration: 3 months

Salary: £negotiable

Start Date: ASAP

About the Role

The London Borough of Havering is seeking an experienced and passionate Social Worker to join our Children’s Services team on a 3-month interim contract. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a progressive, supportive, and forward-thinking London local authority that is committed to delivering outstanding outcomes for children, young people, and families.

As a Social Worker, you will be responsible for undertaking assessments, developing care plans, and working directly with children and families to provide timely, effective support. You will ensure that the child’s voice is central to all decision-making, helping to promote safety, stability, and positive change.

Main Responsibilities

 
• Undertake comprehensive assessments of children and families in accordance with statutory requirements and Havering’s local procedures.
   

• Develop, implement, and review Child in Need, Child Protection, and Care Plans that promote safety, wellbeing, and permanence.
   

• Manage a caseload of varying complexity, ensuring timely responses and proportionate interventions based on assessed risk and need.
   

• Work collaboratively with parents, carers, and multi-agency partners to provide coordinated, family-led support.
   

• Prepare clear, evidence-based reports for case conferences, court proceedings, and reviews.
   

• Ensure that the voice of the child informs all assessments, planning, and interventions.
   

• Promote a strengths-based, trauma-informed, and relationship-focused approach to practice.
   

• Maintain accurate, timely case records in line with statutory and local authority standards.

Requirements

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

• Registration: Registered with Social Work England.
   

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

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

• Strong communication, assessment, and analytical skills.
   

• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high-quality practice.
   

• Commitment to partnership working and continuous professional development.

Why Join?

Havering Council offers a supportive and collaborative working environment that values professional integrity, reflective practice, and innovation. You’ll be part of a dedicated Children’s Services team that focuses on early intervention, strong multi-agency collaboration, and positive, long-term outcomes for children and families.

This short-term opportunity provides the chance to use your experience and expertise to make a tangible difference to children’s lives while gaining valuable experience within a highly regarded London borough.

Interested? Apply today to join London Borough of Havering’s Children’s Services as a Social Worker and help create better futures for children, young people, and their families.