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Children’s Social Worker

Location: Gateshead Council

Contract Type: Locum / Temporary

Duration: 3 months

Salary: £negotiable

Start Date: ASAP

About the Role

Gateshead Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Children’s Social Worker to join our Children’s Social Care team on a 3-month interim basis. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a highly regarded local authority that is committed to improving outcomes for children, young people, and families through strong relationship-based and restorative practice.

As a Social Worker, you will be part of a dedicated and supportive team that provides high-quality services to children in need of protection, support, and care. You will manage a caseload of children and families, undertaking assessments and delivering effective, timely interventions to ensure safety, stability, and positive outcomes.

Main Responsibilities

 
• Undertake assessments of children and families in accordance with statutory requirements and local procedures.
   

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

• Work with children, young people, and families to build trusting relationships that support change and resilience.
   

• Ensure that all practice is child-centred and that the child’s voice informs every aspect of planning and decision-making.
   

• Collaborate effectively with colleagues, partner agencies, and community services to deliver coordinated and meaningful support.
   

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

• Manage a varied caseload, balancing risk and need to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
   

• Contribute to reflective supervision and support the continuous improvement of service delivery.

Requirements

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

• Registration: Registered with Social Work England.
   

• Post-qualifying experience in children’s social care, particularly in assessment, safeguarding, and care planning.
   

• Strong understanding of child protection legislation, frameworks, and best practice guidance.
   

• Excellent communication, assessment, and analytical skills.
   

• Ability to build positive working relationships with children, families, and multi-agency partners.
   

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

Why Join?

Gateshead Council is recognised for its commitment to high-quality social work and strong professional support. You’ll be joining a local authority rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted (2024), with a clear vision focused on helping children thrive and supporting families to stay together safely. The Council values reflective supervision, professional development, and a culture of collaboration and respect.

This 3-month opportunity offers the chance to use your skills and experience to make a genuine difference in the lives of children and young people across Gateshead.

Interested? Apply today to join Gateshead Council’s Children’s Services as a Social Worker and help create safer, stronger futures for children and families.