Children's Social Worker - LAC

Job Description:

Position Overview: We are currently seeking a passionate and experienced Looked After Children Social Worker to join our team. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by children in care and will be dedicated to advocating for their best interests. This role involves working closely with children, families, and other professionals to ensure that every child receives the support and care they need to reach their full potential.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough assessments of children's needs and develop personalized care plans in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
• Provide direct support and intervention to children in care, addressing their emotional, physical, and developmental needs.
• Advocate for children's rights and represent their interests in meetings, court proceedings, and other settings.
• Work collaboratively with foster carers, adoptive families, and residential care staff to ensure continuity of care and support.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of case progress, assessments, and interventions in accordance with regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with external agencies, such as schools, healthcare providers, and mental health services, to coordinate holistic support for children in care.
• Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and training sessions to enhance professional development and knowledge sharing.
• Adhere to legal and ethical guidelines in all aspects of practice, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and policies.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work or a related field.
• Registration with the relevant regulatory body (e.g., HCPC) as a qualified social worker.
• Proven experience working with looked after children and their families, preferably within a social services or child welfare setting.
• Strong knowledge of child development, attachment theory, trauma-informed practice, and safeguarding principles.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and establish trusting relationships with children and families from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team and collaborate with colleagues and external partners.
• Resilience, empathy, and a commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of children in care.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and handle complex and challenging situations with professionalism and sensitivity.
• Valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle for travel within the community.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment with opportunities for growth and advancement.
• Meaningful work that makes a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families.

Randstad Care acts as an employment business when supplying temporary staff and as an employment agency when introducing candidates for permanent employment with a client. Randstad Care is an equal opportunities employer and decisions are made on merits alone.

Did you know that Randstad Care have been awarded a place on the National Clinical Staffing Framework for the NHS? This means we will be able to bring you more opportunities within nursing & midwifery and clinical staffing.