Children's Social Worker - Assessment Service

Austin Fraser; East Midlands, Leicester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job description

Company Overview: We are a leading social services agency committed to providing high-quality support and intervention to vulnerable children and families in our community. Our team is dedicated to conducting thorough assessments, identifying needs, and coordinating services to ensure the welfare and well-being of those we serve.

Position Overview: We are currently seeking an experienced and skilled Assessment Social Worker to join our team on a contract basis, offering competitive rates of up to £38 per hour. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in conducting comprehensive assessments of children and families, utilizing evidence-based tools and frameworks to inform decision-making and intervention planning.

Responsibilities:

1. Conduct thorough assessments of children and families referred to social services, gathering information from multiple sources to identify needs, strengths, risks, and protective factors.
2. Utilize evidence-based assessment tools and frameworks to evaluate the child's developmental, emotional, physical, and environmental needs, ensuring a holistic understanding of their circumstances.
3. Collaborate with children, families, and relevant professionals to gather information, develop rapport, and engage them in the assessment process, respecting their views and cultural backgrounds.
4. Analyze assessment findings and formulate clear and concise reports, including recommendations for intervention and support plans, in accordance with statutory requirements and organizational policies.
5. Liaise with external agencies, such as schools, healthcare providers, and law enforcement, to gather additional information and coordinate services to meet the identified needs of children and families effectively.
6. Provide expert advice and consultation to colleagues, including social work assistants, team managers, and other professionals, regarding assessment processes and best practices.
7. Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records, documentation, and electronic records, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and data protection requirements.
8. Participate in regular supervision, team meetings, and training sessions to enhance professional development and practice knowledge.

Requirements:

1. Qualified Social Worker with relevant professional registration (e.g., HCPC).
2. Proven experience conducting assessments of children and families within a social services or child welfare setting.
3. Strong assessment and analytical skills, with the ability to gather, analyze, and interpret complex information from diverse sources to inform decision-making and intervention planning.
4. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport, engage stakeholders, and communicate effectively with children, families, and professionals.
5. Sound knowledge of relevant legislation, policies, and procedures related to child protection, safeguarding, and assessment processes.
6. Ability to work autonomously and as part of a multidisciplinary team, demonstrating resilience, empathy, and professionalism in challenging situations.
7. Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced and demanding environment.
8. Valid driver's license and access to a vehicle for travel within the community (if required).

Benefits:

1. Competitive hourly rate of up to £38 per hour, paid on a weekly basis.
2. Flexible working hours and the opportunity to work remotely where possible.
3. Supportive team environment with regular supervision, training, and professional development opportunities.
4. Meaningful and rewarding work that makes a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families.