Senior Social Worker - Assessment Team

Senior Social Worker – Assessment Team
London Borough of Merton

Pay Rate: £39.04 per hour
Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract: Locum
Office Requirement: 3 days per week

About the Role

Merton Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Assessment Team on a locum basis. You’ll take a lead role in delivering timely, high-quality assessments for children and families, ensuring robust decision-making and a strong safeguarding focus.

This is a frontline role where you will handle complex assessments, support social workers within the team, and contribute to a consistent, child-centred practice approach across the service.

Key Responsibilities

  • Complete high-quality Child & Family Assessments within statutory timeframes.
  • Lead on complex safeguarding cases, including S47 enquiries.
  • Provide professional oversight, guidance, and mentoring for social workers.
  • Prepare analytical, evidence-based reports for panels, court, and senior managers.
  • Undertake direct work with children and families to ensure their voices are central to planning.
  • Work collaboratively with partner agencies to support safety, stability, and positive outcomes.
  • Support the team manager in maintaining a strong practice culture.

Practice Model Used by Merton

Merton operates a Strengths-Based, Relationship-Focused Practice Model, emphasising collaborative, restorative work with families. The model prioritises:

  • building trust with children and carers
  • empowering families to create sustainable change
  • reflective, analytical practice
  • multi-agency partnership working

This approach underpins all assessment and safeguarding decisions across the borough.

Why Merton Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Merton is one of Southwest London’s most sought-after boroughs — a perfect blend of city convenience and neighbourhood charm. It offers:

  • Excellent transport links via the Northern Line, District Line, Thameslink, and national rail.
  • Green, peaceful areas such as Wimbledon Common and Morden Hall Park.
  • A strong sense of community and family-friendly environment.
  • A stable, well-managed Children’s Services department with supportive leadership.
  • Great local amenities, restaurants, and vibrant areas like Wimbledon town centre.

Whether you’re commuting in or living locally, Merton provides a safe, welcoming, and well-connected base for social work practice.