Social Worker / Senior Social Worker - West Sussex Council

Social Worker / Senior Social Worker – Assessment Service | West Sussex County Council

Salary: £44,844 – £57,775 per annum
Contract: Permanent / Full-Time
Working Model: Hybrid
Location: West Sussex

Key Highlights

  • Competitive salary range of £44,844 – £57,775 per annum
  • Opportunities available at Social Worker and Senior Social Worker levels
  • Manageable caseloads within a supportive Assessment Service
  • Hybrid working model to support work-life balance
  • Strong management oversight and reflective supervision
  • Clear career progression and professional development pathways

The Role

West Sussex County Council is recruiting Social Workers and Senior Social Workers to join its Assessment Service, working at the front door of children’s services. This is a fast-paced and rewarding role focused on completing timely, high-quality assessments to ensure children and families receive the right support at the right time.

You will work with children and families from initial referral through assessment, managing risk, identifying strengths, and making proportionate, well-informed decisions in line with statutory guidance.

About West Sussex County Council

West Sussex County Council is committed to delivering child-centred, strengths-based practice, with a strong focus on early intervention and effective safeguarding. The council invests heavily in its workforce, offering strong leadership, high-quality supervision, and a culture that promotes learning, collaboration, and staff wellbeing.

The Assessment Service is supported by experienced managers, clear pathways, and well-established multi-agency partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

  • Undertake statutory assessments following referrals
  • Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries where required
  • Identify risk, protective factors, and appropriate interventions
  • Undertake direct work with children and families during assessment
  • Make clear threshold and planning decisions in line with statutory guidance
  • Work collaboratively with partner agencies

  • Maintain high-quality, timely case recording and reporting

Candidate Requirements

  • Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
  • Experience within Assessment, Referral & Assessment, or Front Door services
  • Strong assessment, analytical, and decision-making skills
  • Ability to manage risk and complex safeguarding concerns
  • Confident working in a fast-paced statutory environment
  • For Senior Social Worker roles: ability to support and mentor less experienced staff

Why Work With Us

  • Salary of £44,844 – £57,775 per annum depending on experience and grade
  • Hybrid working arrangements
  • Regular reflective supervision and strong management support
  • Excellent training, CPD, and leadership development opportunities
  • Clear progression routes across children’s services
  • Supportive, collaborative working culture

Interested?

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Josh Dhumisani
Mobile: 07902 371315 Email: jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com